We Want Nigeria To Be A Leading Hospitality Hub in Africa, Connect with Rest of the World, Says GGM Continental Hotels, Karl Hala
Charles Ajunwa
The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, has said that its vision is to make Nigeria a leading hospitality hub in Africa and connect the country with the rest of the world.
Hala, who disclosed this in recent edition of Forbes Magazine, said they are investing in creating African hospitality at its best with special attention on expansive wellness areas, upgraded culinary offerings, and premium recreation spaces.
According to him, “Nigeria connects to the world, and the world connects here. Our mission is to make this country the leading hospitality hub in Africa, which Continental Hotels are a proud part of. This remains the cornerstone of our operations and cardinal objectives also. We remain in the new era of luxury hospitality in Lagos and Abuja.”
“We are investing in creating African hospitality at its best,” Hala said, adding “Nigeria has a vast demand for meetings and conferences. Between Abuja and Lagos, we aim to position ourselves as the signature of African hospitality.”
The youths, he said, are priority in the Hospitality Academy as part of Continental Hotels’ sustainability programme in partnership with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the Ministry of Communication, GIZ, TBS, MB, ITPN, and multiple embassies.
“For sustainability, my answer is youth. We want to show there is a future in this industry, from entry-level to leadership. The academy will provide internationally recognised certifications, opening doors in Nigeria and abroad.”
Hala said they are also rethinking everything from energy to mobile touchpoints for guests’ comfort and relaxation, noting that attention is being given local sourcing with strong support for Nigerian farmers, artisans, and manufacturers.
“We believe in buying local. This supports the economy and ensures authenticity in what we offer and in tandem with the Nigeria First Philosophy of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Hala said.
