NANTA Embraces Digital Era, Targets Illegal Ticket Sales
The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) has unveiled a suite of digital tools aimed at modernizing operations and enhancing member services. The launch of a revamped website, mobile app, and relaunched identification card took center stage at NANTA’s 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, signaling the association’s commitment to embracing the digital future.
This digital transformation is a significant step for African travel professionals, providing a more user-friendly platform for stakeholders and the public. The mobile app offers convenient access to NANTA resources, while the updated website provides a streamlined interface for information and services. The new identification cards enhance security and reinforce members' professional credentials, fostering trust and transparency within the industry.
The AGM, themed “Collective Prosperity Through Market Protection,” drew a massive turnout of travel agents, aviation and tourism sector leaders, and government representatives, including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo. This high-profile gathering underscored the importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships in driving the growth of the African travel industry.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, a critical issue took center stage: cross-border ticket trading. NANTA President Yinka Folami expressed serious concerns about this illicit practice, which involves international travel agents selling flight tickets originating from Nigeria while retaining profits outside the country. This illegal trade has eroded an estimated 40% of the Nigerian travel market, resulting in substantial capital flight and undermining national data protection policies and regulatory frameworks.
NANTA is taking decisive action, investigating five international travel agencies suspected of involvement in this economic sabotage. The association has vowed to pursue prosecution for those found guilty, sending a strong message about its commitment to market integrity and the protection of Nigerian travel businesses. This proactive stance reinforces NANTA’s role as a champion for its members and a guardian of the Nigerian travel market.
Mr. Folami cautioned Nigerian travel agents against colluding with international counterparts in these illegal activities, emphasizing the severe consequences, including potential legal action. This firm stance underscores NANTA’s dedication to ethical conduct and its commitment to fostering a sustainable and thriving travel industry in Nigeria.
Minister Keyamo, represented by FAAN Director of Special Duties Henry Agbebire, commended NANTA’s efforts to uphold market integrity and protect legitimate travel agents. He reiterated the Ministry’s support for initiatives that strengthen industry standards and foster public confidence in Nigeria’s air travel sector. This government backing provides crucial support for NANTA’s initiatives and reinforces the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving the growth of the African travel industry.
A keynote address by Prof. ‘Kemi Pinheiro, focused on “Building a Legally Grounded, Ethically Driven, and Globally Respected Association,” highlighted the importance of a robust legal and ethical framework for NANTA. He urged a comprehensive review of the association’s constitution, emphasizing the need for strong governance principles and high ethical standards to elevate NANTA’s stature on the global stage. This focus on legal and ethical foundations reinforces NANTA’s commitment to professionalism and its aspiration to become a leading voice in the international travel and tourism arena.
NANTA’s digital transformation, coupled with its decisive action against illegal ticket sales and strong government support, positions the association as a driving force in the African travel industry. By embracing technology, upholding ethical practices, and collaborating with key stakeholders, NANTA is creating a more robust, transparent, and sustainable travel market in Nigeria, setting a positive example for other African nations to follow.
