Nigerian entrepreneur and co-founder of Lounge One and Paper Hospitality, Adegbe Ogbeh, has urged the government at all levels to deepen collaboration with private investors to revitalise the nation’s hospitality sector and boost economic recovery.
He spoke in an interview in Lagos, noting that public-private partnerships (PPPs) remain the most effective way to improve service delivery, expand infrastructure, and generate sustainable revenue in the hospitality industry.
Ogbeh, who also co-founded Blessmi, a digital fundraising platform that helps Nigerians access support for medical and educational needs, said stronger collaboration between government and private investors is key to revitalising the sector.
“Public-private partnerships can improve service quality, increase efficiency, and generate more revenue. There’s an excellent opportunity for partnership in delivering public-facing services like driver’s licences, passports, building permits, and even tourism operations.”
A lawyer by training, Ogbeh has spent over two decades blending legal insight with entrepreneurial drive to build businesses that combine service, innovation, and social impact. He believes Nigeria’s hospitality sector can thrive if properly structured around collaboration and accountability.
“My legal background plays a key role, especially in managing partnerships. Getting the details right builds comfort and trust, which are essential for lasting relationships,” he said.
Ogbeh’s foray into hospitality began almost by chance when a friend introduced him to an opportunity at the Abuja domestic airport. That encounter led to the birth of Lounge One, now one of Nigeria’s leading airport hospitality brands.
“Lounge One started almost by accident,” he recalled. “But Paper Hospitality was a deliberate step into private-sector innovation. Having travelled widely, I wanted to create something in Abuja we’d be proud of while giving the city a fresh experience.”
The ventures have since grown beyond lounges to include airport pharmacies and high-end hospitality services across several locations.
Ogbeh said despite inflation and rising operational costs, investment in the hospitality sector has remained steady, driven by optimism about Nigeria’s long-term recovery.
“Consumers have reduced discretionary spending, but investors are positioning for a rebound from 2026,” he said.
He identified power supply, high rent, and inflation as major obstacles limiting growth.
“Inflation has impacted every aspect of hospitality,” he said. “But with resilience and the right adjustments, the sector will continue to expand.”
According to Ogbeh, Nigeria’s hospitality industry is becoming more visible globally, thanks to social media and the creativity of local entrepreneurs.
“Private-sector innovation and social media are key drivers of Nigeria’s hospitality growth,” he said. “The weaker naira also makes the country more attractive to foreign tourists while boosting local tourism.”
Ogbeh believes Nigeria has the cultural vibrancy and workforce to build a thriving tourism economy if supported by better legal frameworks and stronger investor protection.
“The sector offers strong opportunities for semi-skilled labour,” he noted. “But we need improved security and legal structures to attract investment while maintaining ease of entry.”
Beyond hospitality, Ogbeh co-founded Blessmi, a local alternative to global crowdfunding platforms that often restrict Nigerian users.
“We created Blessmi as an accessible platform for Nigerians,” he said. “The response has been positive, especially in medical fundraising.”
He emphasised that while social impact is important, entrepreneurs must first build financially viable ventures.
“A healthy business is better positioned to support social causes. Otherwise, you’re running a charity,” he said.
Ogbeh attributes his ability to manage multiple ventures to strong partnerships and effective leadership.
“I’ve been fortunate to have excellent partners and co-founders, and that’s something I plan to continue in future ventures,” he said.
He described accounting as one of the most overlooked but crucial elements of business success.
“Accounting is the second most important factor after your business model. Many businesses fail because of poor accounting,” he advised.
Ogbeh said Paper Hospitality plans to expand into at least two African countries, while Lounge One is targeting four new airports, including one international location.
“We’re aiming for new African markets and more airports,” he said.
On future community projects, he reaffirmed his commitment to social impact through Blessmi.
“The scale of need in Nigeria means we must all do our part. We are each other’s keepers,” he said.
To young Nigerians venturing into hospitality, Ogbeh offered a simple but vital piece of advice:
“Get an accountant, or borrow one. No matter how great your idea is, without proper accounting you can’t grow or position your business effectively,” he said.
