The hospitality industry in Northern Nigeria is growing, but it faces a unique set of challenges compared to the southern region. Cities like Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, Jos, Bauchi, and Sokoto have seen increasing demand for quality hotels due to business travel, government functions, and tourism. However, the market is still developing in terms of infrastructure, modern facilities, and luxury-standard services.
Many hotels in the North are operated by dedicated entrepreneurs who have invested heavily to bring international-standard accommodation and amenities to the region.
While there are standout properties offering five-star comfort, conference facilities, and recreational options, some areas still lack the variety and consistency seen in Lagos or Abuja’s southern hotels.
Despite these challenges, the sector shows promise. Investors are improving facilities, expanding brands, and tapping into the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) market.
Northern hospitality often emphasizes local culture, cuisine, and community engagement, giving it a distinct identity compared to other parts of the country.
Owner: Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Ida
State: Kano
Ibrahim Mohammed Ida is a Nigerian banker, lawyer, politician, and hospitality investor with a career spanning public finance, academia, and private enterprise. Ida served as Senator for Katsina Central from 2007, representing the All Progressives Congress. During his tenure, he sat on key committees including Finance, Defence & Army, Rules & Business, and the electoral oversight panel.
In the private sector, Ida is the Executive Chairman and owner of Bristol Palace Hotel in Kano, a luxury property positioned as one of northern Nigeria’s flagship hospitality investments. Located at 54 Guda Abdullahi Street, the hotel features modern accommodations with rates ranging from about N125,000 to N900,000. His investments in the sector have earned national recognition, including an award for Best Nigerian Tourism Investment. Ida also holds the traditional title of Sardaunan Katsina.
Ida’s professional foundation is rooted in finance and public administration. He holds an AIB from London (1977), an MSc in Banking & Finance from the University of Ibadan (1983), and an LLB/BL from the University of Abuja (2003). Prior to his Senate career, he was Commissioner of Finance in Katsina State and a Permanent Secretary in the Federal Civil Service. He later served as Vice Chancellor of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina.
