By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Director-General National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, NIHOTOUR, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, has said despite Nigeria’s challenges, there is tangible progress being made by the present administration of President Bola Tinubu.”

Fagade stated this yesterday, at the unveiling of a newly renovated and upgraded Lagos Zonal Office of NIHOTOUR, marking a significant step in its commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The commissioning attracted an array of stakeholders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the industry, underscoring the strategic importance of the institute in national development.

Speaking Fagade, expressed deep satisfaction with the transformation of the facility, recalling its poor state at the time he assumed office.

Acknowledging the funding challenges under the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he commended Tinubu for his ongoing efforts to make resources available, despite economic constraints.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda has been challenging, particularly in terms of funding, but President Bola Tinubu is doing all he can. Despite these constraints, we were able to complete this renovation project, and I’m proud of what we have achieved.”

Fagade, also stressed the importance of recognizing incremental progress, saying, “Some may wonder why we are celebrating this, but I always tell people, if you don’t celebrate the little wins, you won’t be ready for the big ones. This renovation is a starting point, and there is more to come. This event is also a way to draw national attention to the tourism sector—to show that despite the country’s challenges, we are making tangible progress.

“The renovation forms part of NIHOTOUR’s broader strategic plan to reposition hospitality and tourism training in Nigeria. With the upgraded Lagos facility, NIHOTOUR is now better equipped to train world-class professionals and contribute more significantly to the growth and development of Nigeria’s tourism industry,” Fagade reassured.

Among the dignitaries present was the Oba of Odi-Olowo Kingdom, Olamide Ayinde, who praised the initiative and the Director-General’s leadership.

Also, Ganiyu Bakare, the Aro Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom, highlighted the role of institutions like NIHOTOUR in driving tourism development.