By Alex Ibeh
The hospitality Industry has been described as a dynamic and diverse sector constantly evolving to meet the needs and expectations of travellers, tourists and local customers.
This was the focal point of dignitaries who spoke at the unveiling of a Magnificent People’s Pacific hotel and Suits, located at No. 711 Pacific Road, unity layout Orji, Owerri North Local Government Area, also known as Wonderland, Imo State on Saturday 15th November 2024.
The occasion saw the attendance of Government functionaries, Political heavyweights, Traditional rulers, Captains of Industry, Business men and women, among other personalities.
Among whom included the commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Barr Jerry Egemba, who opened the edifice; the commissioners for Finance; Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs; and Environment, Chuck Chukwuemeka, Chief Mrs. Ruby Emele, and Barr. Major Ejike Emenike respectively.
The Chairman of the Occasion, Chuck Chukwuemeka, in his address, described the tourist centre as a milestone, established not only to provide comfort for the patrons but also to reduce unemployment in the state.
He thanked the Chief Executive, Chief Hyginus Obinwanne for his commitment in establishing the cosy centre, adding that no cost was spared in giving the edifice elegant touches.
Chuck who is the Commissioner for Finance, Imo State said, “I must not fail to firstly thank the Governor of Imo State, distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma for creating the business enabling environment through his 3R administration that encouraged this monumental investment that we all are celebrating today.
“As we are gathered in this cosy event centre, I cannot but commend the large heart of the unwavering commitment of the Chairman/Chief Executive of the Hotel, Chief Hyginus Obinwanne and his dear wife, their lovely children as well as the team of dedicated workers.
“The hotel is more than just a structure; it is a symbol of excellence, comfort and warmth.”
He however, commended Governor Hope Uzodinma for proving the enabling environment for Businesses to thrive in the State.
While speaking with journalists shortly after the four in one event, the chief executive noted that the ceremony was for four reasons rolled into one: his birthday, wedding anniversary, and a feast for his chieftaincy title of ‘Omerenwanneya’ given to him a day before by his people through their traditional ruler, in the community, in Isiala Mbano LGA, for helping his kinsmen in various ways.
“I received a chieftaincy title yesterday. And today is the opening of the hotel. On top of that, it is my wedding anniversary. The fourth one is my birthday. And it is like I have one stone to kill four birds.
So I thank God for everything. It’s not easy,” he said.
The Umuohiri Isiala Mbano born Philanthropist further hinted that his interest in Hospitality business stermed from his flare for entertainment as a youth.
According to him, those who have mentor performs better than individuals without any. When I was in the Secondary as a student I had passion for entertainment and that is what transcended into what we are seeing today.
He however expressed gratitude to God for realizing the dream.
Chief Obinwanne’s wife, Lolo –,who also spoke with Newsmen thanked God that the ceremony recorded a huge success, and prayed God to grant the family good health, His grace and long life to forge ahead.
HRH Eze Oliver Ohanweh, the Obi Gburugburu of Ihim Autonomous community urged other overseas based sons from Mbano axis to emulate the gesture.
Appreciating the development, Ruby Emele noted that it complemented the good efforts of the Governor who was working so hard to develop the state.
She described the project as magnificent in the hospitality industry.
“Our brother has done well to bring this development here. What we owe him is patronage,” she added.
Chief Major Ejike Emenike commended the proprietor for conceptualisation and realisation of the edifice, adding that it would encourage others to continually invest in the state.
He promised to encourage the chief executive by facilitating the tarring of the access road to the area for more business investments.
Describing it as a ‘wonderful erection,’ and a great achievement, the hotelier’s elder brother, Chief Michael Uchenna Obinwanne, pleaded with government to help in tarring the access road.
