Ascott Expands African Portfolio with New Somerset Serviced Residence in Lagos’ Lekki District

The African hospitality landscape is set for a significant transformation as The Ascott Limited, a global leader in lodging operations and a subsidiary of CapitaLand Investment, has formalized a franchise agreement for the upcoming Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos. This new serviced residence, strategically located in the vibrant Lekki area of Lagos, Nigeria, marks a pivotal step in Ascott’s ongoing expansion across the Middle East and Africa. The agreement was signed during the prestigious FHS World Dubai, a key event for hospitality and investment leaders, underscoring Ascott’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Africa’s most dynamic markets.

Developed as a greenfield project by Admiralty Hotel Company Limited and managed by Aleph Hospitality, Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos is designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers to Africa. The property will feature 135 purpose-built serviced apartments, each tailored for comfort, flexibility, and contemporary living. The scheduled opening in October 2028 is highly anticipated, with the residence set to offer a comprehensive suite of premium amenities, including a restaurant and bar, meeting rooms, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. These facilities are crafted to appeal to both business and leisure guests, reflecting the growing demand for high-quality, flexible accommodation in Lagos.

This latest signing not only reinforces Ascott’s growing footprint in Nigeria but also complements its upcoming projects, such as the Citadines Purplelekki Lagos. With Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos, Ascott’s African portfolio now encompasses 22 properties across key markets including Kenya, Morocco, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Senegal. Collectively, these properties represent more than 2,500 units in operation and under development, positioning Ascott as a formidable player in the continent’s hospitality sector.

The partnership is a cornerstone of Ascott’s broader regional strategy, which aims for 20% annual growth over the next five years across the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey (MEAT) region. By 2030, Ascott’s ambition is to have 15,000 units in operation or under development, effectively doubling its regional portfolio. This growth will be driven by an expanded franchise model and close collaboration with leading developers and operators, ensuring that Ascott’s brand standards and guest experience benchmarks are consistently met.

Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial powerhouse, continues to attract robust hospitality demand from both international and domestic travelers. The city welcomes over 1.3 million international visitors annually and serves as a hub for major multinational corporations. Rapid infrastructure development, such as the Lekki Deep Seaport and a proposed new airport, is further enhancing Lagos’ appeal as a business and leisure destination. Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos is ideally situated along Admiralty Way in Lekki, offering convenient access to Victoria Island and the Lekki Free Trade Zone. This prime location ensures guests are well-connected to key commercial, financial, and lifestyle destinations, making the property an attractive choice for a diverse clientele.

Currently at the pre-design stage, the project will benefit from the expertise of Ascott’s Project and Technical Services (PTS) team, who will work closely with the appointed architect and Aleph Hospitality throughout the development process. This collaboration is crucial to ensuring that the property adheres to Somerset’s brand specifications, meets rigorous sustainability benchmarks, and delivers a consistently high standard of guest experience. The focus on sustainability is particularly relevant as African markets increasingly prioritize eco-friendly development and responsible tourism practices.

Ascott’s expansion in Africa is not just about increasing its property count; it is about setting new standards in hospitality and responding to the continent’s rapidly changing travel landscape. The company’s strategy is rooted in understanding the unique needs of African markets, from the rise of business travel and urbanization to the growing appetite for lifestyle-oriented accommodation. By introducing internationally recognized brands like Somerset and Citadines, Ascott is helping to elevate the quality and diversity of lodging options available across Africa.

For the African travel sector, the arrival of Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos signals a broader shift towards premium serviced residences that blend the comforts of home with the amenities of a hotel. This trend is expected to reshape the region’s hospitality offerings, providing new opportunities for local operators, developers, and service providers. Ascott’s franchise model, in particular, opens doors for African partners to leverage global expertise while tailoring services to local preferences and market dynamics.

The momentum generated by this project is likely to have a ripple effect across the continent, encouraging further investment in hospitality infrastructure and supporting the growth of Africa’s tourism and business travel sectors. Ascott’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and partnership sets a benchmark for others to follow, ensuring that Africa remains at the forefront of global hospitality trends.

As the continent continues to urbanize and attract international attention, projects like Somerset Admiralty Way Lagos will play a crucial role in shaping the future of African hospitality. The property’s strategic location, comprehensive amenities, and alignment with global standards position it as a flagship development for both Ascott and the broader African market. For industry professionals, this development is a clear signal that Africa’s hospitality sector is entering a new era—one defined by quality, innovation, and sustainable growth.