Organisers of the Hotel Managers Conference Africa (HMCA) have announced that the 2026 edition will spotlight innovation, capacity building, and the integration of Nigerian culture into hospitality practices. The announcement was made during a pre-conference media briefing in Lagos.
The eighth edition of the flagship event is scheduled for July 11 and 12, 2026, at the iconic Grand African Ballroom of the Lagos Continental Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos. It is expected to attract over 900 delegates from more than 16 countries, with 20+ expert speakers.
Convener Olugbenga Sunday (also referred to as Sunday Olugbenga Omotayo, Director General of HMCA) described the 2026 gathering as a significant milestone, moving beyond previous editions with scaled-up programming and a stronger focus on practical outcomes. “This edition will not be business as usual. We are scaling up in all ramifications and it will be something phenomenal,” he stated.
A core objective remains bridging the gap between international hotel brands and local operators to ensure consistent, high-quality guest experiences across the board. Sessions will emphasise sales strategies, service standards, customer experience, mentoring, and specialised breakout sessions tailored to different professionals in the sector.
The conference will actively promote the integration of Nigerian culture into hospitality offerings. “Every tourist experience begins with hospitality. From our cuisine to decor, hotels are already integrating Nigerian culture into their services,” Sunday noted. The event will encourage greater use of local content, including indigenous foods, art, and design, to enrich guest experiences while boosting cultural tourism.
This aligns with the broader vision of the HMCA, established in 2016, which focuses on skills upgrading, networking, and professional development for hotel managers and hospitality leaders across Africa. Previous editions have grown steadily—from 86 participants in the first edition to hundreds in recent years, including international attendees.
Stakeholders highlighted persistent challenges such as funding constraints and insecurity, which continue to hinder sector growth. They stressed the need for a stable environment to attract investment and unlock Nigeria’s potential as a hospitality and cultural tourism hub.
General Manager of Ogeyi Place Hotel, Ebikaboere Seimodei, praised the conference as a trusted platform for idea exchange and partnerships. Director of Hospitality Key Account Business at Opay, Chukwudimma Ezembamalu, noted the partnership aims to tackle payment solutions in the sector.
Keynote Speakers and Format
The 2026 programme features a robust lineup of speakers, including:
Karl Hala, Group General Manager, Continental Hotels Nigeria
Lydia Akunja, Lecturer, Department of Hotel and Hospitality Management, Moi University, Kenya
Dr. Michael Pinder, General Manager, JS Signature Hotel, Port Harcourt
Justina Ovat, National President, Women in Hospitality Nigeria
Amir M. Adamu, Founder, Hospitality Innovation and Leadership Forum, Cameroon
And others, including Olajide Abiola and Sharafa Lanre Balogun.
The format includes keynote addresses, interactive workshops, panel discussions, and an awards segment recognising excellence in hospitality operations. The event also incorporates monthly masterclasses and maintains a growing professional network of nearly 1,000 members.
Nigeria’s hospitality industry, particularly in Lagos with thousands of hotels, plays a pivotal role in the country’s tourism and economic development. By focusing on innovation—such as technology adoption and resilient operational models—alongside cultural authenticity, the conference aims to position Nigerian hospitality competitively on the continental and global stage.
As preparations intensify, industry watchers anticipate actionable insights and strengthened collaborations that will elevate service standards, drive investment, and celebrate the unique blend of professionalism and rich Nigerian heritage in African hospitality.
Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now open via the official HMCA website.
