Onome Amuge
British Airways has breathed new life into the Murtala International Airport in Lagos, with the unveiling of its renovated luxurious lounge, following a six-month refurbishment that brings with it a new found sense of grandeur, elegance, and upscale hospitality.
The upgraded lounge invites customers to bask in the lounge’s expansive spaces, redesigned to afford greater comfort and privacy for dining, working, or simply unwinding. With a unique eye for art, British Airways showcases the captivating works of Nigeria’s Akoje Gallery, allowing patrons to not only savour the opulent offerings of the lounge but also revel in the cultural splendour that surrounds them.
Upon entering British Airways’ magnificent new lounge, customers will be transported to a modern oasis of refinement and sophistication. Spanning a 360 square metres, the space, boosted by significant investment, has been thoughtfully segmented into distinct areas, each catering to customers’ diverse preferences and needs.
British Airways’ exquisite Lagos lounge also offers customers a self-serve dining area ahead of their evening flights to London. Amidst a mouth-watering array of freshly prepared dishes, customers can partake in an exciting fusion of Nigerian classics and contemporary British inspired dishes, prepared to delight the palate and offer a savoury prelude to their journey. With a dynamic and ever-changing menu, each visit promises a unique adventure steeped in the rich culinary traditions of both cultures, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Customers can also pull up a chair at a newly built bar where a bartender will serve drinks including cocktails, wine, and soft drinks. Champagne and canapes will also be offered to customers travelling in First.
The lounge is open to customers travelling in Club World (business) and First, as well as Silver and Gold Executive Club Members. Prominent among its unique features is a quiet room with day beds, while the main area features relaxing comfy sofas and clusters of tables and chairs. In addition, customers needing to work can take advantage of new printing facilities.
The revamped British Airways Lagos lounge also displays a harmonious union between luxury travel and the creative genius of Nigeria. In collaboration with Akoje Gallery, founded by rugby star Maro Itoje and Khalil Akar, a master curator, the airline has taken a leap towards elevating the aesthetics of its lounge to new heights, as Akoje Gallery’s expertise curates an innovative new in-lounge exhibition featuring and celebrating guest artists.
The unveiling of British Airways’ Lagos lounge saw a celebration of creativity, as three captivating Nigerian artists graced the space with a showcase of works inspired by the theme “New Beginnings”. The selected artists include: Olawunmi Banjo, with two paintings titled The Wait I and II; Qozeem Abdul Rahman, with a large painting titled The Guardian; and Steve Ekpenisi, with a large metal sculpture titled Ulaga.
Speaking at the grand opening of the lounge, Calum Laming, British Airways’ chief customer officer, said the airline is focused on investing in the entire customer journey, not just on board.
Laming noted further, “For many of our customers, lounges are an important part of their experience, and the re-design of our Lagos lounge is a key part of our transformation strategy across our lounges around the world.
“We’re delighted to open our doors to this stunning lounge in Lagos and we’re confident customers will enjoy spending time in this cleverly created space.”
Khalil Akar of the Akoje Gallery, remarked that it is an honour partnering with British Airways to create an opportunity for local Nigerian artists to showcase their talents in the brand-new Lagos Lounge.
“We hope British Airways passengers enjoy the immersion in Nigerian culture and the artists’ contribution to their local art community,” he added.
