Hospitality News South Africa

Hilton Garden Inn to open in Nigeria

Hilton Worldwide have announced the signing of its first Hilton Garden Inn hotel for sub-Sahara Africa, in Nigeria's South East city of Uyo.

The 250-room Hilton Garden Inn Uyo, Nigeria, which is currently under construction, will form part of a highly anticipated, multi-purpose leisure complex comprising the city's biggest sports and entertainment centre, a shopping mall and the Ibom Tropicana Water and Fun Park. With an expected opening date of early 2015, the hotel will be ideally located for easy access to Akwa Ibom International Airport and conveniently close to Uyo's central business district and the upcoming convention centre, also forecast to open in 2015.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, Development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide said, "Africa is a vital growth market for us and this announcement further strengthens our commitment to the continent and to Nigeria in particular, where Hilton Worldwide has enjoyed a presence for almost 26 years. We're looking forward to expanding in this strategically important economic region and welcome the opportunity to become part of Uyo's growing, energetic city community."

Designed to appeal to both the business and leisure traveller, amenities at Hilton Garden Inn Uyo, Nigeria will include a 24-hour business centre, six multi-sized meeting rooms, complimentary high speed internet access, a state of the art gym, outdoor swimming pool and a choice of three restaurants and bars.

Adrian Kurre, global head, Hilton Garden Inn said, "Today is an exciting milestone for Hilton Garden Inn as we look forward to introducing our award winning services and style to the Nigerian market. The brand combines the best of Hilton's trademark hospitality and innovation at a value for money, mid-range cost and we're confident this latest addition to the portfolio will prove as popular and successful in Uyo as it is in over 570 different locations around the world."

Chief Godswill Akpabio, governor of Akwa Ibom State Government commented "We've seen travel to the region grow considerably over the past few years and as that trend continues then quality hospitality infrastructure is crucial to sustain future success. We know that in Hilton Worldwide we have the right company and management partner and together we are committed to creating a world-class property with inviting facilities and service."

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