From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
A new co-working facility launched in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, is set to boost job creation, attract foreign investment, and support Nigeria’s expanding community of entrepreneurs and mobile professionals.
Unveiled on Wednesday, June 11, the modern workspace is the product of a strategic partnership between global flexible office provider, Regus, and hospitality giant, Chelsea Hotel.
The hub, located within the Chelsea Hotel premises in the Central Business District, offers high-speed internet, round-the-clock power, meeting rooms, and access to a global network of Regus offices across the world.
Speaking at the launch, Regus Country Manager, Ayo Akinmade, said the initiative is part of plans to build a strong business support infrastructure in Nigeria despite the country’s challenging economic climate.
Akinmade disclosed that the facility is already attracting international clients and will drive significant economic ripple effects.
“Our first users here were Chinese companies now operating in Nigeria. They are hiring staff, paying taxes, charging VAT, and that value trickles down across the economy,” Akinmade said.
He noted that beyond rent revenue, the impact extends to hospitality, security, transportation, and food vendors serving clients who use the space.
“It is not just about workspaces. This creates entire ecosystems: a person makes money, buys a car, the car dealer earns, the car washer gets paid. That is the kind of chain we are building,” he added.
Despite challenges in Nigeria’s business environment, Akinmade urged entrepreneurs to remain focused and resilient.
“The business climate is hard. But if you believe, work hard, and pray, you will find a way. That is how we are still growing,” he said.
Executive Director of the hotel, Chidinma Chidolue, said the collaboration marks a step into the future of work and the drive to diversify.
According to her, “We have been in the hospitality business for decades, but the world has changed. People want to work from anywhere. This partnership helps us meet that demand,” she said.
Chidolue said the goal is to replicate the Regus partnership in other Chelsea locations across the country.
She, however, called on the government to offer more tangible support to businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors, noting that Abuja’s potential remains vastly untapped.
“Abuja has incredible sites and cultural spaces. If we invest properly, tourism can become a major driver of Nigeria’s economy,” she said.