Ascott signs franchise deal for Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos, strengthening presence in Africa

NIGERIA – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a leading international lodging operator and wholly owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Investment, has signed a franchise agreement for Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos, a new serviced residence in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.

Announced at FHS World Dubai, this marks another milestone in Ascott’s expansion across the Middle East and Africa.

Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos, a greenfield development by Admiralty Hotel Company Limited and operated by Aleph Hospitality, will feature 135 purpose-built serviced apartments.

Scheduled to open in October 2028, the property will offer premium amenities including a restaurant and bar, meeting rooms, a swimming pool, and fitness centre.

This signing complements Ascott’s upcoming Citadines Purplelekki Lagos, expanding its footprint in Nigeria’s dynamic hospitality market.

Ascott’s Africa portfolio now includes 22 properties in countries such as Kenya, Morocco, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Senegal, with over 2,500 units operational or under development.

Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director for Middle East, Africa, and Turkey at Ascott, emphasized Nigeria’s strong market fundamentals, driven by its young population, vibrant private sector, and growing international connectivity.

Collaboration with trusted partners allows Ascott to bring its global standards and established client base to more markets, creating value for owners, partners, and guests.

The partnership aligns with Ascott’s regional strategy to achieve 20% annual growth over the next five years across the MEAT region.

By 2030, Ascott aims to double its regional portfolio to 15,000 units through franchise agreements with leading developers and operators.

Located in Lekki near key commercial hubs like Victoria Island and the Lekki Free Trade Zone, the property benefits from Lagos’ rapid infrastructure growth, including the Lekki Deep Seaport and proposed new airport.

Lagos attracts over 1.3 million international visitors annually and hosts many multinational corporate headquarters.

Olumide Mabawonku of Admiralty Hotel Company Limited highlighted the goal of delivering a premium, distinctive hospitality experience reflecting Lagos’ vibrancy.

Aleph Hospitality’s Bani Haddad echoed confidence in combining operational expertise with Ascott’s global standards to optimize guest experiences and maximize value.

Ascott’s Project and Technical Services team will oversee design compliance and sustainability throughout development, ensuring Somerset’s brand standards are upheld in line with future traveller expectations.

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