In a remarkable confluence of professional and cultural milestones, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, a seasoned marketing communication expert, has been appointed as the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This prestigious appointment comes as Fagade prepares for his historic coronation as the first-ever Aare Asoju Oba of Ibadanland on December 7, 2024.
Expressing gratitude for the dual honours, Fagade shared:
“God has blessed me with two extraordinary milestones. I humbly pray for the grace and wisdom to fulfill these roles and exceed all expectations. Ire ni ooo!”
A Stellar Career in Marketing and Beyond
Fagade’s journey in marketing spans over two decades of innovation and leadership. As the founder and Managing Director of Sodium Brand Solutions, a leading agency renowned for its impactful campaigns for multinationals like Coca-Cola and MTN, Fagade has cemented his reputation as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s marketing industry.
His career began at De-United Foods in 1999, following his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) stint. He later honed his expertise at IMS Group’s Tequila Event and SO&U Saatchi & Saatchi Group, focusing on experiential marketing.
In 2009, he launched Sodium Brand Solutions, elevating the agency to prominence with cutting-edge marketing strategies. Beyond business, Fagade’s philanthropic initiatives, such as the Abisoye Fagade Foundation and the “Oyo Si Ma Dun” Network, have empowered countless Nigerian youths through skills training and mentorship.
Cultural Legacy and Leadership
Fagade’s cultural impact is equally profound. In 2023, he was honored as the Aare Asoju Oba of Ara Kingdom by Oba Olubayo Adesola Windapo of Osun State. His upcoming coronation as the Aare Asoju Oba of Ibadanland further underscores his dedication to preserving and advancing Yoruba traditions.
Driving Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality
As Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Fagade is tasked with revitalizing Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sectors. His mandate includes:
- Capacity Building: Equipping the industry with a skilled workforce.
- Perception Shift: Promoting tourism as a vital economic driver.
- Training Excellence: Enhancing the quality of professional training.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with industry operators and associations.
- Events and Development: Organizing nationwide initiatives to boost tourism.
- Staff Welfare: Prioritizing institutional growth and employee well-being.
Fagade’s vision is clear: to position Nigeria as a global hub for hospitality and tourism through innovative leadership and strategic reforms.
A Future Defined by Vision and Impact
From his early education in Ibadan to his professional achievements and cultural recognition, Fagade embodies a dynamic blend of expertise, leadership, and service. With his new role at NIHOTOUR and his cultural coronation on the horizon, he stands poised to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural landscapes.
