April 30, (THEWILL) — Organisers have unveiled the maiden edition of the Stars of the South Hospitality Conference & Awards (SSHCA) Port Harcourt 2026, a two-day summit aimed at advancing leadership, investment, and operational excellence in Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
The event is scheduled for Friday, September 25, to Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Golden Tulip Garden City Hotel. It is expected to attract over 500 participants, including hoteliers, restaurateurs, travel professionals, investors, policymakers, and academics across the South East and South South regions.
Convened under the theme, “Leadership Mastery in Hospitality: Developing Managerial Skills and Maintaining Operational Excellence – Strategies for Star Managers”, the conference is designed to address capacity gaps and strengthen leadership across the industry’s value chain.
Convener Renn Offor, a member of the Nigeria Tourism 100 Club, said the initiative responds to the urgent need for skilled managers capable of driving growth and innovation.
“SSHCA 2026 is not just another conference; it is a platform to build the next generation of hospitality leaders. Our focus is on equipping professionals with practical skills that will impact performance, sustainability, and service delivery”, Offor said.
The General Manager of Golden Tulip Garden City Hotel, Susan Okonmah, described the conference as a significant development for the region, noting that it will bring global-standard training and investment conversations closer to local operators.
The programme will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and specialised masterclasses focused on leadership, revenue management, innovation, and operational resilience. Sessions will cover team leadership, strategic pricing, crisis management, talent development, and technology-driven guest experiences.
Participants will also engage in practical training to improve decision-making, communication, and performance in real-world hospitality environments. Dedicated masterclass tracks will cater to chefs, food and beverage managers, travel professionals, and quick service restaurant operators.
Industry panels will examine emerging trends, including evolving consumer behaviour, sustainability demands, and workforce challenges expected to shape the sector between 2026 and 2030.
The conference will conclude with the Stars of the South Hospitality Awards Gala Dinner, recognising excellence across categories such as leadership, innovation, service, and sustainability.
Organisers said Port Harcourt was selected due to its growing reputation as a hub for business tourism, supported by its oil and gas economy and expanding cultural sector.
Registration is currently open, with limited slots available to ensure quality engagement. Opportunities for sponsorship, partnership, and exhibition are also available.
The conference is expected to provide a platform for collaboration among industry stakeholders, fostering investment and knowledge exchange to strengthen regional hospitality development.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
