Glocient Hospitality Joins Distinguished Guest Lecture 2026, Showcases Ikogosi Transformation Story

The Distinguished Guest Lecture (DGL) 2026 held on 15th April brought together business leaders, government representatives, investors in the private sector, partners in business development, and students from across Nigeria for an insightful experience at the BJC Event Center, Afe Babalola Way, Airport Road, Ado Ekiti. The summit, themed “Public Private Partnership for Sustainable Development – Stakeholders’ Engagement,” explored how strong collaboration between government and public institutions can sustain growth, social impact, and inclusive development. As an invited guest, the Glocient Hospitality Team witnessed a thorough explanation of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) from keynote speakers: founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, and founder of Ticktos Nigeria Ltd, Abuja, QS Kayode Adeosun. Both speakers shared the processes and advantages of the PPP model with the audience. Glocient General Manager, Lanre Balogun, represented by the company’s Communication and Community Engagement Manager, High Chief Ayo Ademiluwa, joined speakers and panellists in sharing opening remarks. In his address, Ademiluwa intimated the audience about the ongoing transformation at the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, located in Ikogosi-Ekiti, sharing stories of its past condition and its current ongoing revitalization. Ademiluwa further enlightened the audience that beyond the transformation of internal roads, structures, and a hospitable environment, the Resort and Conference Center provides educational benefits, which the leadership of the company counts as essential for tourism development. The event also featured panel discussions on the challenges attending the PPP model as well as the successes recorded so far through it. Attendees had the opportunity to interact directly with the panellists. In a vivid illustration, Ademiluwa recounted: “Before the concession to Glocient Hospitality, I describe my experience when I was managing Ikogosi Resort as like a father backing a baby. The baby was ill and almost dying, but I could not do anything. Respite came when Glocient Hospitality took the concession from Ekiti State. Now my baby is a bouncing baby boy that was recognized in 2022. Go see Ikogosi.” The General Manager, Glocient Hospitality Limited, Lanre Balogun, was presented with a plaque in recognition of his contribution to the industry. Meanwhile, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort has reassured the public, patronizers, and partners of a live-in experience every moment the space is visited, ensuring a smoother relationship with each passing visit. As a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings Limited – known for its excellence and professionalism, the resort continues to step up efforts in architecture, hospitality, and community engagement. Media Contact: Bukola Fortune-OmosolaSenior Communications Specialist Phone: +234 8037197117

Glocient Hospitality Reinforces Safety Commitment with Fire Training at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort

Glocient Hospitality Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of patrons, visitors, stakeholders, and staff through its periodic firefighting training for workers across the Culinary, Food and Beverages, Security, and Maintenance departments at the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort. The initiative continues to play a vital role in strengthening safety awareness among staff while placing a premium on the protection of all business assets, particularly the wellbeing of guests. On April 20, 2026, officials from the Ekiti State Fire Service, including Chief Fire Superintendent Mrs. Florence Ayeni and Mr. Ademola, led by Principal Fire Superintendent Mr. Sunday Adeleye (ACFS), visited the resort to conduct a practical training exercise. A total of 32 participants took part in the session. Addressing attendees, Mr. Adeleye noted: “Fire is bi-functional in nature. It plays dual roles; positive and negative. The positive comes when fire is under your control and you are abiding by its rules and regulations. It is then used for activities such as cooking or bathing. However, when these rules are ignored due to carelessness, ignorance, or overconfidence, fire reveals its destructive nature.” Participants were equipped with essential fire prevention skills, safety awareness, and control measures designed to help them prevent, identify, and respond effectively to fire incidents in the workplace. The training also enhanced staff understanding of fire risks, including recognizing common causes such as electrical faults, gas leaks, and human error. It emphasized the importance of detecting potential hazards early, preventing fire outbreaks, and promoting safe practices such as proper housekeeping, safe cooking, and electrical safety. Staff were further guided on emergency response procedures, including raising alarms, evacuation protocols, and contacting emergency services. Additionally, participants received hands-on training on the safe use of fire and other safety equipment where necessary. The management of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort reiterated that while the organisation remains focused on delivering exceptional hospitality services, it places the highest priority on the safety and wellbeing of its staff, partners, and guests. Bukola Fortune-Omosola Senior Communications Specialist Email: bomosola@glocient.com

Glocient Advocates Stronger Private Sector Role in Driving Sustainable Hospitality Growth in Africa

