Glocient boss advocates technology to deepen, not replace, human connection in hospitality
At the recently concluded Hotel Managers Conference (HMC) Africa 2025, Mr. Lanre Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, emphasized that technology in the hospitality industry should enhance rather than replace human connection. Speaking at the event held in Lagos, Balogun highlighted how innovation at the Ikogosi Warm and Cold Springs Resort is used to link visitors to Nigeria’s timeless cultural and ecological heritage. Glocient Hospitality, the management company behind the revitalized Ikogosi Resort in Ekiti State, showcased its Four-Phase Innovation Project. This initiative uses technology such as mobile storytelling guides, QR-coded trees, and digital cultural archives to enrich guest experiences while preserving the site’s unique natural and cultural environment.Balogun also pointed out the importance of a modern Property Management System (PMS) to personalize services and improve operational efficiency at the resort. During the conference exhibition, the team welcomed Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who praised Ikogosi Resort as one of her favorites and emphasized the need to preserve Nigeria’s iconic landmarks. Glocient Hospitality’s efforts were recognized at the Gala and Awards Night, where the company won two major honors. Balogun received the “Hospitality Impact Award” for his leadership, and Ikogosi Resort was named “Best Unique Destination Experience in Nigeria.” These awards underscore Glocient’s commitment to creating immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable hospitality experiences. As the conference concluded, Glocient reaffirmed its mission to tell meaningful stories, invest in inspiring destinations, and lead the future of connected, authentic hospitality across Africa.
Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort Named Best Unique Destination Experience In Nigeria
…as Balogun clinches Hospitality Impact Award Glocient Hospitality showed strength at the recently held Hotel Managers Conference Africa 2025 in Lagos as it clinched two awards, affirming its growing role as one of Nigeria’s most forward-thinking hospitality brands. This is as Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, which is managed by the outfit, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, was named Best Unique Destination Experience in Nigeria, an award that confirms its place as a national treasure and a shining example of eco-tourism destination done right. The General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, Mr Lanre Sharafa Balogun, clinched the Hospitality Impact Award, acknowledging his visionary leadership and transformative role in repositioning the resort. These awards reflected Glocient Hospitality’s unwavering dedication to creating immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable hospitality experiences. Glocient Hospitality’s presence at the two-day conference highlighted its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven guest experiences rooted in local heritage. Its exhibition booth was a delight to many as it attracted a number of high profile industry operators and visitors. One of them was the Lagos State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who shared her admiration for Ikogosi Resort, describing it as one of her favourite destinations. Her words served as a powerful reminder of the value of preserving Nigeria’s most iconic eco-tourism destinations. The GM of the group raised the bar with his insightful discourse in a high-level panel on; Technology in Hospitality: Innovations Shaping Guest Experience. In his remarks, he shared Glocient Hospitality’s unique approach to integrating innovation with authenticity—specifically through the Four-Phase Innovation Project currently underway at Ikogosi. Balogun also emphasised the role of a modern Property Management System (PMS) in personalising service and improving operational efficiency at Ikogosi. His contribution to the panel reflected the outfit’s core belief that technology in hospitality should not replace human connection but deepen it.
