The Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism in conjunction with ITC adversary services recently brought together key players in the hospitality industry for a stakeholder engagement held at the Local Government Staff Training Centre, Secretariat, Ibadan. The meeting had hotel managers, short-let owners, event space operators and other stakeholders in the room, creating an opportunity for everyone to discuss the industry and share their experiences.
One of the major issues raised during the meeting was business registration. The Commissioner encouraged hotels, short-lets and other hospitality businesses operating in Oyo State to register with the Ministry and the relevant state government authorities. Stakeholders were also encouraged to visit the Ministry’s office when they need information or clarification about the registration process.
The Commissioner, Dr Wasiu Ajani Olatunbosun explained that ''having more businesses properly registered will help the government have a better understanding of the hospitality businesses operating across the state''. It will also make it easier for the Ministry to communicate with businesses, provide relevant information and work with them on issues affecting the sector. He also said the ''Ministry wants to now be updating their data, he said businesses should always send the number of guest they have monthly basis to help their update their data''.
Proper guest records were another important part of the discussion. Hotels were encouraged to keep records of their guests and provide regular information, including their monthly guest figures. Having this information will give the government a clearer picture of activity within the hospitality sector and help with better planning.
The meeting also touched on tourism and the need to make Oyo State’s tourist attractions more visible. There was a call for better access to tourist centers and proper documentation of these locations so they can be captured, promoted and discovered by more people.
For the stakeholders, the engagement was also a chance to talk about some of the challenges they face, including security, guest verification, compliance and running their businesses. More regular conversations between government and hospitality businesses were encouraged so that concerns can be addressed and both sides can better understand what is needed.
ajani was also present at the engagement, joining other stakeholders in the conversation. As a platform that helps people discover and book hotels, short-lets and event spaces, ajani is committed to supporting greater visibility and growth for hospitality businesses across Oyo State.
The message from the meeting was simple: a stronger hospitality sector requires everyone to play their part. With proper registration, good record keeping, open communication and stronger collaboration between government and businesses, Oyo State can continue to build a more organized and thriving hospitality and tourism industry.
