The 2026 International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-sustainability Forum IHTEF Africa 9.0 brought together industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders who explored strategies for transforming Africa’s hospitality sector and strengthening sustainable growth through global best practices.
At the centre of discussions was Glocient Hospitality Limited, which once again played a leading role in highlighting critical issues affecting the industry and proposing practical solutions for long-term sector development.
Speaking on the forum’s theme, “Investing in Africa’s Sustainable Hospitality Future,” General Manager of Glocient Hospitality and manager of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Lanre Balogun, stressed the importance of private sector participation in reshaping the hospitality landscape.
He noted that privatised investment has significantly contributed to upgrading industry standards, expanding opportunities and building more sustainable business models capable of driving economic growth.
Balogun also highlighted the contributions of Glocient’s founder, John Olajide, describing his vision as a driving force behind the organisation’s expansion and competitiveness within the sector.
According to him, strategic investments by private organisations go beyond physical infrastructure, focusing instead on value creation, innovation and long-term sustainability within the hospitality ecosystem.
Other panellists, including Adedayo Adesugba of Nexus 318 Hospitality, Dr. Oluwaseun Alabi of Afreximbank/AATC Onomo Hotel, and Christine Nyerimani, General Manager of Nordic Abuja, also contributed to discussions on the future of hospitality in Africa.
They collectively agreed that sustainable industry growth would depend largely on stronger partnerships and increased private sector investment across the continent.
Participants further emphasised that beyond infrastructure development, private investment is essential for improving innovation, enhancing guest experience and strengthening the global competitiveness of African hospitality brands.
The event also recorded repeated recognition of the Ikogosi brand, with participants commending its development and growing relevance within the industry.
The two-day forum concluded with a dinner session and networking engagements aimed at fostering collaboration among stakeholders and advancing a more resilient and sustainable hospitality sector across Africa.
