Lagos Commissioner Tasks Hotel Managers on Global Best Practices at African Hospitality Conference

 Lagos Commissioner Tasks Hotel Managers on Global Best Practices at African Hospitality Conference

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has urged hotel managers and hospitality stakeholders across Africa to adopt global best practices and foster strategic partnerships to ensure the sustainable growth of the industry.

She made the call on Saturday, June 28, while delivering her keynote address as Chief Host at the 2025 Hotel Managers Conference Africa, held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.

According to Benson-Awoyinka, the annual conference provides a vital platform for industry players to exchange ideas, identify emerging trends, and build networks that enhance the sector’s resilience and competitiveness.

“This gathering is dedicated to continuous learning, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry in Africa and beyond,” she said.

The two-day event, themed “Synergising for Sustainable Growth Through Global Best Practices,” featured panel discussions on sustainability, integration of global standards, and the use of technology to enhance guest experience. A specialised masterclass also addressed the importance of cultivating a learning culture within hotel operations.

The Commissioner highlighted the critical role of the hospitality and tourism sectors in Lagos State’s economic development, job creation, and international image. She reiterated the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to investing in infrastructure, security, and training programmes to further strengthen the industry.

“We are intentional about creating a thriving ecosystem where hotel businesses can flourish and set standards of excellence — not just within Nigeria but across the African continent,” she said.

Benson-Awoyinka called on stakeholders to take full advantage of government initiatives and work collaboratively to position Lagos as a premier destination for both business and leisure. She urged delegates to contribute actively to discussions and forge lasting partnerships that would improve service delivery and elevate guest experiences.

“Let us work together to chart a path that ensures sustainable growth, resilience, and global competitiveness for our hospitality industry,” she added.

The convener of the conference and Vice President of the Hotel Managers School, Mr. Olugbenga Sunday, also addressed the gathering, challenging hotel managers to transform the sector’s challenges into opportunities for excellence.

“Our guests are experienced travellers — they’ve stayed in Dubai, London, and Singapore. When they come to Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, or Johannesburg, they expect the same level of quality,” Sunday noted.

He encouraged managers to collaborate rather than compete, stressing that innovation, knowledge-sharing, and unity would be key to building a world-class African hospitality sector.

The conference drew participants from across the continent, including hotel executives, investors, and industry experts, all committed to raising service standards and redefining African hospitality.

— Adeoti Sobowale
Deputy Director, Public Affairs
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
June 30, 2025.