Nigeria’s travel industry is grappling with a deep structural crisis, which continues to put travellers at risk of fraud, visa denials, and significant financial losses, according to Elisha Olorunda, Chief Executive Officer of RE360 Agent Development Limited. Speaking on the state of the sector, Olorunda highlighted that the absence of a structured, professional travel consulting system has eroded the country’s competitiveness on the global stage and tarnished its international reputation.
Olorunda explained that the travel industry in Nigeria remains largely informal, with minimal regulatory oversight. “Too many untrained and uncertified individuals are operating as travel agents”. This lack of professional standards has created an environment where Nigerian travelers are vulnerable to scams, misinformation, and exploitation. He emphasized that the consequences are not only financial; they also affect the country’s credibility in the eyes of international institutions, airlines, and global partners.
The travel expert stressed that Nigeria’s current approach to travel consulting is insufficient to meet the demands of a growing number of travelers seeking global opportunities. Without professional standards and ethical practices, travelers are often misled into paying inflated fees, applying for the wrong visas, or being denied travel opportunities altogether. He noted that a structured and regulated framework for travel consultancy is essential to restore trust and ensure safety for Nigerians venturing abroad.
Olorunda also highlighted the need for capacity development within the industry. He called for systematic training, certification programs, and the establishment of industry wide ethical guidelines that would professionalize travel services and equip agents to handle complex travel requirements. Structured travel consulting is no longer optional, it is a strategic necessity, he said. “Investing in professional standards will protect Nigerian travelers, enhance our global reputation, and open doors to economic and educational opportunities abroad.”
The CEO further noted that governments, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies must collaborate to create a framework that ensures accountability and transparency in the travel sector. He warned that failure to implement these measures could continue to expose Nigerian travellers to fraud and compromise the country’s position in the global travel and tourism market.
Olorunda urged the travel industry to prioritize professionalism, capacity building, and ethical practices, arguing that these reforms are critical for safeguarding travelers, boosting Nigeria’s international image, and strengthening the country’s competitiveness in the global travel ecosystem.