Odu’a Investment commissions revamped Premier Hotel in Ibadan, earns FG’s commendation
Abdullateef Fowewe
Odu’a Investment Company Limited has officially commissioned the newly transformed Premier Hotel on Mokola Hill in Ibadan.
The commissioning which took place on Thursday in Ibadan was lauded by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who represented President Bola Tinubu.
“I am delighted to be in the historic city of Ibadan today to celebrate the commissioning of the newly transformed Premier Hotel, a landmark project that reaffirms the commercial, cultural, and strategic importance of Ibadan and Oyo State within the Nigerian federation,” Akume said, calling the reopening “not just the reopening of a hotel, but the restoration of a true national icon.”
Speakers at the event framed the project as both heritage preservation and economic stimulus.
Odu’a Investment Company Group Chairman, Bimbo Ashiru described the hotel’s rebirth as “the relaunch of the Premier Hotel brand,” noting the property first opened in 1966 has been redesigned from its original footprint into a 154-room, five‑star facility with extensive conference, leisure and sustainability infrastructure.
In his remark, Group Managing Director Abdulrahman Yinusa revealed that the hotel will open for business in the fourth quarter of 2026.
While speaking, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa praised the project as “history reborn,” stressing its role in job creation, tourism, and regional integration.
Chairman of Premier Legacy, Gboyega Fatimilehin, in his remark, highlighted the economic impact during construction and projected employment once operations begin.
Officials credited the six South‑West shareholder states and successive Odu’a boards for the redevelopment and said the project aligns with federal priorities to diversify the economy through tourism, infrastructure and regional development.
Akume also reassured attendees that the federal government is strengthening security to protect investors and visitors, and urged citizens to cooperate with agencies in resolving recent kidnapping incidents.
The ceremony drew federal and state representatives, including officials standing in for the six South‑West governors, Odu’a executives, project contractors, and other dignitaries.
Odu’a Investment Company Limited noted that the revamped Premier Hotel aims to position Ibadan as a major hub for conferences, tourism and high‑end hospitality in the region.
