The former governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, on December 6, 2019, led the world to Ogun State capital to commission a 5 star hotel.
Yemi Osinbajo, the vice president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who was among the important guests, said that the location of Conference Hotel and Suites in Abeokuta would attract international conferences organisers desirous of serenity and tourism potentials.
“Indeed, many tourist sites are here in Ogun State including the Olumo Rock, all of the places we have around us today; I don’t want to go through the long list, the Presidential Library and Wole Soyinka Foundation Writers Retreat, and so many other tourist attractions.
“I doubt whether there is a need today to make a business or economic case for tourism.
“In fact, in the new world order, culture and tourism are not merely economic gold mines; they are often referred to as the soft power. In the years ahead, there is no doubt that tourism will increasingly become the driver of the economic well-being and job-creator.
“According to the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), tourism and hospitality industry in Africa as a whole has a potential of 203.7 billion dollars, out of which only 50 billion dollars is developed due to poor infrastructure.
“UNWTO projects that international tourist arrivals to Africa in 2020 will be 77.3 million, representing annual growth rate of 5.5 per cent.’’
On his part, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, thanked Osinbajo for gracing the occasion.
He also congratulated the proprietor, Gbenga Daniel, for the successful completion of the project.
Abiodun said he was delighted to note that each time the vice president came to his home state, it was always for a positive landmark, progress and development of the state and the nation at large.
“The last time you came was to turn the sod at Kajola where we are meant to have a workshop for trains that will be going from Ibadan to Lagos.
“ I wish to particularly congratulate the vice president for the completion of this facility; as our state continues to rise in the ladder as an industrial economy, as we continue to expand our economy base being the overflow of the fifth largest economy in Africa, more people will be coming to the state.
“Therefore, there will be need for comfort; that itself justifies a facility like this.
“On one hand, this beautiful facility will contribute in no small measure towards providing a conducive and standard hospitality to our guests, and even most of us residing in the state who needs a home away from home,’’ he said.
He said the strategic location of the facility would not only add to the aesthetics of the area but would significantly contribute to employment generation initiatives of the state government.
In a remark, Daniel said that he was overwhelmed by the strength and quality of turnout at the ceremony.
The former governor of Ogun State said the project was a contribution towards the growth of the tourism industry.
