The Nigeria Hotel Association (NHA) has called on the federal, state, and local governments to provide financial grants to hotel operators across the country. The appeal comes as the hospitality industry grapples with mounting debt, operational challenges, and repeated demands from revenue agencies.
At a press briefing in Bauchi, NHA National President, His Highness Eze Dr. Patrick Anyanwu, emphasized the vital role hotels play in Nigeria’s economic landscape, including employment generation, tourism development, and national revenue growth.
Dr. Anyanwu, reflecting on resolutions from the NHA’s recent delegates’ meeting in Lagos, stressed the urgent need for government-backed support. Many hotel owners, he said, had taken loans from financial institutions to expand or sustain their businesses and are now struggling under the weight of repayments compounded by excessive tax demands.
“We are calling on the government to support us with grants,” he stated. “We are among the top contributors to national revenue and one of the largest private-sector employers—yet we operate without adequate government backing.”
The NHA President pointed out that while Nigeria lacks sufficient government-owned hotels to serve the growing number of international and local guests, private hotel owners have filled the gap by welcoming travelers, business professionals, and tourists from around the globe.
He also decried the pressure placed on hoteliers by multiple revenue collection agencies, arguing that such demands strain operations already weighed down by bank loans and maintenance costs. According to him, if hotel businesses collapse, it would displace thousands of workers—most of whom are young people—leaving a dangerous gap in employment and national stability.
“We deserve to be supported. After state governments, hotels are the biggest revenue sources and major employers. We’re sustaining many Nigerian youths who would otherwise be jobless.”
Highlighting the need for constant upgrades to remain competitive, Dr. Anyanwu noted that many hotels built decades ago must be renovated to meet modern standards. Without upgrades, guests might have unpleasant experiences, damaging the country’s reputation.
He urged government officials involved in revenue collection to collaborate with the NHA to better understand the realities faced by hotel businesses across different regions. “Revenue collection should not be aggressive or arbitrary,” he advised. “Dialogue and understanding are essential.”
Dr. Anyanwu also emphasized the importance of registration and active participation in the NHA. He encouraged hotel owners—especially prominent ones who have remained outside the association—to register and contribute to strengthening the industry.
“Every hotel operator should belong to the NHA. We hold meetings to share insights, address member concerns, and ensure standards are maintained. We defend our members when necessary and hold them accountable when required.”
The NHA President concluded by calling for consistent membership registration, prompt payment of dues, and greater unity within the industry, as the association continues to advocate for a more favorable business environment for Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
