Individuals and organizations involved in the hotel and service sector have advocated for a more organized and enhanced framework aimed at drawing in international investments, generating employment opportunities, and enhancing the nation's economic supply chain.
At the sixth edition of the Hotel Expo Nigeria, which took place in Lagos from September 29 to 30, Jonathan Hanson, the founder and organizer, stated that the hospitality sector could boost economic development if companies collaborated effectively within the hospitality network.
Hanson stated to The PUNCH that obstacles like double taxation, weak personnel culture, and insufficient application of technology still hinder the industry.
"The result of the large number of individuals who believe the hospitality sector is solely about generating profit is that, upon arrival, it doesn't function as expected. The quality of service declines. As a result, the hospitality industry is seen as one where people lack genuine care. It is no longer considered significant," he cautioned.
Hanson emphasized that without appropriate frameworks, incidents such as 'Detty December,' which currently attract significant visitor numbers and foreign direct investment, might lose their effectiveness.
"If there isn't a well-organized and enhanced welcoming environment for visitors, the sector will collapse. However, if it is strengthened, income will increase and employment opportunities will arise," he added.
The founder of HEN stated that he designed the exhibition to unite professionals from hotels, travel, design, interior decoration, technology, food, entertainment, and related industries. He praised the hospitality sector as essential, noting, "Nevertheless, it remains the largest employer of labor."
"Hotel Expo Nigeria is the initial networking, sales, and conference event in the hospitality sector within West Africa. We are gathering a community of hospitality professionals to explore business opportunities, connect, and boost sales," Hanson explained.
A co-organizer of the event, Michael Yanai, expressed comparable opinions regarding the hospitality sector. He commended Nigeria's population and cultural energy for positioning hospitality as a key growth factor when nurtured under an effective structure.
"There is no hotel without transportation, no hotel without food, entertainment, or healthcare. Hospitality constitutes a value chain, and Nigeria can adopt the organized systems observed in Dubai and London," he stated.
Yanai highlighted the importance of education, self-control, and personal development to enhance the workforce. He proposed that young individuals should engage with volunteer programs that foster honesty and assist them in adjusting to a professional environment from an early stage.
"Hosting is extremely demanding. If we support each other, and if we develop character and self-control, the sector will offer a viable profession for numerous Nigerians," he stated.
In the meantime, one of the exhibitors and panelists, Francis Ogosi, the Hospitality Director at Glocient Hospitality, part of Cavista Holdings, referred to the expo as one of the top three significant industry events in the nation, noting that such platforms help tackle structural shortcomings.
"In the UAE, more than a hundred hospitality conferences are held each year. The greater the number of stakeholders who gather, the more problems get addressed. That is why HEN plays a vital role," Ogosi stated.
He identified insecurity, inflation, and excessive taxation as key challenges hindering investment in the industry, although he pointed out that the government had implemented some forward-thinking tax policies to promote development.
Ogosi mentioned that standardization is still essential for Nigeria to be competitive on the global stage. "We should stop using terms like 'luxurious' when we don't have luxury hotels. We need more premium brands. That's why chains like Marriott are making an impact," he stated.
Ogosi stated that Glocient Hospitality is already funding resorts like the Ikogosi Warm Springs to demonstrate the sector's ability to generate employment and draw in investors.
The investors recognized that Nigeria's tourism industry, if effectively organized, has the potential to be a major contributor to GDP and also provide job opportunities for the nation's expanding young workforce.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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