Radisson Hotel to Debut in Benin City, Partners Edo Govt to Create over 200 Jobs

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

The management of Radisson Hotel Group in partnership with Edo State Government,yesterday, said that the debut of the hotel in Benin City, the state capital, would create over 200 jobs for the youths in the state.

Senior Director Development Africa, Radisson Group, Mr. Erwan Garnier, disclosed this during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Edo Government in Benin City.

Garnier noted that the 169-room hotel scheduled to be opened within the next 12 months in Benin, would be the Group’s 12th hotel in Nigeria.

He stated that the hotel array of Scandinavian inspired accommodation would range from contemporary standard rooms to expansive executive suites, including a presidential suite.

“Creating a social hub for delectable cuisine, the hotel’s gastronomic offering will include a lobby bar and cafe, an all-day dining restaurant as well as a pool bar and grill.

“To provide harmonious stay, guests can also unwind in the hotel’s gym and spa.

“With our ongoing commitment to expand in Nigeria, a key market in Africa for our scaled growth and sub-saharan Africa’s largest economy, the debut in Benin, a key state capital, is perfectly aligned with our growth strategy for the country.

“The Radisson Hotel Benin as our first branded hotel outside Lagos and Abuja will continue to reinforce our brand awareness in Nigeria,’’ he said.

Garnier further explained that Radisson Hotel Benin would play a significant role in promoting tourism and business activities within Benin and Edo in general.

Speaking shortly after signing of the MOU, Governor Godwin Obaseki noted that the event marked a significant milestone for the progress and development of the state.

Obaseki, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie, said that “the Edo State Radisson Hotel project represents a symbol of our  commitment to fostering economic growth and transforming the landscape of our state.

“The hospitality and tourism sectors have long been recognised as powerful catalysts for economic prosperity, creating opportunities for employment, investment and socio-cultural exchange.

“By embarking on this ambitious venture, we are signalling our firm belief in the potential of our state as a vibrant and thriving destination,” Obaseki said.

In the words of the state Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Adaze Kalu, the hotel will position Edo as a destination for capital.