Punuka Annual Lecture Highlights Financing, Value Creation in Nigeria’s Hospitality Sector
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry have called for increased investment, innovative financing models and stronger public-private partnerships to unlock the sector’s vast economic potential and drive sustainable growth. The call was made at the 2026 Punuka Annual Lecture held at the PAS World Centre, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, with the theme: “Development, Financing and Value Creation in Nigeria’s Hospitality Sector”.
Delivering the Keynote Lecture, Ian McAuley examined opportunities and challenges within Nigeria’s hospitality industry, stressing the need for strategic investments, improved infrastructure, and policies capable of attracting both local and foreign investors to the sector.
McAuley noted that the hospitality industry remains a critical driver of economic growth, job creation and tourism development, adding that unlocking its full potential would require deliberate efforts to improve access to financing and create an enabling business environment.
Chairman of the event, Tein George, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among government agencies, investors and industry operators, in advancing the growth of the sector and enhancing its contribution to national development.
The Special Guest of Honour, Hannatu Musawa, who was represented by Abisoye Ayoyinka Fagade, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening tourism and hospitality as key pillars of economic diversification. She highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving industry standards, capacity building and attracting investment into the sector.
Participants at the lecture expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s hospitality industry, emphasising that effective financing structures, policy consistency and value-driven investments would be crucial to positioning the country as a leading tourism and hospitality destination in Africa.
