IHG Expands West African Footprint with Signing of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja
Nigeria’s hospitality sector has gained a significant boost as IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja, a 119-room hotel set to open in early 2028.
The new property marks a strategic move in IHG’s broader expansion across Africa and signals the company’s reinforced commitment to the West African market.
The development will be delivered through a franchise agreement with Watercress Hotel International Limited and managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, a globally respected hotel management firm and longstanding partner of IHG.
Once operational, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will become a key addition to IHG’s growing portfolio in Africa and is poised to redefine business and leisure hospitality in Lagos.
Strategically located in the dynamic Ikeja district — the commercial, aviation, and administrative heart of Lagos — the hotel will offer seamless access to major landmarks including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja City Mall, and a host of embassies and corporate offices.
Cultural hotspots such as the Nike Art Gallery will also be within reach, as will popular waterfront leisure destinations including Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi beaches.
The hotel will feature hallmark innovations of the Crowne Plaza brand, including the Plaza Workspace — a next-generation, design-led environment encouraging productivity and collaboration — and WorkLife Rooms, which blend comfort and functionality for both work and relaxation. These features aim to serve the needs of international business travellers, government delegations, and upscale leisure guests.
Speaking on the development, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director for India, Middle East & Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated: “Lagos is one of Africa’s most influential commercial and cultural centres, and we are pleased to expand our presence in this strategic market with the signing of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja. Nigeria continues to show strong potential for growth, and Lagos – as a key economic and transportation hub – aligns well with our long-term development strategy across the region.”
Echoing this optimism, Samuel Ayinde, Executive Director of Watercress Hotel International Limited, remarked: “We are proud to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce the globally recognised Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos. Our vision is to create a landmark hotel that reflects the energy and ambition of Lagos, while not only meeting but exceeding the international standards expected by modern travellers. This collaboration aligns with our long-term goals to contribute to Nigeria’s hospitality landscape through innovation, quality, and guest-centric experiences.”
Upon its opening, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will join the ranks of over 400 Crowne Plaza hotels and resorts worldwide. The brand is celebrated for its contemporary design, seamless blend of work and leisure functionality, and a strong appeal to today’s global professionals.
The signing deal was facilitated by Olayiwola Matthew, Founder of HeroPlus Hospitality Consulting, who served as development advisor and hospitality consultant to Watercress Hotel International Limited.
Matthew played a crucial role in brand selection, feasibility studies, operator negotiations, and the successful execution of the transaction.
With this new addition, IHG Hotels & Resorts continues to cement its presence as a major player in Africa’s evolving hospitality landscape.
