IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in hospitality, has announced the signing of a franchise agreement with Watercress Hotel International Limited for the development of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja, marking a significant step in the company’s strategic expansion into West Africa.
The 119-room hotel is slated to open in early 2028 and will be managed by Valour Hospitality Partners, an internationally recognised hotel operator and long-standing IHG partner. This move further cements IHG’s commitment to strengthening its presence in key African markets by offering globally recognised brands tailored to evolving travel needs.
Speaking on the agreement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director for India, Middle East & Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said the signing was a pivotal moment for the group’s West African strategy.
“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,” Mattar said in a statement issued Wednesday.
The hotel will be located in Ikeja, a fast-growing district known for its government, commercial and aviation activity. Positioned near Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja City Mall, and cultural landmarks like the Nike Art Gallery, the hotel is expected to appeal to both business and leisure travellers.
IHG said the new hotel will feature signature Crowne Plaza amenities, including the Plaza Workspace—a flexible environment designed for collaboration—and WorkLife Rooms, which blend comfort and functionality for today’s mobile workforce.
Mattar added that Lagos’ role as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre made it a natural choice for expansion:
“Nigeria continues to show strong potential for growth, and Lagos, being a key economic and transportation hub, aligns well with our long-term development strategy across the region.”
Samuel Ayinde, Executive Director at Watercress Hotel International Limited, described the collaboration as a major step toward redefining hospitality standards in Nigeria.
“We are proud to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce the globally recognised Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos,” Ayinde said.
“Our vision for this property 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.”
The hotel will be part of a global network of over 400 Crowne Plaza properties and will play a role in diversifying Nigeria’s hospitality offerings while contributing to local economic development and tourism.
The franchise agreement was facilitated by HeroPlus Hospitality Consulting, with founder Olayiwola Matthew serving as the lead development advisor and hospitality consultant. Matthew oversaw key aspects of the transaction, including brand selection, feasibility studies, operator negotiations, and deal execution.
Once operational, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will join IHG’s growing portfolio in Africa, which includes brands such as InterContinental, Holiday Inn, and voco, catering to a wide range of traveller preferences and market segments.
