Martin Bredenoord is the general manager of Sheraton Lagos Hotel, who leads a team of hospitality professionals to deliver high-quality service offerings, amid world-class facilities.
In this interview, he shares insights on the role of the pioneer hotel in the development of Nigeria’s hospitality industry, why it is still thriving after four decades in business, the changing landscape of the industry, especially with technology, sustainability practice, place of human capital in the business, and his message on World Tourism Day 2026. Excerpt.
Sheraton Lagos has been part of Nigeria’s hospitality landscape for more than four decades. What does that history mean to the hotel and the wider tourism industry?
Sheraton Lagos opened its doors in 1985, at a time when Nigeria was beginning to strengthen its position as an important business and travel destination in Africa. Over the past four decades, we have had the privilege of being part of the country’s evolving hospitality and tourism story.
For us, that history represents much more than longevity. It represents continuity, resilience, adaptation and the responsibility that comes with being an institution within an industry.
Generations of business travellers, diplomats, tourists, families, airline crews and Nigerians returning home have passed through our doors. We have hosted major meetings, conferences, celebrations and events that have brought people together from across Nigeria and the world.
Our location in Ikeja, close to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, has also positioned Sheraton Lagos as an important gateway for visitors arriving in Lagos.
So, when we speak about our history, we are really speaking about the history of the people, businesses and travelers who have contributed to Nigeria’s hospitality ecosystem over the years.
As a pioneer in the industry, how would you describe Sheraton Lagos’ role in the development of the tourism and hospitality industry?
I would describe Sheraton Lagos as one of the pioneering internationally branded hotels that helped establish global hospitality standards within Nigeria.
Bringing an international hospitality brand into a developing market introduces systems, operating standards, service culture, training frameworks, and a level of consistency that can influence the wider industry.
Over the years, Sheraton Lagos has served not only as a hotel, but also as a training ground for hospitality professionals. Many people who began their careers here have gone on to hold leadership positions across Nigeria and other parts of the world.
We have also contributed to the business tourism ecosystem by providing accommodation, meeting spaces, food and beverage experiences and event facilities for corporate and international visitors.
Ultimately, our role has been to help connect Nigeria to the global hospitality ecosystem while ensuring that the experience remains relevant to the Nigerian market.