The Ogun State Government has intensified efforts to attract diaspora investments, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sector, with the inauguration of Treal Hotel and Suites in Abeokuta.
Speaking at the unveiling of the facility located in Ibara Housing Estate, the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, who represented Governor Dapo Abiodun, said the state remained a prime destination for investors due to its strategic location and growing economic potential.
Talabi noted that Ogun’s proximity to Lagos, coupled with its expanding tourism assets and rich cultural heritage, positioned it as a natural hub for hospitality and leisure investments.
He commended the Chairman of the hotel, Mr Adebayo Fagbenro, for returning to invest in his home state after over two decades abroad, describing the move as a vote of confidence in Ogun’s business environment.
“The government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investors, especially members of the diaspora bringing global experience and capital into the state,” he said.
Also speaking, founder of the Kingsway International Christian Centre, Matthew Ashimolowo, called for stronger collaboration between Nigerians at home and those in the diaspora to drive national development.
He said Nigerians abroad were excelling globally and should be encouraged to channel their expertise and resources into the country, adding that private sector-driven projects could help reshape Nigeria’s global image.
“Projects such as this represent private-sector patriotism capable of transforming the nation’s narrative,” he said.
In his remarks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, described the investment as a major boost to the socio-economic development of Abeokuta.
The monarch noted that the city had continued to witness steady growth in infrastructure and private sector participation, positioning it as an emerging economic and cultural hub.
“Abeokuta is witnessing steady socio-economic development, and investments like this are a welcome addition to the growth and progress of our land,” he said.
Fagbenro, in his address, said the project was conceived out of a desire to improve hospitality standards in the state and contribute to its economic development.
“Having travelled extensively, I observed gaps in the hospitality sector back home and felt compelled to bridge them,” he said, adding that feasibility studies indicated strong growth potential driven by increasing business and tourism activities.
His wife, Mrs Adejoke Fagbenro, said the promoters were focused on building a brand that would compete globally, with a vision anchored on expansion, excellence, and consistency.
The General Manager of the hotel, Mr Nuhu Onoja, expressed confidence that the management team would position the facility as a leading hospitality destination in the state through professionalism and quality service delivery.
Also, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Local Government Chairmen, Henry Fagbenro, described the investment as a boost to Ogun State’s tourism profile, noting that the state continued to attract credible investors due to its stable environment and investor-friendly policies.
Dignitaries at the event included government officials, traditional rulers, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic and diaspora community.
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