Elevating Standards: HBS Graduates New Wave of Hospitality Professionals, Urges Industry-Focused Training

 

​The Hospitality Business School (HBS) has reached a significant milestone in its mission to revolutionize Nigeria’s service sector. On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the institution celebrated the graduation of dozens of hospitality professionals at its ceremonial event in Lagos. This graduation, themed "Hospitality Change Agents," was more than just a certificate presentation; it served as a loud call for a paradigm shift toward hands-on, industry-focused training to meet global service standards.

​Shaping the Future of Nigeria’s Hospitality and Tourism

​As the tourism and hospitality sectors continue to emerge as critical pillars of Nigeria’s non-oil economy, the demand for "industry-ready" talent has never been higher. HBS, under the leadership of its CEO, Dr. Eric Mekwuye, is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation.

​During the ceremony, Dr. Eric emphasized that the school’s philosophy goes beyond traditional classroom learning. "At HBS, we don’t just provide our students with the required skills; we ensure they are properly refined to deliver the best value for the industry in Nigeria and beyond," he stated.

​The HBS Training Model: Hands-On and Intensive

​The school adopts a training model that mirrors real-world hospitality operations. Key features of the HBS curriculum include:

• ​Extended Learning Hours: Intense sessions designed to build stamina and discipline.
• ​Flexible Durations: Ensuring no student is left behind, regardless of their starting skill level.
• ​Real-Life Simulation: Training in individualized kitchens and syndicate rooms that replicate luxury hotel environments.

​Global Outcomes: Graduates Making an Impact

​The success of a vocational institution is measured by the performance of its alumni, and HBS boasts an impressive track record. Dr. Eric cited several success stories that underscore the effectiveness of the school's "Change Agent" philosophy:

• ​International Competitions: Graduates who have competed and won prestigious culinary and hospitality awards within months of entering new markets.
• ​Global Employment: Alumni who have secured high-level positions in international hotel chains shortly after relocating abroad.
• ​Operational Transformation: Interns who have completely overhauled and optimized hotel kitchens, significantly improving service delivery for their employers.

​One such "Change Agent" is Chef Obike Omon, CEO of Ogik and a recent graduate. Despite having years of industry experience, she described the HBS program as transformative. "The training deepened my understanding of hospitality operations beyond routine practice," she remarked, highlighting how the school helps even veterans refine their craft.

​A Call for Institutional Support and Professionalism

​The event also featured a keynote address from Alhaji Badaki Aliyu, Ph.D., the President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN). Dr. Aliyu commended HBS for its role in strengthening manpower development, noting that professionalism is the only way to ensure sustainable growth in the tourism sector.

​The "Change Agent" Awards

​In a move to foster a community of excellence, HBS used the graduation ceremony to recognize external hospitality brands and professionals as "Change Agents." This initiative aims to:

1. ​Bridge the Gap: Create a stronger link between educational institutions and industry employers.
2. ​Reward Innovation: Celebrate brands that prioritize employee training and customer service excellence.
3. ​Set Benchmarks: Establish a high bar for what professionalism looks like in the Nigerian hospitality space.

​Why Industry-Focused Training is Non-Negotiable in 2026

​The hospitality landscape in 2026 is vastly different from previous decades. With the rise of digital integration and a more discerning global traveler, Nigerian hotels and restaurants must compete on an international level.

​"You can only give what you have," Dr. Eric noted, referring to the level of expertise required by staff.

​Without specialized training that focuses on revenue management, food safety, leadership, and soft skills, Nigerian hospitality businesses risk falling behind. HBS is addressing this by offering modules that cover everything from "Room Division" to "Financial Accounting for Hoteliers," ensuring that graduates are not just "workers," but strategic managers.

​Conclusion: A New Era for Professionalism

​The graduation of these new hospitality professionals marks a bright spot for Nigeria’s service industry. As HBS continues to champion skills-driven education, the ripple effect will likely be felt in improved guest experiences across the country. For aspiring hoteliers and chefs, the message from the 2026 HBS graduation is clear: the future belongs to those who are refined, professional, and ready to act as change agents in their respective fields.