By Adesina Wahab

Government has been urged to intensify investment in tourism, culture and the hospitality industry as alternative sources of revenue generation capable of boosting Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and creating sustainable employment opportunities for citizens.

The call was made ahead of the official inauguration of Treal Hotels and Suites, a new luxury hospitality facility located at Sobo Sowemimo Crescent, Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA), Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The formal inauguration is scheduled for Thursday, with dignitaries from different parts of the country expected at the event.

In a statement by DAL Strategic Communications, the Chairman of Treal Hotels and Suites, Mr. Adebayo Fagbenro, was quoted as saying that Nigeria, particularly Ogun State, is richly blessed with enormous tourism potential and cultural heritage sites that could attract both local and international visitors if properly developed and promoted.

According to him, “The era of over-dependence on oil revenue is gradually fading. Tourism and hospitality remain viable sectors capable of creating jobs, stimulating economic growth and improving the nation’s revenue base. Government must begin to see the sector as a strategic economic driver.”

Fagbenro explained that the establishment of the hotel was inspired by years of global exposure and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of his home country after spending decades abroad. He described the project as a vision conceived as far back as 2002 and gradually nurtured into reality through dedication and support from family members and associates.

He further disclosed that Treal Hotels and Suites was established to bridge existing gaps in the hospitality sector by offering modern facilities and quality services at competitive rates.

According to him, the boutique hotel features 30 luxury rooms spread across two floors, equipped with modern furniture, flat-screen televisions, high-speed internet services, air conditioning systems, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, as well as premium relaxation amenities including Jacuzzi systems, massage sofas, exercise bikes, a modern swimming pool, and fully equipped gym facilities.

The Vice Chairman of the hotel, Mrs. Adejoke Fagbenro, appreciated stakeholders and supporters for their encouragement towards the successful completion of the project, noting that the vision behind the establishment was to create a world-class hospitality facility capable of delivering exceptional value and quality services to guests within and outside Ogun State.

She added that the management team, alongside other experienced professionals overseeing operations within the organisation, remains committed to maintaining high standards in hospitality service delivery, assuring prospective clients of comfort, professionalism, and customer satisfaction.

The General Manager of the hotel, Mr. Nuhu Onoja, stressed the importance of improved accommodation and tourism infrastructure in strengthening the sector’s contribution to the economy, noting that Treal Hotel and Suites was designed not only to provide comfort for guests but also to elevate hospitality standards within Ogun State and beyond.

He said, “We have come to transform the hospitality landscape in Abeokuta and its environs. Our goal is to provide top-quality services while creating employment opportunities for young people. We currently have a formidable workforce carefully selected and trained to deliver excellent customer service.”

Onoja further disclosed that the management has plans to expand the brand across different parts of the country, adding that staff welfare and professionalism remain major priorities of the organisation, while describing the serene environment and facilities as key selling points.

In his remarks, the elder brother of the Chairman, who is also a notable politician, Honourable Henry Fagbenro, expressed joy over the successful completion of the project, noting that he had long encouraged his brother to establish a business venture back home despite spending many years abroad.

He said, “No matter how long one stays abroad, there is no place like home,” adding that the establishment of the hotel would provide quality hospitality services and create employment opportunities for many youths within the state.

The grand opening ceremony of Treal Hotels and Suites is expected to attract prominent personalities, including Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; renowned cleric, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo; traditional rulers; government officials; and key stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industry across the country.

Industry observers believe the establishment of the hotel further reflects growing private sector participation in Ogun State’s tourism and hospitality sector, which many experts have identified as a critical component of economic diversification and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Adebayo Fagbenro is a chartered accountant with over 25 years of experience in the financial service sector. He is a graduate of accounting and a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria among others.