The Bayelsa State Tourism Development and Hotel Licensing Agency hosted a pivotal one-day stakeholders' interactive and sensitization meeting at Golden Tulip Hotel, Yenagoa today. The event, which brought together key players in the hospitality industry, government officials, and tourism experts, aimed at setting the stage for a comprehensive overhaul of the state's tourism infrastructure.
The Director-General of the Bayelsa State Tourism Development and Hotel Licensing Agency, Mrs. Oluseyi Ayamasaowei, kicked off the session by outlining the government's ambitious plans to register all hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and eateries across Yenagoa. This initiative is a critical part of the state’s broader strategy to develop its tourism potential, positioning Bayelsa as a top destination for both leisure and business travel.
"We are committed to making tourism in Bayelsa a force to reckon with," Mrs. Ayamasaowei said. "The government's focus is to standardize our hospitality industry, ensuring that it can compete with leading tourist destinations across Nigeria and beyond."
The key to this transformation, Ayamasaowei emphasized, lies in the state’s hospitality businesses being properly regulated. In an era where safety, security, and quality service are paramount, she explained that plans are already underway to introduce licensing procedures for hospitality establishments. This will ensure that hotels, restaurants, and bars meet modern standards, ultimately improving the visitor experience in Bayelsa.
"We want visitors to feel safe and welcome when they come to Bayelsa," Ayamasaowei said. "That’s why we’re mandating the installation of CCTV in all hospitality facilities. It’s about ensuring the safety and security of both guests and workers in the industry."
The state's commitment to revamping tourism also received a boost from the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrujakpo, who was represented by Mr. Gowon Toruyouyei, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor. Toruyouyei highlighted that the government was ushering in a "paradigm shift"—moving from an era of lax regulation to one of structured, people-friendly governance. This shift is aimed at fostering a collaborative environment between the government and hospitality businesses to create a better, more sustainable industry.
"The goal is to work together with business owners to create an environment where both parties can thrive," Toruyouyei remarked. "The government’s regulatory approach is designed to be inclusive and supportive, not restrictive."
The meeting was well-attended by key figures, including Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba, Chairman of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism; Hon. John Alla, the Commissioner of Tourism Development; Chief Peretimi Oseke, Chairman of the Hotel Owners Association; and other prominent stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
As part of the plans, the state government is looking to roll out the licensing process by March 2025, setting the stage for Bayelsa’s tourism sector to become a beacon of growth and opportunity. This initiative promises to not only enhance the quality of services offered but also boost the state's economy, creating jobs and attracting both local and international tourists.
