By Ephraim Oseji

The International Hospitality and Tourism Expo and Forum (IHTEF 9.0) has concluded plans for the 2026 edition of the industry conference scheduled to hold on May 22 and 23, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

The organisers also confirmed that some of the Nigerian hospitality giants; Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, Pedestal Hospitality, The Envoy Abuja, and Lake Greenfield Abuja are tipped as sponsors for this 2026 edition.

With the theme: “Investing in Africa’s Sustainable Hospitality Future,” the organisers say the forum will bring together operators, investors, and policymakers to examine opportunities and challenges shaping hospitality and tourism development across Africa.

Executive Director of IHTEF Africa, Chibuikem Diala, while speaking ahead of the event mentioned that the participation of the organisations reflects ongoing shifts within the sector.

“The industry is seeing stronger alignment between destination development, local brands, and experience-driven hospitality. The presence of these organisations at IHTEF reflects that direction,” remarked Diala, adding that the 2026 edition would focus on practical outcomes across investment, operations, and long-term sustainability.

Diala also noted that the objective is to bring together stakeholders who are not just discussing growth, but actively contributing to it.

Expressing confidence in the pedigree of some of the industry giants throwing their weight behind the 2026 expo, Diala disclosed that Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, operated by Glocient Hospitality, is expected to be led at the forum by its General Manager, Lanre Sharafa Balogun.

“In recent years, the resort has undergone repositioning, with renewed focus on eco-tourism, leisure travel, and corporate retreats.

“Glocient Hospitality, a growing indigenous hospitality platform, is recognised for combining investment discipline with execution-led delivery in destination development. Its work at Ikogosi reflects a broader effort to reposition underperforming tourism assets into viable, experience-driven destinations,” Diala stated.

In addition, he mentioned that Pedestal Hospitality, an emerging indigenous hotel company, will also participate.
“The company operates Tripod by Pedestal and is expanding its portfolio with new developments, including Softlife by Pedestal and Lakeside by Pedestal.”

Also listed among sponsors are The Envoy Abuja, AATC Onomo Hotel and Lake Greenfield Abuja, both contributing to the growing mix of hospitality and lifestyle offerings within Nigeria’s urban and leisure markets.

Diala beamed with optimism that the convergence of the industry giants at the 2026 hospitality would unleash the expected ideations for industry growth and sustainability.