Raising the Bar: How Radisson Hotel Group is Redefining Nigerian Hospitality
Nigeria’s hospitality landscape is undergoing a rapid evolution, with Radisson Hotel Group positioned at the vanguard of this transformation. In an exclusive conversation, Tim Cordon, COO for Middle East, Africa & SEAP, breaks down how the Group is harmonizing global excellence with local soul, driving innovation, and anchoring a long-term vision in one of Africa’s most vibrant markets.
A Market Defined by Momentum
“Nigeria is one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in Africa,” Cordon asserts. He attributes this to a potent mix of economic expansion, a burgeoning middle class, and a surge in domestic tourism. For Radisson, success in this environment requires more than just a bed and a lobby; it demands an experience that feels simultaneously world-class and authentically Nigerian.
The Sweet Spot: Global Scale, Local Soul
With a portfolio of over 100 hotels across Africa, Radisson has mastered the art of “Glocal” hospitality. In Nigeria, this manifests in menus that pair Jollof rice with international classics and hotel layouts that cater as much to corporate power-broking as they do to multi-generational family celebrations.
“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.”
Innovation Beyond the App
Today’s Nigerian traveler is tech-fluent and experience-hungry. Radisson is meeting this demand by integrating smart check-in systems and “work-from-anywhere” spaces designed for the modern nomad. Furthermore, sustainability is no longer an afterthought—it is a core pillar. From energy-efficient infrastructure to local sourcing, the Group is embedding eco-consciousness into the guest stay.
“In West Africa, we’re not just keeping up with trends, we aim to lead them,” Cordon notes. “Guests want convenience, personalization, and sustainability, and they want it delivered with genuine warmth.”
The Tech-Human Balance
While the Group leans into technology for seamless bookings and efficient service, Cordon is quick to emphasize that digital tools are meant to enhance, not replace, the human element. For the Nigerian guest, reliability and predictability remain the ultimate luxuries. Radisson’s strategy is built on this “timeless” foundation: ensuring that no matter how much tech changes, the service remains impeccable.
Sustainability: A Commitment, Not a Trend
Radisson is also tackling the “green” mandate in West Africa. By implementing energy-efficient systems and prioritizing local supply chains, the Group is reducing its footprint while supporting the local economy. For Cordon, sustainability is a prerequisite for being “here for the long haul.”
The Soul of the Group: Investing in People
The most significant missing piece in many growth stories is talent. Radisson is filling that gap. In April 2025, the Group took a decisive step by launching Radisson Academy Live in Lagos.
Since 2019, the Academy has offered 2,500+ programs, but the Lagos edition is different—it’s a hands-on, localized incubator for leadership. By upskilling local professionals in finance, operations, and revenue management, Radisson isn’t just hiring staff; it’s building the next generation of Nigerian hospitality leaders.
Resilience in a Shifting Landscape
The global market has been volatile, but Radisson’s Nigerian strategy is built on diversification. By balancing the premium Radisson Blu experience in major hubs with the efficient, accessible Park Inn by Radisson in emerging cities, the Group has created a resilient ecosystem that can weather economic shifts while capturing new “bleisure” (business + leisure) trends.
The Long View
“Nigeria is central to our African growth story,” Cordon concludes. “We are here for the long haul, and our goal is to keep raising the bar for hospitality across the country.”
Raising the Bar: How Radisson Hotel Group is Redefining Nigerian Hospitality was first published in Travels & Thrills magazine Vol 2: Issue 1.
