From Okwe Obi, Abuja
At the recently concluded IHTEF Africa Conference in Abuja, Trevor Ward was bestowed with the prestigious “Leading Hospitality Legend” award, recognising his exceptional contributions to the development of the hospitality and tourism ecosystem in Africa.
This award is the highest honour presented to a hotel industry leader who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and dedication. It acknowledges Ward’s significant research, sacrifices, and outstanding contributions to the industry’s advancement.
Ekene Nnabuihe, CEO of Boulevard Hotel Group, and Adedayo Adesugba FIH, Vice Chair of the Association of Tourism and Hospitality Associations of Nigeria (ATHCON), presented the award on behalf of the organisers. They highlighted Ward’s leadership, research roles, and unwavering commitment to the industry’s growth.
Chibuikem Diala MIH, Managing Partner of Sustainable Eco6tems and organiser of the IHTEF conference, expressed his admiration for Ward, stating, “It was a pleasure announcing Trevor Ward as the Winner ‘Leading Legend of the year 2024’ at the Hotel Industry Excellence and Sustainability Awards (HIESA).”
Diala emphasised Ward’s lasting impact on the African hospitality landscape, noting his high standards and dedication to excellence. He further praised Ward’s Hotel Chain Development in Africa pipeline report, which has become an invaluable resource for industry stakeholders, governments, investors, and managers.
“Trevor is symbolic – he resonates wisdom, refreshing candour and genuine hospitality,” Diala stated. “So, for us, the HIESA team and indeed the industry leadership in Nigeria, this is indeed a rare opportunity to celebrate a man who has given his all for the foundation and building up of the hospitality industry.”
Boney Kapoor’s words aptly capture the essence of the award: “There are heroes and then there are legends, heroes get remembered but legends never die.”
Trevor Ward’s illustrious career began in 1983 after completing a university degree in hotel management at the University of Surrey. He held management positions with De Vere Hotels and Ladbroke Hotels in the UK before specialising in advisory services for clients in developing countries from the late 1980s.
Since 2003, Ward has worked in Nigeria and over 30 African countries, providing professional advisory services, feasibility studies, hotel development appraisals, operator selection, litigation support, and research. His publication of the hotel pipeline report has been hailed as a vital resource for investors, developers, and industry stakeholders.
The Hotel Industry Excellence & Sustainability Award (HIESA) is a prestigious event that recognises and rewards organisations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth, development, and sustainability of the hospitality and tourism sector.