Nigerian entrepreneur and brand strategist Abisoye Fagade is setting out to revitalize the National Hospitality and Tourism Institute, leveraging his extensive experience and exposure to global best practices. With a rich background in media, advertising, and business development, Fagade believes he can turn the institute into a world-class training ground that prepares Nigerian students to excel in the hospitality and tourism industries both domestically and abroad.

As the founder of Sodium Brand Solutions and a leading figure in Nigeria’s media space, Fagade’s understanding of brand positioning and customer-centric service is well-suited to transform the institute’s operations and curriculum. He aims to instill a new culture of professionalism, global competitiveness, and innovation within the institute, ensuring it becomes a vital force in shaping the nation’s hospitality standards.

Modernizing Curriculum for Global Competitiveness

Fagade’s first step is to overhaul the institute’s curriculum, introducing practical, industry-relevant courses that reflect current global trends in hospitality and tourism. He plans to bring in seasoned industry experts and form international partnerships to expose students to the skills needed to thrive in a globalized market. This includes collaborations with renowned hotels, tourism agencies, and hospitality schools worldwide, offering students opportunities for internships, exchange programs, and real-world learning experiences.

“Hospitality is about people and experiences, and in today’s world, it is essential to train students to understand both local and international guests,” Fagade said in a recent statement. “We need a curriculum that combines practical skills, cultural sensitivity, and an understanding of global standards.”

Embracing Digital Tools and Sustainable Practices

As digital transformation sweeps across industries, Fagade envisions the National Hospitality and Tourism Institute embracing technology to improve training and services. By integrating digital tools, software applications, and e-learning platforms, he intends to make training more accessible and interactive, preparing students to use the tech solutions that are becoming essential in hospitality management.

Additionally, Fagade places a strong emphasis on sustainability, which has become a focal point in global tourism. His strategy includes training students on eco-friendly practices, resource management, and sustainable tourism models that protect Nigeria’s cultural and natural heritage. “Our institute should set an example, showing that Nigeria can offer world-class tourism that respects our environment and our traditions,” Fagade noted.

Expanding Opportunities Through Global Collaborations

To ensure the institute reaches international standards, Fagade plans to develop exchange programs and collaborative initiatives with leading hospitality institutions in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. These programs will enable Nigerian students to gain exposure abroad and learn from established markets, bringing back valuable insights and experiences that can be adapted to the local industry. This global perspective, he believes, will create a pool of Nigerian hospitality professionals who are both globally informed and deeply rooted in their own cultural identity.

Long-Term Vision: Establishing a National Legacy

Abisoye Fagade’s mission is not merely about modernizing an institution but about fostering national pride and economic growth. He believes that Nigeria’s tourism sector holds significant potential to diversify the economy, and a well-trained workforce is key to making that vision a reality. “Our people are the heart of Nigeria’s hospitality,” he said. “We are known for our warmth and welcoming spirit. By enhancing our standards, we can ensure our tourism industry is a leader in Africa and an inspiration worldwide.”

As he undertakes this ambitious journey, Fagade’s leadership and forward-thinking approach are expected to transform the National Hospitality and Tourism Institute into a beacon of excellence, establishing a legacy that will elevate Nigeria’s status on the world tourism map.

Seun Oloketuyi

Founder /Chairman Advisory board

Best of Nollywood Awards

Writes from Lagos

The South African pay-TV operator MultiChoice Group disclosed that its Nigerian unit, MultiChoice Nigeria, lost 243,000 subscribers on its Digital Satellite Television (DStv) and General Entertainment on Television (GOtv) services from April to September this year.

The company revealed these figures in its Interim Financial Results for the period ending 30 September 2024, which were released on Tuesday.

MultiChoice attributed this decline to Nigeria’s high inflation rate, which exceeds 30%, driven by the rising costs of food, electricity, and fuel, causing many customers to disconnect.

In its financial report for March 2024, MultiChoice had earlier reported an 18% subscriber loss in Nigeria.

The company further reported a 566,000-subscriber loss in the Rest of Africa operations over the past six months, with Zambia and Nigeria contributing the largest shares to this decline.

“With the Rest of Africa business having seen a decline of 803k subscribers in 2H FY24, this rate of decline slowed to 566k in 1H FY25,” stated MultiChoice.

The loss included 298,000 in Zambia and 243,000 in Nigeria, while other markets experienced a minor decline.

Extreme inflation and currency instability have negatively impacted the group’s profits, with MultiChoice Group CEO Calvo Mawela commenting, “We are making good progress in addressing the technical insolvency that resulted from non-cash accounting entries at the end of the last financial year.”

Mawela noted that the group’s net equity position is expected to recover by November.

With regard to Zambia’s losses, the company attributed them to extensive power outages caused by drought, leaving some regions with up to 23 hours of daily outages.

The company also cited competition from streaming services and changes in viewer preferences as pressures on its traditional pay-TV model.

To adapt, MultiChoice invested an additional ZAR1.6 billion in its streaming service Showmax, which reported 50% year-over-year growth.

Mawela added, “Showmax strategically positions the business to actively participate in the streaming revolution as it gains momentum across Africa.”

Bodex Media is delighted to announce renowned Tv host and Photographer, Frank Edoho who is popularly known for his iconic stint on “Who Want to be a Millionaire” as the official host for its highly anticipated fifth edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout, themed “SOCIAL MEDIA: THE INFLUENCE, POWER AND IMPACT.”

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, at the Landmark Event Center, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos, BSMH 5.0 promises an unforgettable day of networking, collaboration, learning, and excitement.

The event will feature live musical and dance performances, a green carpet extravaganza, games and fun activities, and exclusive food and drinks. Attendees will also stand a chance to win luxurious prizes, including an all-expenses-paid luxury weekend getaway, an exclusive dinner with a world-renowned music artist, and many more surprises.

Frank Edoho’s unique blend of humor, intelligence, and showmanship makes him a perfect choice to lead this momentous celebration of BSMH’s five years of success.

His remarkable ability to spark meaningful conversations and build connections with online communities through his engaging and witty interactions also makes him exceptionally well-suited to host this year’s edition.

When asked about hosting the event, Frank Edoho’s response was short, sleek, and confident, leaving no doubt that he’s ready to bring his A-game.

“We are on. I have booked it,” he said.

Media personality and event/Tv host, Marianna Orji, will host the green carpet, ensuring attendees are treated to a memorable experience.

According to the convener, Bodex Hungbo, this year’s edition of the BSMH event is open to all, with no registration required.

“With high-profile appearances from influencers, celebrities, stakeholders, political figures, and artists, this event is set to be a star-studded spectacle”. She said.