THE IMPERATIVE OF REGULATING PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

A QUALITATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This qualitative review explores the imperative of regulating professional practices in Nigeria's hospitality industry, with a particular focus on sustainability. The study integrates Sustainability Theory and Institutional Theory to analyze existing regulatory frameworks and their impact on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study identifies key themes, including the fragmented nature of current regulations, the limited adoption of sustainable practices, and the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in enhancing sustainability. Comparative case studies from Australia, Costa Rica, and the Netherlands are presented to illustrate successful regulatory practices that could be adapted to the Nigerian context. The findings suggest that Nigeria's hospitality industry requires a centralized regulatory authority, mandatory sustainability certifications, and stronger public-private partnerships to foster sustainability. The study also highlights the importance of technological innovation and stakeholder engagement in driving regulatory compliance. While the review provides valuable insights, it acknowledges limitations related to the reliance on secondary data and the focus on the Nigerian context. The study concludes with policy recommendations for enhancing sustainability in Nigeria’s hospitality industry and suggests areas for future research, including primary data collection and comparative studies across different regions. This review contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of how regulatory frameworks can be effectively designed to promote sustainability in the hospitality sector.