The International Hospitality and Tourism Expo and Forum (IHTEF 9.0) has confirmed Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre, Pedestal Hospitality, The Envoy Abuja, and Lake Greenfield Abuja as sponsors for its 2026 edition.
The event is scheduled to hold from May 22 to 23, 2026, at Abuja Continental Hotel, with a focus on “Investing in Africa’s Sustainable Hospitality Future.”
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.
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.
Speaking on the development, Executive Director of IHTEF Africa, Chibuikem Diala, said the participation of the organisations reflects ongoing shifts within the sector.
Engr. Chibuikem Diala, Executive Director of IHTEF Africa
“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,” he said.
He added that the 2026 edition would focus on practical outcomes across investment, operations, and long-term sustainability.
“The objective is to bring together stakeholders who are not just discussing growth, but actively contributing to it,” he said.
Organisers say the forum will bring together operators, investors, and policymakers to examine opportunities and challenges shaping hospitality and tourism development across Africa.