IHG Signs Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja, Marking Strategic Expansion in West Africa
IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja, a 119-room hotel set to open in early 2028. The property will operate under a franchise agreement with Watercress Hotel International Limited. It will be managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, a global leader in full-service hotel management and one of IHG’s trusted international partners.
This signing marks a significant milestone in IHG’s expansion strategy across Africa and underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence in high-growth cities.
Strategic Location in the Heart of Lagos
Centrally located in Ikeja, Lagos’ administrative, aviation, and commercial district, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will offer guests convenient access to major landmarks, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja City Mall, corporate offices, embassies, and cultural attractions such as the Nike Art Gallery.
The hotel’s prime positioning also enables direct connectivity to Lagos’ coastal attractions, including Tarkwa Bay Beach and Elegushi Beach, making it an appealing destination for international business travellers and leisure guests.
Elevated Offerings for the Modern Traveller
Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will debut the brand’s hallmark features in West Africa, including:
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Plaza Workspace is a next-generation, design-led environment that enables collaboration, informal meetings, and flexibility for business travellers.
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WorkLife Rooms – rooms thoughtfully designed to support productivity, relaxation, and seamless transitions between work and rest.
The hotel aims to set a new benchmark in comfort, functionality, and guest experience within the Lagos hospitality sector.
Leadership Perspectives
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts – India, Middle East & Africa, commented:
“Lagos is one of Africa’s most dynamic commercial and cultural hubs, and we are delighted to strengthen our footprint in this pivotal market with the signing of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja. Nigeria holds strong growth potential, and Lagos, as a key economic and transport centre, aligns perfectly with our strategic expansion plans in the region.”
Samuel Ayinde, Executive Director, Watercress Hotel International Limited, added:
“We are proud to collaborate with IHG to introduce the globally recognised Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos. This partnership is a step forward in our mission to elevate hospitality standards in Nigeria by creating a landmark property that reflects the energy, ambition, and global outlook of Lagos.”
Addition to the Crowne Plaza Global Portfolio
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, balance of work and leisure, and commitment to enhancing guest well-being and productivity.
Expert Advisory and Development Support
The transaction was advised by Olayiwola Matthew, Founder of HeroPlus Hospitality Consulting, who served as the development advisor and hospitality consultant to Watercress Hotel International Limited. His role included strategic brand selection, market feasibility assessment, operator negotiations, and successful execution of the franchise agreement.
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