Fullmoon Hotels Ltd is inviting investors to invest in their hospitality sector, highlighting the current growth and resilience of the industry in Imo State, with a focus on infrastructure development, tourism promotion, and regulatory framework improvement. Francis Agomuo, general manager of Fullmoon Hotels Ltd, located in the heart of Owerri, Imo State, with over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, has had the privilege of leading top-notch teams and driving business growth through innovative strategies and exceptional customer service. He spoke with SABY ELEMBA in Owerri. Excerpts:
May we know the scope of your job as GM?
As the general manager of Fullmoon Hotels Ltd, I oversee the overall operations, ensuring that our guests receive world-class experiences and unparalleled service. My expertise spans hotel management, revenue growth, and team development, with a keen focus on delivering outstanding results in the competitive hospitality landscape. I am thrilled to be speaking with BusinessDay Newspapers today, sharing my insights on the hospitality industry, and highlighting the unique value proposition that Fullmoon Hotels Ltd brings to the table.
Can you tell us about the state of the Hotel and Hospitality industry in the South East, particularly in Imo State?
The Hotel and Hospitality industry in South East Nigeria, particularly in Imo State, is experiencing a significant transformation. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, the industry has shown resilience and adaptability. In Imo State, we’ve witnessed a surge in tourism, driven by the state’s rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. This influx of tourists has created a demand for quality hospitality services, leading to an increase in hotel development and investment in the region.
However, the industry still faces challenges such as infrastructure deficit, inadequate power supply, and security concerns. These challenges can hinder the growth and development of the industry, making it essential for stakeholders to collaborate and find solutions. To address these challenges, Fullmoon Hotels Ltd has invested heavily in alternative power sources, state-of-the-art security systems, and staff training programmes. We’ve also partnered local stakeholders to promote tourism and support community development initiatives. Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about the future of the hotel and hospitality industry in Imo State. With the state government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and promote tourism, I foresee increased investment, job creation, and economic growth. As a key player in the industry, Fullmoon Hotels Ltd is committed to contributing to this growth and providing exceptional hospitality experiences to our guests.
If the hospitality sector is experiencing difficulty in terms of patronage, what do you think could be done to make it thrive again?
To revitalise the hospitality sector in Imo State, I believe a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Here are some key strategies that could be implemented:
Infrastructure development: The state government should prioritize infrastructure development, including roads, airport, and public transportation. This would facilitate easier access to tourist destinations and hotels. There should be Investment Incentives: The government could offer investment incentives, such as tax breaks, subsidies, or grants, to encourage hotel development and renovation.
Tourism promotion: A concerted effort should be made to promote Imo State’s tourism potentials , including its cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. This could be achieved through targeted marketing campaigns, travel trade shows, and partnerships with travel agencies.
Human capital development: The industry should invest in staff training and development programmes, focusing on customer service, hospitality skills, and leadership development.
To ensure the safety and security of guests and staff is paramount; hotels and the government should collaborate to implement effective security measures and emergency response plans.
The industry stakeholders, including hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour operators should form partnerships and collaborate to promote Imo State’s hospitality offerings and create packages that showcase the state’s unique experiences.
And a favourable regulatory framework should be put in place to support the growth of the hospitality industry. This could include streamlined licensing processes, reduced bureaucracy, and incentives for sustainable tourism practices. By implementing these strategies, I firmly believe that the hospitality sector in Imo State can thrive, creating jobs, stimulate economic growth, and showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
With the current state of the sector in Imo State, do you call for investors into the space?
Despite the challenges facing the hospitality sector in Imo State, I strongly believe that this is an opportune time for investors to consider investing in the sector. Because of the growing demand for the Imo State’s tourism potentials, driven by its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and natural attractions, presents a growing demand for hospitality services. Again, the untapped opportunities of the current underdevelopment of the hospitality sector in Imo State presents a unique opportunity for investors to establish themselves in a relatively untapped market. Moreso, the Imo State government has demonstrated a commitment to developing the tourism and hospitality sector, which could lead to favorable policies and incentives for investors. For instance, considering the ongoing state-of-the-art renovation at Imo Concord Hotel, amongst many other notable industry-centric government-backed interventions across the state. And by investing in the hospitality sector in Imo State, investors can establish a competitive advantage in a market with relatively limited competition. Moreover, with the right investment and management, hospitality businesses in Imo State have the potential to generate higher returns, driven by growing demand and limited supply.
Now, Fullmoon Hotels Limited is a hotel that began with good standards, can you tell us about its current standards?
I’m delighted to report that Fullmoon Hotels has not only maintained its initial high standards but has also continued to raise the bar in terms of quality, service, and overall guest experience. Since its inception, Fullmoon Hotels, has been committed to providing exceptional hospitality services, and we’ve consistently invested in upgrading our facilities, training our staff, and enhancing our operational processes.
Currently, Fullmoon Hotels, boasts luxurious accommodations, our rooms and suites are tastefully designed and equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay for our guests. We offer a range of world class amenities, including a fitness center, spa, swimming pool, and restaurants, to cater for the diverse needs of our guests. Our staff are trained to provide warm, personalised, and efficient service, ensuring that our guests feel valued and cared for throughout their stay. Also, our state-of-the-art technology as we’ve invested in cutting-edge technology to enhance the guest experience, including high-speed internet, digital check-in, and mobile payment systems.
We’re committed to reducing our environmental footprint and have implemented sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, and recycling programmes.
Our commitment to excellence has earned us numerous accolades. We’re proud of our achievements, but we’re not resting on our laurels, we will continue to strive for excellence, innovating and improving our services to exceed our guests’ expectations.