At HMC Africa 2025, Glocient Hospitality garner accolades, respect
Committed to redefining excellence in the hospitality industry with innovation and dedication at its core, Glocient Hospitality, a forward-thinking hotel management company has earned widespread recognition, solidifying its position as a leader in the field. At the recently concluded Hotel Managers Conference (HMC) Africa 2025, the management company affirmed its growing role as one of Nigeria’s trailblazing Nigerian brand. As the management company behind the revitalised Ikogosi Warm and Cold Springs Resort, Glocient’s presence throughout the conference highlighted its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven guest experiences rooted in local heritage. The conference kicked off on a promising note, showcasing inspiring leadership and impactful initiatives. During the exhibition, the Glocient team hosted the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka at their booth. In a heartfelt conversation, the Commissioner shared her admiration for Ikogosi Resort, describing it as one of her personal favourites. Her endorsement highlighted the importance of preserving Nigeria’s iconic natural and cultural landmarks. Joining a high-level panel discussion with the theme: “Technology in Hospitality: Innovations Shaping Guest Experience,” Glocient Hospitality General Manager, Lanre Balogun, highlighted Glocient’s approach to blending innovation with authenticity, particularly through the Four-Phase Innovation Project at Ikogosi. This initiative leverages technology to elevate guest experiences via mobile storytelling guides, QR-coded trees, and digital cultural archives, while preserving the destination’s ecological and cultural heritage. Balogun also emphasised the role of a modern Property Management System (PMS) in personalising service and improving operational efficiency at Ikogosi. His contribution to the panel reflected Glocient’s core belief: that technology in hospitality should not replace human connection—it should deepen it. At Ikogosi, innovation is used not just to modernise, but to connect visitors to something timeless and uniquely Nigerian. The conference highlight was the Gala and Awards Night, where Glocient Hospitality shone bright. The company received two esteemed awards, solidifying its impact in the industry. Balogun took home the “Hospitality Impact Award” for his exceptional leadership in elevating Ikogosi Resort, while the resort was crowned “Best Unique Destination Experience in Nigeria,” cementing its status as a national gem and eco-tourism pioneer. The awards reflect Glocient Hospitality’s unwavering dedication to creating immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable hospitality experiences. At Ikogosi and beyond, Glocient continues to set the standard for what hospitality in Nigeria can and should be—thoughtful, innovative, and deeply rooted in place. As the conference ended, Glocient walked away not just with awards, but with renewed purpose to keep telling the stories that matter, to keep investing in destinations that inspire, and to keep setting the pace for a more connected, more meaningful future for hospitality across Africa.
Glocient wins double at HMC Africa 2025
Glocient Hospitality Limited, operators of the revitalised Ikogosi Warm and Cold Springs Resort, Ikogosi, Ekiti State made a bold and memorable statement at the recently concluded Hotel Managers Conference (HMC) Africa 2025, as it was honoured with two prestigious recognitions that underscored the company’s growing influence in the sector. Its General Manager, Mr. Lanre Sharafa received the Hospitality Impact Award, in acknowledgement of his visionary leadership and transformative role in repositioning Ikogosi Resort. The resort was named Best Unique Destination Experience in Nigeria, a title that affirms its place as a national treasure and a shining example of eco-tourism done right. The Hotel Managers Conference (HMC) Africa 2025 was held in Lagos, between June 28 and 29, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. In his remark, Mr. Balogun who participated in a high-level panel on Technology in Hospitality: Innovations Shaping Guest Experience at the conference, shared Glocient’s unique approach to integrating innovation with authenticity, specifically through the Four-Phase Innovation Project currently underway at Ikogosi. The initiative, he said, uses technology to enhance the guest experience through mobile storytelling guides, QR-coded trees, and digital cultural archives, all while maintaining the essence of the land’s ecological and cultural history. He stressed the role of a modern Property Management System (PMS) in personalising service and improving operational efficiency at Ikogosi. Balogun’s contribution to the panel reflected Glocient’s core belief: that technology in hospitality should not replace human connection—it should deepen it. “At Ikogosi, innovation is used not just to modernise, but to connect visitors to something timeless and uniquely Nigerian,” he added. These awards reflect Glocient Hospitality’s unwavering dedication to creating immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable hospitality experiences. At Ikogosi and beyond, Glocient continues to set the standard for what hospitality in Nigeria can and should be—thoughtful, innovative, and deeply rooted in place. During the exhibition session at the conference, the Glocient team hosted the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka at their booth. She shared her admiration for Ikogosi Resort, describing it as one of her personal favourites, an endorsement that serves as powerful reminder of the value of preserving Nigeria’s most iconic natural and cultural destinations. As HMC Africa 2025 ended, Glocient walked away not just with awards, but with renewed purpose to keep telling the stories that matter, to keep investing in destinations that inspire, and to keep setting the pace for a more connected, more meaningful future for hospitality across Africa.
