The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has called on hotel managers and key stakeholders across Africa to adopt global best practices and embrace strategic partnerships as a way to drive sustainable growth in the continent’s hospitality industry.
Benson-Awoyinka made this call on Saturday, June 28, while speaking as Chief Host at the 2025 Hotel Managers Conference Africa, held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island. She described the two-day event as a vital platform for exchanging ideas, spotting trends, and building networks to improve the sector’s resilience and global 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 conference, themed “Synergising for Sustainable Growth Through Global Best Practices,” features panel discussions on sustainability, integration of global standards, and tech-driven guest experiences. It also includes a masterclass focused on promoting a learning culture within hotel operations.
Highlighting the economic impact of tourism and hospitality on Lagos State, the Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure, improving security, and building capacity through targeted development programmes.
“We are intentional about building a vibrant ecosystem where hotel businesses can flourish and set benchmarks for excellence, not just in Nigeria but across Africa,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.
She encouraged industry players to make the most of existing government initiatives, urging collaboration to position Lagos as a top destination for business and leisure.
“Let us work together to chart a path that ensures sustainable growth, resilience, and global competitiveness for our hospitality industry,” she added, noting that the state remains committed to creating an enabling environment for tourists and investors.
Also speaking at the event, the convener of the conference and Vice President of the Hotel Managers School, Mr. Olugbenga Sunday, challenged hotel managers to turn sector challenges into success stories by delivering excellent guest experiences.
He stressed that African hotels are increasingly being judged by the same standards as global brands. “Our guests have seen the best in Dubai, London, and Singapore. They expect the same level of excellence here in Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, and Johannesburg,” Sunday noted.
He urged managers to work together, not as competitors but as collaborators, sharing ideas and innovations to raise the industry standard continent-wide.
The 2025 Hotel Managers Conference Africa drew hotel executives, industry experts, and investors from across the continent, all committed to shaping the future of African hospitality.
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