From Oluseye Ojo, Ibadan
The Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), owners of Premier Hotel, has explained why one of the foremost hotels in Nigeria, which sits atop Ibadan’s Mokola Hill, has been shut down.
The Head, Branding and Communication, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Victor Ayetoro, gave the reasons in a statement he issued on Wednesday.
He notified stakeholders and the general public that in pursuit of excellence and commitment to repositioning the hotel, “the company has entered into a joint venture agreement with a seasoned international hotel development and management company with the requisite expertise, technical and financial capacity for redeveloping and revamping the hotel.
“As a result, Premier Hotel will be shut down immediately in order to have a safe environment for the commencement, execution, and timely completion of the project.
“The hotel redevelopment project will entail remodelling, renovating, and upgrading the existing structure as well as adding new and modern facilities befitting of a 5-star world-class hotel. This will take place in phases with anticipation that the first phase will be completed within 24 months.
“The ‘New Premier Hote’ when completed will transit into additional upgraded rooms, equipped with international standard conferencing facilities, modern recreation and fitness centres, multiple restaurants serving African and Continental cuisines, and so on.
“We have sought all necessary statutory and regulatory approvals from all relevant agencies. All obligations of the Hotel are being fulfilled and appropriate stakeholders in this respect are fully engaged in line with best practice.”