Hilton expands operations in Nigeria, signs deal with Lagos airport

Hilton Worldwide has confirmed plans to open a 350 guestroom and suite hotel at the Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

The firm, in a statement yesterday, said it signed a management agreement with quality Inspection and Testing Services Limited at the AHIF 2016 in Rwanda, and that it would open the new business in 2023 to join Hilton’s growing African portfolio of more than 80 properties trading or in the development pipeline.

The new strategy for Nigeria and other African countries will see Hilton double its presence across the continent in the next three to five years.

“With a population of more than 16 million, Lagos is the seventh-fastest growing city in the world and the second largest in Africa, with much of the nation’s wealth and economic activity concentrated here,” Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, HiltonWorldwide, said.

“Strong growth is forecasted in both domestic and international travellers using Murtala Muhammed International Airport, so this exemplary new hotel will be well placed to meet traveller’s needs, offering an unparalleled level of design, comfort and service.”

Hilton said the hotel would be situated within close proximity to Ikeja, as well as the passenger terminals at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, which service travellers.

Mr. Sam Iwuajoku, Chairman and CEO of QUITS, said: “The signing of the agreement to open Hilton Lagos Airport is testament to a period of exciting growth and development for Lagos. Our plans to build an exceptional hotel at the international airport will revolutionise the traveller experience and also offer a state-of-the-art choice for conferences, meetings and events. We look forward to a very successful collaboration with Hilton Worldwide on this outstanding development.”

Hilton Lagos Airport will comprise 350 guest-rooms, of which 72 are suites, an Executive floor and multiple food and beverage outlets, including; a restaurant serving international cuisine; a specialty restaurant; a fashionable rooftop cocktail bar; and a hip night club. An elevated pool deck, with lavish gardens and a striking horizon pool overhanging the side of the property, provides breath-taking views of the surroundings and a unique leisure experience for an airport property. The hotel will also feature a spa and fitness centre.