..five global players under investigation for Illegal Ticket Sales
….embraces digital future with new platforms
The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, NANTA, has relaunched its identification card, revamped website and launch of a mobile App at the recent 49th Annual General Meeting, AGM in Lagos.
These initiatives are aimed at modernizing the association’s operational tools, improving member identification and security, and providing a more user-friendly platform for stakeholders and the public to engage with NANTA.
The turnout was massive, travel agents from across the country and abroad showed up, and so did key players from the aviation and tourism sectors, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo and representatives from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria FAAN.
But beyond the fanfare, one issue stood out, cross-border trading.
NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, addressed the critical issue under the theme: “Collective Prosperity Through Market Protection.”
He expressed deep concern over the significant erosion of the Nigerian travel market, stating that an estimated 40% has been commandeered by this form of trade, which he unequivocally declared illegal and detrimental to the industry’s growth and overall economic well-being.
Mr. Folami elaborated on the nature of this illicit practice, explaining that cross-border trading in this context involves international travel agents selling flight tickets originating from Nigeria, with the financial gains from these sales being retained outside the country.
He highlighted the far-reaching negative consequences of such activities, including substantial capital flight, the deliberate bypassing of Nigeria’s data protection policies, and the undermining of the nation’s financial and regulatory frameworks.
The NANTA President issued a strong caution to Nigerian travel agents who might be collaborating with their international counterparts in this economic sabotage.
He announced, “Five global players were fingered in the West Africa counties and they are going through investigation for prosecution and these companies also operate in Nigeria and they are some of our prime suspects”.
The NANTA President affirmed that any such collusion would be thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty would face severe sanctions, including being handed over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for prosecution.
Folami said, the AGM stressed NANTA’s commitment to fostering a healthy and sustainable travel industry in Nigeria by actively combating illegal practices, promoting ethical conduct, and collaborating with government agencies to create a conducive business environment for its members.
He added that, the strong stance against cross-border trading signals a renewed determination to protect the Nigerian market and ensure that the benefits of the travel sector primarily accrue to the nation.
The government’s stance on the matter was conveyed through a goodwill message from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
Represented by the Director of Special Duties at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Henry Agbebire, the Minister commended NANTA’s commitment to market integrity.
He reiterated the Ministry’s support for efforts aimed at upholding industry standards, protecting legitimate players, and fostering public confidence in Nigeria’s air travel sector.
He acknowledged travel agencies as vital links in the aviation ecosystem and pledged to ensure an enabling environment for their operations to flourish.
“The Ministry recognizes the pivotal role of travel agencies as critical partners in the air travel value chain. We are fully committed to creating an enabling environment where your operations can thrive, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Nigerian aviation industry.”
Further emphasizing the need for a robust and ethical foundation for the association, Prof. ‘Kemi Pinheiro delivered a keynote address centered on the theme: “Building a Legally Grounded, Ethically Driven, and Globally Respected Association.”
Prof. Pinheiro urged NANTA to undertake a comprehensive review of its constitution.
He posited that by establishing a sound legal framework, coupled with strong governance principles, the adoption of high ethical standards, and a unified collective resolve, NANTA has the potential to evolve beyond being merely a national entity to becoming a globally respected leader in the dynamic fields of travel and tourism.