Tourism: Glocient Hospitality Shines at HMC Africa 2025 with Thought Leadership and Industry Recognition
Glocient Hospitality made a bold and memorable statement at HMC Africa 2025, affirming its growing role as one of Nigeria’s most forward-thinking hospitality brands. As the management company behind the revitalised Ikogosi Warm and Cold Springs Resort, Glocient’s presence throughout the conference highlighted its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven guest experiences rooted in local heritage. According to a press release by the firm, day one of the conference set the tone for what would become a rewarding showcase of leadership and impact. During the exhibition, the Glocient team had the honour of hosting the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Lagos State, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, at their booth. In a warm and genuine exchange, she shared her admiration for Ikogosi Resort, describing it as one of her personal favourites. Her words served as a powerful reminder of the value of preserving Nigeria’s most iconic natural and cultural destinations. The momentum continued to Day Two, where Mr. Lanre Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, participated in a high-level panel on “Technology in Hospitality: Innovations Shaping Guest Experience.” In his remarks, he shared Glocient’s unique approach to integrating innovation with authenticity—specifically through the Four-Phase Innovation Project currently underway at Ikogosi. The initiative uses technology to enhance the guest experience through mobile storytelling guides, QR-coded trees, and digital cultural archives, all while maintaining the essence of the land’s ecological and cultural history. Mr. Balogun also emphasised the role of a modern Property Management System (PMS) in personalising service and improving operational efficiency at Ikogosi. His contribution to the panel reflected Glocient’s core belief: that technology in hospitality should not replace human connection—it should deepen it. At Ikogosi, innovation is used not just to modernise, but to connect visitors to something timeless and uniquely Nigerian. The high point of the conference came during the Gala and Awards Night. Glocient Hospitality was honoured with two prestigious recognitions that underscored the company’s growing influence in the sector. Mr. Lanre Sharafa, General Manager, received the Hospitality Impact Award, acknowledging his visionary leadership and transformative role in repositioning Ikogosi Resort. The resort itself was named Best Unique Destination Experience in Nigeria, a title that affirms its place as a national treasure and a shining example of eco-tourism done right. These awards reflect Glocient Hospitality’s unwavering dedication to creating immersive, culturally rich, and sustainable hospitality experiences. At Ikogosi and beyond, Glocient continues to set the standard for what hospitality in Nigeria can and should be—thoughtful, innovative, and deeply rooted in place. As HMC Africa 2025 ended, Glocient walked away not just with awards, but with renewed purpose to keep telling the stories that matter, to keep investing in destinations that inspire, and to keep setting the pace for a more connected, more meaningful future for hospitality across Africa.
Purpose-Led Hospitality: What We Learned Transforming Ikogosi into a Model for Inclusive Tourism
In 2022, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort was a sleeping beauty, rich in natural wonder, yet quietly waiting for rediscovery. Today, it’s one of Nigeria’s most dynamic destinations for strategy retreats, executive wellness getaways, and M.I.C.E-focused tourism. At Glocient Hospitality, our goal wasn’t just to renovate the resort. We set out to re-imagine what hospitality could look like when driven by purpose. That meant putting people first, designing with intention, and delivering meaningful impact; not just to guests, but to the community that calls Ikogosi home. Here’s what we’ve learned along the way: 1. Tourism can be a tool for rural revitalisation. We didn’t import talent, we nurtured it. Over 60% of our team is made up of young people from Ekiti and neighbouring communities. With skills training in guest services, landscaping, and food and beverage, hospitality became a bridge to employment, dignity, and growth. 2. M.I.C.E infrastructure should inspire, not intimidate. Our modern conference halls, breakout areas, and open-air strategy zones were designed for connection, not just convenience. Whether it’s a board retreat, team-building weekend, or policy review, we believe that big decisions happen best in beautiful, grounded environments. 3. Inclusivity isn’t just moral, it’s strategic. 70% of our workforce is women. From housekeeping to kitchen, spa to leadership roles, we’ve seen how inclusive hiring fuels creativity, service excellence, and operational strength. Diversity is not a quota. It’s a competitive edge. 4. Nature isn’t just the setting, it’s the story. The warm and cold springs of Ikogosi, flowing side by side, remind us that contrast can be harmonious. That productivity and rest are not enemies. In fact, leadership clarity often comes when we pause. Our guests don’t just meet, they reset. 5. Purpose-led hospitality builds trust and loyalty. We’ve welcomed federal ministries, private companies, NGOs, and faith-based organisations. And their feedback is consistent: “We felt seen, safe, and inspired.” That’s what happens when your hospitality model is designed for inclusion, wellbeing, and service not just show. At Glocient Hospitality, we believe the future of tourism in Africa lies in authenticity, accessibility, and impact. Ikogosi is proof that when you build with purpose, you build something that lasts. If your organisation is planning a retreat, M.I.C.E event, or leadership offsite in 2025, we invite you to explore what happens when nature, wellness, and strategy meet. Visit www.ikogosiresort.com Contact: sales_ikogosi@glocient.com
