Africa's hospitality sector will converge in Lagos this July for crucial industry conversations. The Hotel Managers Conference Africa 2026 runs July 11-12 at Lagos Continental Hotel on Victoria Island.
This marks the eighth edition of the annual gathering. Industry leaders, experienced professionals, and stakeholders across the continent will attend.
Participants will tackle pressing sector issues and chart new directions. The conference promises networking opportunities and frank discussions on service standards.
Opay has stepped up as the headline sponsor for this year's edition. The financial technology company was a gold sponsor at last year's conference.
Olugbenga Sunday, the conference convener, unveiled the sponsorship details at a media briefing in Ikeja recently. He expressed confidence in delivering an expanded and successful event.
"We have one lead headline sponsor and over 20 confirmed sponsors," Sunday told reporters. Twenty-four speakers will address multiple panel sessions.
Chukwudinma Ezembamlu, Opay's director of hospitality, fuel and gas accounts, explained the upgrade. According to him, Opay witnessed tremendous value from last year's participation.
"Growth in the hospitality sector is faster and we want to boost the growth," Ezembamlu said. He emphasized Opay's commitment to streamlining payment systems for hotels.
Ezembamlu noted that Opay partners with numerous hospitality businesses across Nigeria. The company aims to help hotels improve efficiency and service delivery.
Opay plans a major announcement specifically for the hospitality industry at the conference. Details remain under wraps for now.
Other sponsors joining the event include Lagos Continental Hotel, Radisson Blu, and Sheraton Hotel and Towers Ikeja. Marriott Lagos Ikeja Hotel, Eko Hotel and Suites, and Black Diamond Hotel are also confirmed participants.
Nigerian Bottling Company, Glocient Hospitality, Presken, and Staycore round out the sponsorship roster. Additional partners continue confirming their participation.
Karl Hala, group general manager at Continental Hotels Group, expressed enthusiasm about hosting the conference. This marks the third consecutive year his group will serve as venue.
Sunday praised Continental Hotels' unwavering support. He assured all stakeholders of quality debates and practical takeaways from the sessions.
The convener highlighted that speakers are recognized thought leaders and sector experts. Their contributions will shape discussions across multiple themed panels.
Networking sessions will give attendees chances to build relationships and partnerships. Industry trends will feature prominently in conference programming.
Hotel managers can expect fresh insights into operational excellence. Solutions to common hospitality challenges will be explored thoroughly.
The conference aims to elevate service standards across African hospitality businesses. Participants will return home with actionable strategies for their properties.
Early registrations have reportedly been strong. The organizers expect record attendance this year.
More details about speakers and session schedules will be announced soon. Industry professionals keen on attending should keep watching for further updates.
