Driving Strategic Partnerships in Nigeria’s Hospitality Sector

Hotel Expo Nigeria (HEN) has unveiled a new networking initiative aimed at driving strategic partnerships, business collaborations, and investment opportunities in Nigeria’s hospitality industry. The announcement comes as the organizers prepare for the seventh edition of the expo, which is scheduled to take place at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos on September 28 and 29, 2026.

Adopting the theme “Unlock, Explore, Build,” the 2026 edition seeks to reposition the annual gathering as a platform for actionable results. The new HEN Networking Roundtable is specifically designed to move the event beyond simple exhibition and visibility, creating practical avenues for stakeholders to establish partnerships and secure high-value deals within the sector.

Transitioning from Visibility to Tangible Value

The convener of the event, Joe Hanson, emphasized that the initiative marks a significant evolution for the expo. By focusing on value rather than just visibility, the organizers hope to provide a space where industry contacts can be translated into sustainable business outcomes that impact the trajectory of participating organizations.

The next phase of HEN is about moving from visibility to value. We want people to leave HEN with more than contacts and conversations; we want them to leave with opportunities, collaborations, partnership and deals that can change the trajectory of their businesses. ‘Unlock, Explore, Build’ is not just a theme for us - it is a call to action for the industry.

— Joe Hanson, Convener, Hotel Expo Nigeria

Co-Founder Michael Yanai expressed similar confidence in the initiative, noting that the curated nature of the Roundtable will allow for deeper engagement. The platform will bring together hotel owners, hospitality consultants, investors, technology providers, and various brands to identify areas of mutual interest through structured discussions.

The curated nature of the Roundtable would enable stakeholders to engage more directly, identify areas of mutual interest and explore practical opportunities for collaboration.

— Michael Yanai, Co-Founder, Hotel Expo Nigeria

Innovative Programming and Sector Growth

A major structural change for the 2026 programme is the replacement of traditional panel sessions with “Talk Sessions.” This new format will feature highly engaging, 10-minute presentations focused on single ideas and problem-solving. This shift is intended to provide more intentional opportunities for stakeholders to connect and address the specific needs of Nigeria’s hospitality ecosystem, which is currently valued at over $1.5 billion.

The event will feature a diverse array of speakers from across the hospitality, investment, and technology sectors, including:

• Millie Slade, Co-Founder, Jara Beach Resort & Lufasi Lodges
• Salome Danjuma, Food, Beverage and Spa Manager, The Wheatbaker Hotel
• Toni Ukachukwu, CEO, Aviators Magazine
• Moyo Ogunsiende, Group CEO, Club Conceirge International and GoTravelCC
• Kofi Abunu, Managing Director and CEO, Food Concepts Plc
• Dr. Titilayo Fowokan, Principal Consultant, FTE Consulting
• Trevor Ward, MD, W-Hospitality Group

As the industry continues to respond to shifting customer expectations and technological trends, HEN 2026 aims to provide a roadmap for sustainable growth. By placing greater emphasis on business relationships and actionable solutions, the expo seeks to shape the next phase of the hospitality industry in Nigeria.