Nigeria’s first over-water resort, Ziba, today officially unveiled Phase 3 of its landmark development in Lagos, marking a new chapter for luxury tourism in Nigeria.

The expansion introduces larger Grand Overwater Rooms, the first-ever loft-style overwater stays in Nigeria, and a dedicated wellness centre — taking the signature over-water experience to a new level.

“Nigeria’s first over-water resort just got bigger,” said Tricia Olufemi, Managing Director and CEO of Ziba.

“Today is a milestone. We’re taking the over-water experience we pioneered to a whole new level with larger Grand Overwater Rooms, the first-ever loft-style overwater stays in Nigeria, and a dedicated wellness centre. This is about proving that world-class luxury escapes don’t have to mean leaving Nigeria.

When we started Ziba, people asked if an over-water resort could work in Lagos. We believed it could. Lagos deserves destinations that match its energy and ambition. We’re not importing a concept. We’re building a Nigerian luxury story.

Phase 3 is proof that Nigerian creativity + hospitality can compete with anyone globally. My job now is to make sure every guest who steps into Ziba feels that pride.

Nigeria’s first over-water resort just got bigger. And this is only the beginning.”

Phase 3 expands Ziba in three signature ways. The Grand Overwater Rooms offer bigger spaces and more expansive views, designed for couples, families, and anyone who wants to wake up over the water. The first-of-their-kind loft-style stays introduce double-height ceilings over the water, a first for Nigeria. And the dedicated wellness centre brings spa, recovery, and quiet spaces designed for how Nigerians rest and recharge.

The launch was attended by key government officials, business leaders, and creative industry icons, including Hon. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Honorable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Lagos State; Dr. Kennedy “Ned” Okonkwo, prominent Nigerian real estate entrepreneur and billionaire mogul; Fela Durotoye, leadership and strategy expert; Funke Bucknor, founder of Zapphire Events; and other dignitaries from tourism, hospitality, and entertainment.

“Ziba is exactly the kind of investment Lagos needs. It shows what is possible when vision meets execution,” said Hon. Toke Benson-Awoyinka.

“Lagos deserves destinations that match its energy and ambition. With Phase 3, Ziba is creating jobs, training hospitality talent, and showing investors that Nigeria can lead in experiential tourism.

We want Nigerians to holiday at home first, and we want the world to come see what we’re building here. Lagos is ready.”

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Kennedy “Ned” Okonkwo highlighted the broader economic impact: “Ziba is more than a resort. It’s jobs, it’s training, and it’s proof that we can build world-class experiences right here at home,” said Dr. Kennedy “Ned” Okonkwo.

“When we started this journey, people doubted an over-water resort in Lagos. Today, Phase 3 answers them.

If you’ve dreamed of waking up over the water, you don’t have to fly 8 hours anymore. Ziba brings that dream 30 minutes from Lagos.”

The launch was capped with a stirring performance by The Loud Choir, who performed live at the resort, bringing music, energy, and celebration to the unveiling of Phase 3.