3 Reasons Corporate Teams Are Choosing Ikogosi for Strategy Retreats
It’s not just about getting away; it’s about getting clarity. More companies are ditching boardrooms and choosing destinations that inspire big ideas and Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort is steadily climbing to the top of the list. Why? Because when the surroundings change, so does the way we think. Here’s why corporate teams are heading to the hills of Ekiti for their next big breakthrough. 1. Nature Boosts Strategy (Yes, Really): When was the last time your team had a brainstorm that didn’t end in muted mics and screen fatigue? Ikogosi offers a fresh alternative literally. With its natural warm and cold springs, lush greenery, and tranquil pace, the environment clears the mental clutter and makes space for real strategic thinking. Ideas flow better when your view is more than four white walls and a projector screen. 2. MICE-Ready, Minus the Chaos: Forget scrambling for venues, rooms, meals, and microphones. Ikogosi is built for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (M.I.C.E), with modern conference halls, open-air breakout spaces, and full hospitality support. Your retreat can go from team-bonding hikes in the morning to high-level presentations in the afternoon in one well-run location. Its corporate logistics are made easy, and scenic. 3. Purpose with Every Booking: There’s something different about a destination that gives back. Every team that comes to Ikogosi contributes to a bigger story, local job creation, youth empowerment, and rural development. So, while you’re crafting your next 12-month plan, know that your offsite is also investing in something meaningful. That’s a strategy with soul. Wrap-up: Ikogosi isn’t just another resort, it’s where teams rediscover focus, leaders reconnect with vision, and the next big ideas begin. Book your strategy with a view. Your team deserves it.
5 Hospitality Trends Shaping African Tourism in 2025
How Glocient Hospitality is Designing the Future of Travel in Africa As Africa rises as a global hotspot for adventure, wellness, and cultural tourism, the continent’s hospitality industry is undergoing a purposeful transformation. At Glocient Hospitality, we’re not just witnessing these trends, we’re helping shape them across our destinations, from Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort to future-facing properties across Nigeria. Here are five major travel and hospitality trends defining Africa’s tourism scene in 2025: 1. Experiential Travel Is the New Luxury Today’s travellers are choosing authentic African experiences over conventional luxury. They want immersive, soulful moments, not just stay. From storytelling dinners under the stars to open-air wellness sessions beside natural springs, Glocient is creating “memory architecture” that elevates experience over amenities. At Ikogosi Resort, every detail is designed to transform a visit into a lasting impression. 2. Nature-Based Wellness is Africa’s Rising Retreat Culture Wellness tourism in Nigeria is being redefined not in sterile spa rooms, but in the wild serenity of natural wonders. At Ikogosi, the convergence of warm and cold springs becomes more than a scenic backdrop, it’s a wellness sanctuary for restoration, resilience, and renewal. Resorts that integrate nature into therapy and mindfulness are capturing a growing global audience. 3. Sustainability is Now Smart Hospitality Sustainability isn’t a trend; it’s the foundation of future hospitality in Africa. From eco-conscious design to local sourcing and energy-smart facilities, Glocient is committed to building resorts that respect the environment and uplift communities. 4. M.I.C.E is Driving Business Tourism in Africa As demand grows for meaningful offsite experiences, MICE tourism in Africa is emerging as a powerful force in the hospitality sector. From corporate retreats to leadership offsites and industry conferences, the continent’s natural destinations are now becoming boardroom alternatives. At Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Glocient is championing business tourism in Nigeria through a blend of modern conference infrastructure, serene natural settings, and curated retreat packages. It’s more than a meeting venue, it’s a destination where strategy, wellness, and innovation converge. For forward-looking companies, this is the new way to work, connect, and lead. 5. The Rise of Domestic and Diaspora Tourism With the growth of Africa’s middle class and a global wave of diaspora reconnection, local travel is booming. Glocient is championing the “return home” movement crafting experiences rooted in identity, heritage, and modern luxury. At Ikogosi, visitors rediscover not just the land, but themselves. In Conclusion African tourism in 2025 is vibrant, purpose-driven, and increasingly local. At Glocient Hospitality, we’re building more than resorts, we’re building destinations of meaning. Whether you’re exploring Ikogosi’s wonders, co-creating a retreat, or planning the next leadership getaway, the future of African travel begins with thoughtful design and authentic connection.
