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By Okorie Uguru
Radisson Hotel Group Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia Mr. Tim Cordon has said the international hospitality brand’s presence in Nigeria is for the long haul, describing the Nigerian hospitality market as one of the most dynamic in Africa.
Speaking to the media recently on the activities and vision of the group in Nigeria, Cordon said the group is blending global standards with local culture, driving innovation, and setting the stage for long-term growth in one of Africa’s most dynamic markets. He said: “Nigeria is one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in Africa,” says Cordon. “The combination of economic growth, an expanding middle class, and rising domestic travel creates strong potential for quality hotels that deliver both global standards and local character.”
For Radisson Hotel Group, he said, this involves going beyond simply offering a place to stay, insisting that hotels must deliver experiences that feel both world-class and uniquely Nigerian, and that with more than 100 hotels in operation and development across Africa, Radisson has learned how to balance consistency with cultural authenticity.
“Hospitality is local at its core,” says Cordon. “Our role is to bring the strength of a global brand while ensuring our hotels reflect the tastes, traditions, and priorities of the communities they serve.”
He noted that the Nigerian travellers are increasingly tech-savvy and experience-driven, and as such the hotel has to respond. Radisson with smart check-in systems, flexible work-and-play spaces, and event venues designed for both hybrid meetings and vibrant social gatherings.
“In West Africa, we’re not just keeping up with trends, we aim to lead them,” Cordon noted. “Guests want convenience, personalization, and sustainability, and they want it delivered with genuine warmth.”
He said the international hospitality brand’s strategy in Nigeria was predicated on collaboration with local communities and organisations. This he said, is also seen in its approach to technology, saying while the hospitality landscape will continue to evolve with new technologies and shifting guest expectations, some fundamentals will always matter to Nigerian guests: convenience, reliability, and predictability.
“Our strategies are built to adapt,” says Cordon, “ensuring that we stay timeless, even as trends come and go.”
Cordon said Radisson’s growth in Nigeria was anchored in talent development, noting that in April this year, the Group launched its first Radisson Academy Live in Lagos, part of its global learning and development platform designed to up-skill hospitality professionals. Also since its inception in 2019, Radisson Academy has grown to offer over 2,500 training programmes, spanning leadership, hotel operations, sales, revenue management, and finance. The Lagos edition adds a hands-on element tailored to Nigeria, empowering local talent and building clear career pathways.
“Nigeria is central to our African growth story,” says Cordon. “We’re here for the long haul, and our goal is to keep raising the bar for hospitality across the country.”
