The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a warning to hotel owners and managers across the country, urging them to prevent their facilities from being used for illegal activities as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify. This warning was delivered by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, at the JAGZ Hospitality Conference 2026 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Fagbemi emphasized the crucial role hotels play in maintaining security during the electoral period and called on operators in the hospitality industry to strengthen security measures, comply with relevant regulations, and cooperate with security agencies. He stressed the need for accurate records of guests and effective information management, noting that cooperation between hotel operators and relevant authorities could help address security concerns as political activities increase.
The JAGZ Hospitality Conference 2026, held under the theme “The Hotel at the Centre: Money, Elections, Security,” brought together government officials, security personnel, regulatory authorities, and hospitality professionals to discuss the responsibilities of hotel operators amid emerging security and financial challenges. The conference aimed to equip hotel operators with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the hospitality industry, especially during the election period.
The convener of the conference and Group Managing Director of Charis Ultimo Hotels Limited, Lugard Agbomoagan, highlighted the growing importance of the hospitality industry beyond providing accommodation. He noted that hotels had become a critical part of international tourism, foreign investment, cross-border transactions, and regional business activities, making it necessary for operators to understand their legal obligations and security responsibilities.
Agbomoagan explained that hotel managers needed to understand how to protect their guests and employees while meeting financial and regulatory requirements. He added that operators must also know how to respond when suspicious activities or security concerns arise within their premises. This includes being aware of the legal and operational realities that arise when guests, businesses, payments, and transactions cross borders.
The approaching electoral season is expected to bring additional responsibilities for hotels due to the anticipated presence of political figures, campaign teams, media organisations, and security personnel. Agbomoagan urged operators to assess their security arrangements before the election period begins rather than wait until problems emerge. He cited The JAGZ Hotel's dedicated Surveillance Unit, which monitors CCTV footage continuously to identify unusual activities and respond to incidents.
Fagbemi also called for professionalism, political neutrality, and closer collaboration between the hospitality sector and government institutions. His message came as hotels are expected to accommodate politicians, campaign organisations, journalists, business representatives, and other visitors during the 2027 electioneering period.
Key points
- The Nigerian government has warned hotel owners to prevent their facilities from being used for illegal activities during the 2027 general elections.
- Hotel operators are urged to strengthen security measures, comply with regulations, and cooperate with security agencies.
- The hospitality industry plays a critical role in maintaining security during the electoral period.