Hon. Minister Hannatu Musawa Commissions New Presidential Villa at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort; Champions the Destination 2030 Initiative
Ikogosi Ekiti State, April 26, 2025 The Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has officially commissioned the newly completed Presidential Villa at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, a major milestone in the ongoing revitalization of Nigeria’s premier tourist destination. The new Presidential Villa, spanning 320 square meters, offers a luxurious hospitality experience for discerning guests. Designed to accommodate up to eight persons (four adults and four children), the suite boasts world-class facilities, including a master living room, master and guest bedrooms, a full kitchen with an island, pantry/store, outdoor patio and grill, backyard sit-out, dining area, mini kitchenette, and a range of modern conveniences found only in the best holiday resorts in the world. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Musawa commended the efforts of Cavista Holdings and Glocient Hospitality, operators of Ikogosi Resort, for investing in infrastructure that elevates the standard of hospitality services in the country. Describing Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as “A magical, remarkable wonder of nature”, She further emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging strategic partnerships to grow the tourism sector, drive economic expansion, and create jobs. As part of her maiden visit to the resort, the Minister also participated in the Destination 2030 Strategic Retreat held at the resort, where stakeholders discussed the integration of technology and data into Nigeria’s tourism development agenda. She remarked:“One of the key drivers of growth and investment in any sector is access to reliable data. When we came on board at the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, we identified the urgent need to properly collate and document data for Nigeria’s creative, cultural, and tourism industries. The Destination 2030 data platform, developed in partnership with Cavista Holdings, VIISAUS, and Big Win Philanthropy, is a critical tool that will support the Ministry in achieving the broader goals of economic expansion and job creation.” Lanre Sharafa Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, expressed delight at hosting the Minister:“We are honoured to welcome the Honourable Minister Hannatu Musawa to Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort. Her commissioning of our Presidential Villa and her leadership at the Destination 2030 retreat reinforce our shared vision of building a smarter, more sustainable tourism ecosystem for Nigeria.” With these developments, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort is poised to strengthen its position as a top destination for leisure, business, and policy innovation in Nigeria.
Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort Hosts 2025 Executive Women’s Seminar: A Transformative Retreat for Women in Leadership
Glocient Hospitality is proud to announce the 2025 Executive Women’s Seminar, an exclusive gathering designed to empower and inspire women in leadership. This landmark event will take place at the award-winning Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort & Conference Center from March 29th to 31st, 2025.Set against the serene backdrop of Ikogosi’s world-famous warm and cold springs, the seminar promises a unique blend of professional growth, personal wellness, and meaningful connections. With the theme “Accelerate Action,” this immersive experience is crafted to equip executive women with the tools and insights needed to lead with confidence, resilience, and vision. The program will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshops focusing on leadership excellence, work-life integration, and strategies for sustainable success. Participants will engage in thought-provoking sessions led by accomplished female leaders across diverse industries – such as Banking, HR, Entertainment, Investment, etc. “The Executive Women’s Seminar is more than just a learning experience—it’s an opportunity to step back, recharge, and engage with like-minded women who are shaping the future,” says Ada Matthews, Director of Marketing for Glocient Hospitality. “Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, with its natural beauty and world-class facilities, provides the perfect setting for reflection, growth, and rejuvenation.” Beyond the seminar sessions, attendees can indulge in the resort’s tranquil environment, enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the warm and cold springs. With the long holiday weekend, participants are encouraged to extend their stay, allowing time to relax and return to their professional and personal lives refreshed and re-energized. Event Details:• Event: 2025 Executive Women’s Seminar• Theme: Accelerate Action• Dates: March 29th – 31st, 2025• Venue: Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort & Conference Center, Ikogosi-Ekiti, Nigeria• Registration: To secure your spot, email sales_ikogosi@glocient.com The 2025 Executive Women’s Seminar underscores Glocient Hospitality’s commitment to fostering leadership and personal development while promoting Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as a premier destination for corporate retreats and transformative experiences.
