IHG Hotels & Resorts expands to Lagos with Crowne Plaza, Ikeja MoU signing. By Pearl Ngwama
IHG Hotels & Resorts expands to Lagos with Crowne Plaza, Ikeja MoU signing
In a move to expand its West African portfolio, a global hospitality giant, IHG Hotels & Resorts, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce Crowne Plaza Ikeja in Lagos.
The move, is aimed to further expand its footprint in West Africa.
The upcoming Crowne Plaza, a 119-room hotel, is scheduled to open in early 2028 under a franchise agreement with Watercress Hotel International Limited.
The hotel will be managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, a trusted IHG partner and global leader in hotel management and operations.
This signing marks a significant milestone in IHG’s strategic expansion across Africa, reinforcing the company’s commitment to growing its footprint in key cities across the continent.
Strategically located in the vibrant Ikeja district Lagos’ administrative, aviation, and commercial hub, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will offer seamless access to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja City Mall, major corporate offices, embassies, and cultural attractions like the Nike Art Gallery.
Its prime location will also connect guests to Lagos’ popular coastal destinations, including Tarkwa Bay Beach and Elegushi Beach, providing leisure travellers with the opportunity to enjoy the city’s vibrant waterfront experiences.
Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will introduce the brand’s signature features to West Africa, including the next-generation Plaza Workspace, a flexible, design-led environment that supports collaboration and informal meetings.
Guests will also experience the innovative WorkLife Rooms, designed for a seamless blend of work and relaxation.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said the move was a strategic step for the brand: “Lagos is one of Africa’s most influential commercial and cultural centres, and we are delighted to expand our presence in this vital market. Nigeria shows strong growth potential, and Lagos, as an economic and transport hub, fits well with our long-term development strategy.”
Executive Director at Watercress Hotel International Limited, Samuel Ayinde, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are proud to work with IHG to bring the globally recognised Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos. Our vision is to create a landmark hotel that captures the spirit and ambition of the city, while exceeding the expectations of modern travellers.”
Upon completion, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will join IHG’s global network of over 400 Crowne Plaza hotels and resorts, known for their contemporary design and guest-focused experiences that help travellers balance work and leisure.
The transaction was facilitated by Olayiwola Matthew, Founder of HeroPlus Hospitality Consulting, who provided strategic support in brand selection, market analysis, operator negotiations, and deal execution.
