By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has signed an International Management Agreement (IMA) with Radisson Hospitality Belgium and Edison Hotel and Property Development Company for the management of its 204-room hotel and conference centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The agreement was executed on Monday in Durban, South Africa, by the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe; the Executive Chairman of Edison Corporation, Mr. Vivian Reedy; and Director of Radisson, Mr. Garnier Erwan.
The hotel project, located adjacent to the Nigerian Content Tower in Swali, Yenagoa, is scheduled for completion and official opening in December 2026.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the NCDMB Executive Secretary confirmed that discussions, reviews, and compliance processes for the agreement spanned over two years. He disclosed that the Board secured approvals from key stakeholders, including the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
According to him, the support of critical stakeholders ensured that the agreement meets Nigeria’s legal and regulatory standards.
He stated that the Board’s vision is to deliver a world-class hotel and fully equipped conference centre in Yenagoa to serve stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, as well as the wider Nigerian public.
Ogbe reaffirmed NCDMB’s commitment to completing the project on schedule, emphasizing the Board’s responsibility for construction quality, pre-opening readiness, funding, safety and security compliance, and maintaining Radisson’s global standards.
“We understand our responsibilities and will do our best to meet all obligations to ensure a successful opening in December 2026,” he said.
He also urged Radisson Hospitality to deploy its global expertise, systems, and brand strength to ensure exceptional service delivery and guest experience. He expressed optimism that the partnership with Edison Hotels would produce a facility that reflects international standards while reinforcing Bayelsa State’s position as a strategic oil and gas hub.
Describing the project as a strategic investment, Ogbe noted that it aligns with NCDMB’s mandate to boost productivity, attract investments, promote local content development, and expand business and tourism opportunities in Nigeria.
“When completed, the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Yenagoa will stand not only as a hospitality facility but also as a symbol of what strong partnerships can achieve,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Vivian Reedy, Executive Chairman of Edison Corporation, explained that his organisation would serve as a bridge between the owner and the operator, ensuring alignment, transparency, accountability, and performance excellence.
“A successful hotel is not just about the building; it is about disciplined management, strong oversight, brand integrity, and a shared commitment to excellence,” he said.
Reedy assured that Edison would work closely with Radisson and the NCDMB team to position the hotel as the leading hospitality and conference destination in Bayelsa State. He described the project as a catalyst for business growth, investment, and professional excellence.
Highlighting the company’s track record, he noted that Edison has recorded significant successes with Radisson in other locations, achieving occupancy rates of up to 95 percent.
“This project represents more than a hotel. It represents partnership, trust, and a long-term vision for sustainable value creation,” he said, adding that Edison is committed to safeguarding the owner’s investment while supporting Radisson in achieving operational excellence.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Wada Ahmed Wada, who represented the Attorney-General of the Federation, described the signing ceremony as historic and wished the parties a successful and enduring business relationship.
