Leading hospitality brand, The Jagz Hotel, has unveiled Mr. Jonathan Odia as its new General Manager and announced plans for the second edition of The Jagz Hospitality Conference scheduled for 2026.
Speaking at a press conference in Ibadan on Monday, the Managing Director of The Jagz, Mr. Lugard Agbomoagan, said Odia’s appointment reflects the hotel’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team, enhancing operational standards, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Agbomoagan noted that since commencing operations 20 months ago, The Jagz has grown from a new entrant in the hospitality industry into a respected brand known for excellence, innovation, and African-inspired hospitality.
“When we opened our doors, our vision was simple but bold: to create a hospitality experience without borders and limits in Africa—one that is luxurious, authentic, and proudly African. Today, we are proud of the progress we have made in maintaining high standards and building lasting relationships with our guests,” he said.
According to him, the hotel has recorded strong and steadily growing occupancy levels, expanded its corporate clientele base, increased brand recognition within and beyond Africa, and continuously improved service delivery and guest satisfaction.
He disclosed that the hotel is currently pursuing expansion plans, including additional rooms, upgraded facilities, improved infrastructure, and a strategic expansion to Abuja as part of its ambition to become a leading hospitality destination in the region.
“The Jagz is positioning itself as an emerging African hospitality brand with a long-term continental outlook. As Africa experiences increased trade, investment opportunities, and cross-border business engagements, hospitality brands must evolve to serve a new generation of African and international travellers,” he said.
As part of its contribution to industry development, Agbomoagan announced that the 2026 Jagz Hospitality Conference will focus on the theme, “Electioneering and Hotels in Nigeria.”
He explained that the conference would examine the relationship between political activities, election cycles, and the hospitality industry, while exploring strategies for sustaining growth and resilience during election periods.
According to him, the conference will bring together policymakers, hospitality operators, investors, security experts, and industry leaders to discuss critical issues affecting the sector.
He further revealed that the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, and other prominent stakeholders are expected to speak at the conference.
Agbomoagan said the conference is designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and fresh ideas that will help shape the future of Nigeria’s hospitality industry.
Speaking on Odia’s appointment, the Managing Director described him as a seasoned hospitality professional whose experience with internationally recognised hotel brands would strengthen The Jagz’s operations and support its next phase of growth.
“A brand like The Jagz needs an experienced hospitality professional whose career includes valuable experience with internationally recognised brands. His appointment reflects our continued commitment to raising standards and delivering even better experiences for our guests,” he said.
Also speaking, the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Wasiu Olatubosun, commended The Jagz for its commitment to excellence and its contribution to the development of tourism and hospitality in Oyo State.
He described Odia’s appointment as a positive development that would further enhance the hotel’s reputation and competitiveness within the industry.
In his response, Odia expressed gratitude to the management for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to build on the hotel’s achievements through improved service delivery, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
“I am committed to ensuring that The Jagz continues to set standards in the hospitality industry. We will focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening customer relationships, and positioning the brand for greater heights,” he said.
Prior to his appointment, Odia served as Assistant General Manager at Marriott Hotels, where he played key roles in improving operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
His appointment is expected to further strengthen The Jagz’s position as one of Nigeria’s emerging hospitality brands as it pursues its vision of becoming a globally recognised hospitality destination.
