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Ashimolowo, Fagbenro call for stronger Diaspora investment

Ashimolowo, Fagbenro call for stronger Diaspora investment

.As Treal Hotels and Suites opens

By Adesina Wahab

Calls for stronger diaspora engagement and increased private sector investment dominated discussions at the commissioning of Treal Hotels and Suites in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, stressed the need for Nigerians in the Diaspora to actively contribute to national development through investment, expertise, and global exposure.

He said projects such as the newly-commissioned hotel demonstrate confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential and underscore the importance of private sector participation in shaping the country’s future.

According to him, collaboration between citizens at home and abroad remains essential to improving Nigeria’s development narrative.

On his part, the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, described Ogun State as one of Nigeria’s most viable investment destinations, citing its expanding infrastructure base, strategic location, and improving business climate.

He commended the promoter of the project, UK-based Nigerian entrepreneur Mr. Adebayo Fagbenro, for returning home to invest in the state, describing it as a strong expression of confidence in Ogun’s economic outlook. He assured that the state government would continue to provide an enabling environment for investors, particularly people in the Diaspora.

In a royal remark, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, described the project as a significant addition to Abeokuta’s growing hospitality and tourism landscape. He noted that the city continues to witness steady inflows of private investments, which are strengthening its economic base and cultural profile.

Lending his voice to the discussion, the Chairman of the APC Local Government Chairmen in Nigeria, Hon. Henry Fagbenro, said the investment would further boost Ogun State’s tourism profile and contribute to economic growth. He also echoed earlier sentiments on rising investor confidence in the state’s stability and policy environment.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Treal Hotels and Suites, Mr. Adebayo Fagbenro, said the project was inspired by his international exposure and a desire to elevate hospitality standards in Nigeria. He explained that the facility was designed to bridge identified gaps in service delivery and align with global best practices.

He added that the investment would contribute to job creation, tourism development, and broader economic diversification.

Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the hotel, Mrs. Adejoke Fagbenro, reaffirmed the management’s commitment to professionalism, quality service, and sustainable growth in the hospitality sector.

The General Manager, Mr. Nuhu Onoja, expressed confidence in the team’s capacity to deliver world-class hospitality services, noting that the facility is well positioned to compete favourably in the industry.

The commissioning concluded with goodwill messages from stakeholders across government, traditional institutions, and the private sector, all highlighting the importance of sustained investment in Nigeria’s hospitality industry.