The 2026 International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-sustainability Forum, IHTEF, Africa 9.0 brought together leaders and stakeholders in the hospitality industry who erupted thoughts and ideas on the needed transformation for the industry and means to drive sustainable growth through global best practices. As a top player in the industry, Glocient Hospitality Limited, once again, took the centre stage to discuss diverse areas of concern to the growth of the industry and practical steps that must be harnessed to shape the sector’s future. Speaking to the theme; “Investing in Africa’s Sustainable Hospitality Future”, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, managers of Ikogosi warmsprings resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ekiti state, Lanre Balogun, highlighted the benefits of the privatised investment in the face-lift that has branded the sector. The sector contributes hugely to the economy of any economy. During a panel session, Balogun amplified the giant strides of the visioner behind Glocient Hospitality, John Olajide, which have brought about a remarkable growth to the organisation and by extension, the world, among other competitors in the industry. Balogun noted that strategic investments by private organisations have contributed significantly to improving standards, expanding opportunities and creating more sustainable models for the industry. The Hospitality Industry must look beyond structural edifice but value creation. Other panellists including Adedayo Adesugba (Nexus 318 Hospitality; Oluwaseun Alabi Ph.D (Afreximbank – AATC Onomo Hotel), Christine Nyerimani (General Manger, Nordic Abuja) at the event shared experiences and perspectives on the future of the industry, with discussions converging on a common theme – that sustainable growth within Africa’s hospitality sector would require stronger partnerships and increased investment from private stakeholders. Participants stressed that beyond infrastructure development, private investments can also support innovation, improve customer experiences and strengthen the competitiveness of African hospitality brands on the global stage. The two-day gathering also witnessed repeated recognition of the Ikogosi brand and its broader vision, with discussions around its development receiving positive responses from participants. The event which featured a dinner, concluded with networking engagements and further conversations on strengthening collaboration among industry leaders toward building a more resilient and sustainable hospitality sector across Africa.

Cavista Holdings and Glocient Hospitality Celebrate Francis Ogosi’s Election as Chairman, Institute of Hospitality (IoH), Nigeria Region

– Lagos, Nigeria Cavista Holdings and Glocient Hospitality have congratulated Francis Chukwuka Ogosi, Hospitality Manager at Glocient Hospitality and Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, on his election as Chairman of theNigeria Region of the Institute of Hospitality (IoH), the internationally recognized professional body for hospitality professionals. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, the Institute of Hospitality is one of the world’s leading professional membership organisations for the hospitality, leisure, and tourism industries. Through professional accreditation, leadership development, education, and networking, the Institute promotes excellence and professional standards across more than 100 countries. In his congratulatory message to Ogosi, the Chairman, Cavista Holdings and Glocient Hospitality, Niyi John Olajide said: “Francis’ election as Chairman of the Institute of Hospitality Nigeria Region is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, deep industry expertise, and an unwavering commitment to raising standards across the sector. Glocient Hospitality was built on the conviction that world-class hospitality can and should be grown from African soil. Having one of our own lead the foremost professional body for this industry in Nigeria is a validation of that conviction. We are proud to have him as part of the Cavista Holdings family and are confident that his leadership will contribute significantly to advancing professionalism and excellence within Nigeria’s hospitality industry.” Ogosi’s election reflects a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in hospitality development, hotel operations, and tourism management across Nigeria and West Africa. Widely regarded as one of the region’s leading hospitality professionals, he has built a reputation for delivering successful hotel developments, operational turnarounds, and guest experience excellence. Since 2009, Ogosi has advised hotel investors, developers, and owners across the region, helping to deliver more than 1,500 hotel rooms and over 18 major hospitality projects. Under his hospitality leadership at Glocient Hospitality (operators of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, Ekiti State) the resort earned recognition as Nigeria’s Best Resort for two consecutive years, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s leading tourism destinations. The election further underscores the growing influence of Nigerian hospitality professionals on the global stage and highlights the important role of leadership, professional development, and industry collaboration in strengthening the future of hospitality across Nigeria and West Africa. About Cavista Holdings Guided by the belief that business is a force for good, Cavista Holdings is a global investment and holding company committed to creating value and transforming lives through strategic investments. Operating across four continents, our portfolio of companies delivers innovative products and services in key sectors including Agriculture, Financial Services, Healthcare, Hospitality and Technology. For more information, please visit www.cavistaholdings.com or contact Uchenna Ibemere at uibemere@cavistaholdings.com

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