By Dayo Johnson, Akure

AKURE — Ondo State’s hospitality sector has taken a step towards technology-driven accommodation with the launch of CarpeDiem Smart Luxury Apartment in Akure, described as the first smart-home accommodation in the state.

For years, Akure has been home to several apartments and shortlet facilities, but industry observers say CarpeDiem is setting a new benchmark by combining luxury accommodation with smart-home technology.

Unveiling the facility to journalists, the Managing Director, Omotosho Oluwaseun Stephen, said CarpeDiem was conceived as a premium accommodation where luxury was not only seen but experienced.

“Guests are not simply checking into a room. They are stepping into a carefully designed environment where technology, comfort and aesthetics work together,” he said.

“We wanted to create something that Akure has not seen before, something that does not imitate luxury from elsewhere, but defines its own standard.”

CarpeDiem combines luxury hospitality, technology and real estate, with smart-home automation integrated into the accommodation.

Key features include voice-controlled interactions powered by Amazon Alexa, intelligent lighting systems, connected entertainment and other automated comfort settings designed to enhance the guest experience.

The launch comes amid growing demand for private, technology-enabled and premium accommodation among business travellers, young professionals and leisure tourists visiting Ondo State.

Hospitality experts said the facility’s entry signalled a shift in Akure’s tourism sector, demonstrating the city’s potential to offer luxury accommodation while retaining a local identity.

Designed for modern travellers, the apartment offers contemporary interior design, premium entertainment systems, privacy and curated guest services.

With the development, Akure joins the growing number of Nigerian cities embracing smart tourism infrastructure, a trend expected to boost business tourism and leisure travel to Ondo State.