The International Facility Management Association in Nigeria has signed a partnership with Balmoral Group to provide strategic capacity building aimed at setting global standards for facility management in the hospitality industry.
The IFMA’s President, Olalekan Akinwumi, explained that the partnership will serve as a benchmark for regulating hospitality industry standards within Nigeria.
In a statement sent to PUNCH Online on Wednesday, Akinwumi stated, “This partnership is the first of its kind and marks the beginning of stronger institutions compliant with international best practices across Nigeria’s hospitality industry.”
“Building capacity involves looking beyond today, as all knowledge is utilized in the future. For us as facility managers, ensuring a safe environment goes beyond the building and includes the well-being of people. This strategic collaboration aims to establish safe event centres, positioning Balmoral Group as a benchmark for the industry.
“Our partnership will enable us to train staff and enhance facility management skills, leading to efficient service delivery. We believe this journey will set a new standard for the Nigerian hospitality industry, attract foreign confidence, and enhance visitors’ experience”, Akinwumi said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Balmoral Group, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, noted that the firm is poised to deliver excellence across its operations.
He added, “The partnership with IFMA will no doubt steer conversations that would bring the Nigerian hospitality industry to par with world standards in hospitality. We charge vendors that work with event and hospitality firms to get incorporated into the system to ensure uniformity across the board.
“Our collaboration with IFMA focuses on innovation, education, and sustainability, ensuring operational excellence through their expertise in sustainable facility management. Together, Balmoral Event Center and IFMA will enhance our facilities’ efficiency, safety, and overall experience by exploring advanced technologies and methodologies. We will offer top-tier training programs, certifications, and industry insights to our staff, clients, and communities.
“With IFMA’s guidance, we will implement eco-friendly practices and aim to extend this partnership to other venues across Nigeria and Africa, encouraging businesses to seek IFMA certification. We hope the government mandates facility team certifications for event centres.”
Similarly, the General Manager of Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, represented by the Director of Noise Control, Mrs. Abosede Natufe, congratulated the duo for the bold step in championing environmental protection and safety in the hospitality industry.
“This collaboration exemplifies responsible action and lessens the burden on government agencies, setting a model for the hospitality industry. Coinciding with the 10th Lagos State Climate Change Conference, this initiative addresses the impact of human activities on safety and protection. Partnerships like IFMA and Balmoral relieve government agencies and set a model for the hospitality industry,” Babatunde said.
While advising the partners, Ms. Iyabode Aboaba stressed the importance of maintaining excellence and passion in service delivery.
“To do great work, you have to be passionate. To all of us here, let us crave excellence. You could be labelled, but don’t mind that label. That label will become something people will admire in you with time,” she said.
