Abuja Continental Hotel set to host IHTEF 2024 conference  

This is contained in a statement by the Organizers of the conference, signed by IHTEF’s Executive Director, Mr. Chibuikem Diala, and made available to newsmen in Owerri.

The theme of the year 2023 Conference is: “Emerge Together: Reimagining a Green Hospitality Economy “.

“We are very proud to announce that Abuja Continental Hotel is the proud host and venue sponsor for IHTEF 2024. The Continental in Abuja offers us the bold inspiration, ambiance and classic serenity to chart a course for the hospitality industry. This bold partnership is a testament to Abuja Continental Hotel’s expressed interest and unrivalled support to the hospitality industry in Nigeria especially in the area of human capital development and value for excellence.

“With 540 exclusive rooms and internationally inspired and locally executed hospitality, Abuja Continental is one of Africa’s iconic Hotels situated at the very centre of Abuja in Nigeria, blending nature with sophistication; displaying a tradition of warmth and impeccable service.”

According to the statement, the event will feature conference, exhibition, skill development masterclasses and awards as well as welcome leaders, senior colleagues, mentors, friends and family of the forum.

Diala described the event as both a knowledge, networking and a transaction ground for Industry players.

 “I specially invite you to IHTEF 7.0. IHTEF is a premium MICE platform for the hospitality sector in Nigeria and beyond.

 “IHTEF 2024 is an epoch in itself because it’s our 7th edition, hence our desire to ’emerge together’ with a new thinking of how hospitality businesses should be done in the light of the emerging green economy.

“According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the global building/construction industry contributes 40% to global carbon emission. This no doubt includes hospitality real estate.

 “ This is a lot. So we can’t solve the climate problem without making concerted efforts to solving emissions in the hotel built, operations and service environment, hence this conference will take a 360 degree solution driven approach to addressing the issues of ESGs and sustainability, decarbonising the hospitality industry, revenue management, customer experience, workforce excellence and Interagency/inter-department role in achieving these “, he said.

He expressed firm optimism that together, players in the hospitality industry can champion a new dimension of growth for the sustainability of the hospitality sector.

He added that the 2024 conference will intersect between green hospitality development, green finance, skills and standards (Talent Ecosystem) for a new economy. It will be a mix of knowledge, insights, networking, skills, fun and laughter.

“This 7th edition will feature IHTEF conference  and exhibition, IHTEF bed making competition, the bartenders’ academy- (Masterclass for Barmen, Waiters & Waitresses) and the chef’s colloquium.

He said the event, codenamed the ‘IHTEF Africa Hotel Show’,  will close with the prestigious Hotel Industry Excellence and Sustainability Awards (HIESA).

He however noted that registration for the conference is limited and guarantees all access to registered participants.

“Registration for the conference is now open and I encourage hospitality enthusiasts, hotel owners, owner’s representatives, managers, food and beverage/facility managers; tourism/sustainability related MDAs, Head of Sustainability in Financial/Academic Institutions among others to register for the conference.”