The skyline of Ibadan has once again regained one of its most recognisable landmarks as the iconic Premier Hotel officially reopened on Thursday after an extensive redevelopment, signalling a major boost for tourism and hospitality in Oyo State and the South-West.
Perched atop Mokola Hill since 1966, Premier Hotel has long been more than a place of accommodation. For generations, it has served as a symbol of the old Western Region’s vision for tourism, business and economic development, welcoming presidents, diplomats, royalty, business leaders and tourists from within and outside Nigeria.
After closing its doors in December 2022 for comprehensive reconstruction, the historic facility has emerged as a modern five-star hospitality destination. The redevelopment has increased its capacity from 87 to 154 luxury rooms while introducing upgraded conference halls, contemporary restaurants, improved recreational facilities and other world-class amenities designed to meet international standards.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described the reopening as the restoration of a national icon and a demonstration that Nigeria’s heritage assets can be preserved and modernised to drive economic growth.
He noted that tourism and hospitality remain central to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that investments in infrastructure, culture and hospitality are expected to attract visitors, create jobs, stimulate local businesses and strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
For Oyo State, the reopening marks the return of one of its biggest tourism assets. Beyond providing luxury accommodation, Premier Hotel’s strategic location on Mokola Hill offers visitors panoramic views of Ibadan, including landmarks such as Cocoa House, the Oyo State Government Secretariat and Bower’s Tower, making it a destination in itself.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Misbau Babatunde, described the hotel as an enduring symbol of the state’s social, cultural and economic heritage, noting that its revival would further position Ibadan as a preferred destination for conferences, leisure and business tourism.
Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, recalled that the hotel was conceived as the flagship hospitality asset of the old Western Region. He said its location was deliberately chosen to provide a cool climate, breathtaking views of the ancient city and a distinctive presence that made the hotel a beacon of hospitality for decades.
The Group Managing Director of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Abdulrahman Yinusa, said the redevelopment was driven by the determination to transform Premier Hotel into a world-class destination capable of competing with leading luxury hotels across Africa.
With its modern facilities and rich history, the rebirth of Premier Hotel is expected to strengthen Ibadan’s tourism profile, attract conferences and international visitors, create employment opportunities and contribute significantly to the hospitality economy of Oyo State and Nigeria.