Radisson begins Benin account

Radisson Hotel Group is partnering with the Edo State Government to expand its Nigerian footprint to 12 sites.

The two parties signed for Radisson Hotel Benin City, a 169-room hotel which marks the group’s debut in Benin.

Scandinavian inspiration

Scheduled to open within the next 12 months, the property will boast an  array of Scandinavian-inspired accommodation, ranging from contemporary standard rooms to expansive executive suites, including a presidential suite.

Creating a social hub for cuisine, the hotel’s gastronomic offering will include a lobby bar and café, an all-day dining restaurant as well as a pool bar and grill. Wellness offerings will encompass a gym and spa.

Meetings provision

The site’s meetings and events spaces will consist of a 507 sq m sub-divisible ballroom, three meeting rooms and a pre-function area for a wide range of tailored events.

The Radisson Hotel Benin City will be within close proximity to various security offices, such as the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police Force, providing an additional security presence in the vicinity of the hotel.

Key market

Erwan Garnier, senior director, development for Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, said: “With our ongoing commitment to expand in Nigeria, a key market in Africa for our scaled growth and Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economy, the debut in Benin City, a key state capital, is perfectly aligned with our growth strategy for the country.

“As our first Radisson branded hotel outside of Lagos and Abuja, Radisson Hotel Benin City will continue to reinforce our brand awareness in Nigeria, especially for the Radisson brand which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. As a new, upscale, internationally branded hotel, we believe the hotel will play a significant role in promoting tourism and business activities within Benin City and the broader Edo State.”

Commitment symbol

Godwin Obaseki, the governor of Edo State, commented: “The Edo State Radisson Hotel Project represents a symbol of our commitment to fostering economic growth and transforming the landscape of our state.

“The hospitality and tourism sectors have long been recognised as powerful catalysts for economic prosperity, creating opportunities for employment, investments, and socio-cultural exchange. By embarking on this ambitious venture, we are signalling our firm belief in the potential of our state as a vibrant and thriving destination.”

New landmark

The state’s commissioner for finance, Adaze Kalu, noted: “We are sculpting the landscape of our state by creating a new landmark that will shape the perception of Edo State in the eyes of the world. We envision a future where our state is synonymous with warm hospitality, unrivalled natural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage.

“The hotel will serve as a gateway for visitors to experience the unique people, culture and treasures that Edo State holds. The Edo Radisson Hotel Project will position Edo State as a destination for capital. We are pleased to partner with the Radisson Hotel Group on this laudable project.”

Nigerian pipeline

Elsewhere, Radisson Hotel Group is pushing its Nigerian development in the two metropolises of Abuja and Lagos.

In capital city Abuja the pipeline includes two 2025 deliveries, the 104-key Radisson Blu Hotel Abuja CBD and the 249-key Radisson Collection Hotel & Conference Center Abuja. Meanwhile, projects in Lagos encompass Emerald Grand Hotel & Spa, Radisson Collection, bringing 250 rooms online in Q4 2024, and the 62-key Radisson Red Lagos VI, arriving in 2025.

RELATED ARTICLES