Nigeria’s push for sustainable development through collaboration took the spotlight on April 15 as industry leaders, policymakers, and investors converged in Ado Ekiti for the Distinguished Guest Lecture (DGL) 2026, where the transformation of the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort stood out as a compelling example of public-private partnership (PPP) success.
Held at the BJC Event Center along Afe Babalola Way, the summit themed “Public Private Partnership for Sustainable Development – Stakeholders’ Engagement” drew participants from across sectors, including business executives, development partners, and students, all exploring how stronger collaboration between government and private institutions can drive inclusive growth.
In a press statement signed by the senior communication specialist, Ikogosi Warm Springs and resorts, Mrs Bukola Fortune-Omosola, the event featured keynote insights from legal luminary and founder of Afe Babalola University, Afe Babalola, alongside construction and project management expert Kayode Adeosun, founder of Ticktos Nigeria Ltd.
Both speakers highlighted the structure, opportunities, and long-term benefits of PPP models in addressing infrastructure gaps and unlocking economic potential.
Representing Glocient Hospitality, the General Manager, Lanre Balogun, through the Communication and Community Engagement Manager, High Chief Ayo Ademiluwa delivered remarks that showcased the ongoing transformation of the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.
Ademiluwa painted a vivid picture of the resort’s past struggles and its remarkable turnaround under private sector management, describing the pre-concession period as one of near-collapse.
He likened the experience to “a father backing a sick child with no solution,” noting that the intervention of Glocient Hospitality has since restored the facility into a thriving destination, now gaining national recognition.
Beyond physical upgrades such as improved infrastructure, road networks, and enhanced hospitality services, Ademiluwa stressed the resort’s growing role in education and tourism development, positioning it as a hub for learning, leisure, and economic activity in Ekiti State.
Panel discussions at the event further examined both the challenges and successes of PPP initiatives in Nigeria, offering participants an opportunity to engage directly with experts on issues ranging from funding constraints to policy implementation and stakeholder alignment.
In recognition of its contributions to the sector, Glocient Hospitality’s leadership was honoured at the event, with Balogun receiving a plaque acknowledging the company’s role in revitalising the Ikogosi resort and advancing tourism development.
Reaffirming its commitment to excellence, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort assured visitors and partners of a continually improved experience, as it deepens its focus on architecture, service delivery, and community engagement under the management of Cavista Holdings’ subsidiary.
