By Ayo Oyoze Baje
According to an expert on the alluring yet, competitive hospitality industry, Chris Rios writing for ‘Room Master’ media outlet, to run a successful hotel business begins by embracing technological advancements, prioritizing sustainability, investing in your team by frequent training programs and empowerment as well as personalizing guest experiences. Other facilitating factors include that of leveraging on digital marketing, optimizing revenue, and maintaining rigorous financial controls. With these factors well articulated and applied hotels can navigate the competitive landscape with confidence.
Interestingly, out there in the ever-busy Lagos metropolis is one rare gem of a hotel business manager
making the desired difference as a true game-changer. He is none other than the seasoned General Manager of Radisson Blu hotel, Ikeja,Lagos, Noel Christophe. Over the years he has exemplified astute management of men and materials of the globally-recognized Five-Star hotel and standing tall at that, especially under the current harsh economic situation. But truth be told, doing so is not a picnic in paradise. Not at all! What however, does it really demand? That is the million-naira question. The answer, as they say comes from the horse”s mouth.
So, in a recent exciting media engagement with a team of experts on tourism including Ambassador Ayo Omotoso, the CEO of Travelogue he beamed brighter light on some related, critical issues. These include what makes up the magic wand he and his highly committed management team have woven to take the 155-bedroom Raddisson Blu hotel, covering 46 square kilometers to higher ground. Another question has to do with the term ‘Detty December’ which has become a trending phenomenon,.Did the hotel experience a good turnout of visitors during the 2025 Chrudtmas Season? And he was humbly requested to share his experiences regarding the Radisson Blu hotel,in Ikeja Lagos.
Beaming with a warm smile, he stated that: “The ‘Detty December’ concept is an interesting one and yes, it contributed positively to our bottom line. We had full-on bookings in all areas of the hotel, from room lodging to the restaurants and bar outlets.
“Whilst the boom was very positive, it must be said that it is the kind of business environment and demand that we want to see sustained in the Lagos hospitality and travel market. We would like to see such demand extend beyond the December period to becoming consistent all year long.” That is a heart-warming insight is it not? Yes, it us.
The next question weng thus; ” During Detty December, it was documented that all hotels were fully booked. Also, what activities do you have planned to attract guests during subsequent ones?”
With his proud pedigree in the business he confidently explained that: ” As said, yes, our hotel and all outlets within were fully booked all through the peak festive season. It is unrealistic at this time to state activities or packages and deals that would come up during the December period this year as we are just beginning the year, 2026.
“However, when the time comes, we will have special packages and offers available for all guests. These packages come in tiers, so there is always an exciting deal for every guest and across all strata of business travellers, leisure seekers, local or international guests, couples, family, group travellers of i.e. friends and colleagues, individual travellers etc. We can guarantee that there will be something exciting and worth-while for everyone”, he assured.
Expectedly, the subsequent question was on the
Valentine’s Day and if the hotel has any Romantic Hospitality package designed for the prospective guests?”
?He explained that: ” Valentine’s Day
is a celebration for the loved ones, making it memorable, Our promise is to create memorable moments for all our guests and this season makes the delivery of our unique services even more special. The Valentine’s, guests can have a luxury stay with us, combined with an exquisite dining experience at affordable rates.
” Truly, we have something special for everyone. Beyond the romantic getaway lodging that offers unique treats and in-room services, there is much more to do within the hotel. We have a variety of dining outlets that offer something unique for every taste bud. For guests who like a wide selection of meals and flavours, our Iyeru Okin restaurant is open all day, beginning with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For guests with refined palettes and seeking more delicate meals within a heightened romantic atmosphere, our specialty restaurant CUT is also open, serving the finest cuts of steak, choice wine, sea food options and more, all made with the freshest ingredients and mouth-watering flavours.
” We have private dining areas that are fully exclusive and are open for use. Our hotel bar is known to offer one of the best evening and weekend hangout experience on the mainland and light meals with choice drinks can be sampled here. This Valentine’s we will be hosting an exciting pop-up dining experience with Diageo as a collaborative initiative, it promises to offer more unforgettable moments to our esteemed guests. There really is something for everyone, couples, and singles alike.
.”To wrap up the special treats, guests can also indulge in the most relaxing pampering session available at the acclaimed Amani Spa Lagos which is undoubtedly the best spa in this city. In all, we have so much and more to offer, and we invite guests to come and explore the taste of Blu Ikeja and create new memories this season and beyond.” Brilliant submissions, you would admit.
With all of these tension-easing offerings provided under a cool, calm and scenic environnent at affordable cost, it is no longer a surprise that Radisson Blu has become a destination of choice for members of several enlightened organizations, fun-seeking couples and tourists from across the globe. And it is all because of the best products, cuisines and services it provides for all the visitors. We give big kudos to the Christophe-led management team of the hotel and urge it to keep up the great work.
