Tinubu inaugurates remodeled Premier Hotel in Ibadan

President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the newly remodeled Premier Hotel in Ibadan, Oyo State, hailing it as a landmark project that reaffirms the city's commercial and cultural significance. Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the President described the hotel's redevelopment as a moment of pride for the six South-West states that collectively own the facility through the Odu’a Investment Company Limited.

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Today, what we are experiencing is a true national icon, celebrating not just the reopening of a hotel, but the restoration.

Tinubu emphasized that the transformation of the iconic hotel demonstrates that heritage sites can be preserved and renewed to meet contemporary needs. He likened the project to the rebirth of other national assets, suggesting that Nigeria's past can serve as a foundation for a stronger future. The President paid tribute to the visionary leaders of the old Western Region for establishing enduring institutions and assets, noting their foresight in long-term thinking and strategic investment.

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The transformation and modernisation of this facility remind us that heritage should not be abandoned to the passage of time. Rather, it should be preserved, renewed, and adapted to meet contemporary realities.

He commended successive boards and management of Odu’a Investment Company for preserving this legacy, highlighting that Nigerians possess the capability to build institutions that endure. The President specifically appreciated the governors of Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo states for their commitment to repositioning Odu’a Investment Company. He stated that their synergy and regional cooperation exemplify what can be achieved when governments collaborate to leverage strengths and foster enterprise.

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Their stewardship demonstrates that Nigerians possess the capacity and capability to build institutions that endure and remain relevant across generations.

Highlighting the global growth of the hospitality and tourism industry, Tinubu linked this sector's potential in Nigeria to the country's large population and economy. He affirmed that hospitality and tourism are central to the "Renewed Hope Agenda's" diversification policy, aiming to attract tourists and investors, drive economic growth, create jobs, earn foreign exchange, and promote urban renewal. The President concluded by noting Nigeria's vast tourism potential and the opportunities for growth within the sector.

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The success we celebrate today is powerful evidence of what can happen when governments synergise, leverage regional strengths, and create an enabling environment for enterprise to thrive.