Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
Regus, a brand of the International Workspace Group (IWG), a global leader in flexible workspace solutions, has announced a landmark partnership with Chelsea Hotel in Abuja to introduce the city’s first hotel-based coworking and office space hub.
The initiative, according to the Country Manager, IWG, Ayo Akinmade, aims to promote work-life balance and provide cost-effective, high-quality office solutions for businesses and entrepreneurs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Akinmade, who revealed the partnership during a press briefing at the newly launched workspace facility located within Chelsea Hotel in the Central Business District of the FCT, described the collaboration as a strategic move to replicate successful models seen abroad.
He said many IWG workspaces are co-located within malls, airports and hotels to enhance accessibility and flexibility.
According to him, “We’ve been looking to expand our footprint in Abuja for a while. When the opportunity came to partner with Chelsea Hotel, it was a natural fit.
“This gives us a chance to test the work-life balance model locally — something we’ve seen thrive in international markets like Ghana, where I previously implemented a similar project at the Movenpick Hotel.”
Akinmade said the shared space model benefits both the office and hospitality businesses.
He said: “Occupants utilize hotel amenities such as restaurants, meeting rooms and leisure packages, creating multiple revenue streams and driving customer engagement.
Addressing concerns over affordability, Akinmade emphasized that 70% of IWG’s clients across Nigeria are small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He said: “Many are one-man businesses or startups looking to test an idea. Our model is designed to support these entrepreneurs with professional, scalable spaces.
“It is affordable, but not cheap. The quality and consistency we offer — reliable electricity, internet and secure facilities — come at a justifiable cost.
“Flexible leasing is also a cornerstone of IWG’s approach. Clients can book space for a day, a month, or several years. Monthly payments are accepted for longer-term contracts, making it easier for small businesses to manage cash flow.”
Despite the flexible terms, Akinmade noted that all users must undergo a ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’ process to ensure safety and accountability.
“Even for a day’s booking, we need to know who you are and what you plan to do in the space. It protects everyone, including us,” he said.
While it is difficult to quantify in exact figures, Akinmade is confident that the partnership will contribute significantly to the local economy.
“The first clients here are from China. Whether they’re into mining, construction, or trading, they’re generating income, paying VAT, hiring staff — and the economic benefits ripple outward.
“IWG plans to increase its Abuja locations from four to six by year’s end and is considering more hotel-based expansions if the Chelsea model proves successful,” he stated.
When asked about the current state of doing business in Nigeria, Akinmade acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, saying: “Yes, it’s tough — but those who will thrive will thrive.
“They’ll work hard, stay committed, and rely on faith. That’s the Nigerian spirit.”
With this new venture, IWG and Chelsea Hotel are not just providing office space — they’re pioneering a new way of working in Nigeria’s capital.
The workspace is located in the heart of Abuja, offering modern amenities, high-speed Internet, meeting rooms and flexible working environments tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and established teams alike.
The launch with Chelsea Hotel is a shared commitment to innovation and advancing business operations by providing premium and accessible workspaces across Nigeria.
The opening event was graced by the Executive Director, Chelsea Hotel, Chidinma Chidolue, other top executives of the hotel, Country Manager, IWG, Akinmade, Regus’ team and notable entrepreneurs in the nation’s capital.
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