Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has acknowledged the huge potentials of the hospitality sector, saying that the industry was capable of generating huge revenues for the state.
Ambode stated this at the official commissioning of The George, a hospitality centre in Ikoyi, Lagos, adding that his administration would access the opportunities in the sector.
He said the state government would expand the frontiers of the hospitality industry in the state so as to attract investment, adding that the current economic realities in the country have made it necessary for the state to develop the non-oil sector to ensure sustainable revenue sources.
The governor noted that relevant policies and incentives would be put in place to create an enabling environment for the development of the sector, which, according to him, is a key driver of his administration’s agenda.
“This is a happy occasion because it has reaffirmed the status of Lagos State as the first choice destination of investment. It also confirms the untapped opportunities in tourism and hospitality sector in Lagos State,” Ambode stressed.
“We are committed to putting in place relevant policies and incentives that would create an enabling environment for the development of the hospitality sector as a key driver of our administration’s development agenda,” he added.
Ambode called on other investors to key into the various opportunities that abound in the tourism sector across the state, saying: “Lagos is open for business. We assure you of the safety of your investments and we would continue working to make your investment worthwhile in all cases.”
He later handed over a letter of commendation to the management of The George, adding that same gesture would be accorded worthy residents who contribute to the growth and development of the state.
Chairman of the hotel, Mr. Tien George said with the setting up of the hotel, the owners intended to play a key role in the development of tourism in Lagos as well as providing employment for the teeming youths in the state and Nigeria.