When The Wheatbaker Lagos first opened its doors fifteen years ago in the upscale enclave of Ikoyi, it was nothing short of a revelation. At a time when Nigeria’s hospitality scene was still finding its feet, this boutique hotel carved out a niche that was daring, elegant, and unapologetically different. With a distinct blend of luxury, culture, and artistry, The Wheatbaker didn’t just offer rooms; it offered an experience, a celebration of Nigerian creativity and African excellence.

Today, the hotel continues to set benchmarks, maintaining its exclusivity and high standards through continuous renovations, staff development, and an unwavering commitment to the arts and community. In an in-depth conversation, Salome Danjuma, The Wheatbaker’s Food, Beverage, and Spa Manager, shared the philosophy behind the brand, the rationale for ongoing renovations, and what guests can expect from the refreshed property.

“We are fifteen years old this year,” Danjuma begins, reflecting on the hotel’s journey. “When The Wheatbaker started, there weren’t many hotels like us. We were very unique and energetic. While others followed the trends, we chose a different path, one that celebrated the arts, indigenous culture, and African identity. My slogan is ‘Vehicles of African Pride.’”

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She emphasizes that the hotel’s mission is more than luxury; it is about showing that excellence and Nigerian identity can coexist. “Being Nigerian is an advantage. We understand our market, our people, and we can deliver high quality. We are also passionate about youth development, supporting talent, and nurturing the next generation.”

Despite being a small boutique hotel, The Wheatbaker is undergoing a comprehensive renovation. “Reinvention is essential; otherwise, you become stale. But we didn’t want to close the hotel because our team’s livelihood matters,” Danjuma explains. Renovations are being executed in phases, allowing the hotel to remain operational and staff employed while offering them opportunities to learn, adapt, and think proactively about the future.

“The project isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about building a foundation for the next 30, 50, or even 100 years. Our owners are taking the steps to refresh both the property and the brand while ensuring that the experience for guests remains seamless.”

Already, guests can indulge in a fully refreshed spa experience, boasting luxurious treatment rooms, steam and sauna facilities, and products sourced from indigenous, female-led businesses such as Mint, Bajanada, Arami, House of Uzozi, Centrofina, and Modara. “We are deliberate about wellness,” Danjuma says. “Every ingredient is healing, intentionally sourced, and chemical-free. Our goal is to rejuvenate both body and spirit.”

Art remains central to The Wheatbaker’s identity. Curated by Bloom Arts founder Ugoma Ebila, the hotel’s collection continues to expand, blending contemporary Nigerian creativity with timeless African narratives. Even the spa now features original works, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to celebrating and supporting the arts.

Nestled in one of Lagos’s most refined neighborhoods, The Wheatbaker offers guests a balance between tranquility and access to the city’s vibrant pulse. Quiet solitude is steps away from Victoria Island’s nightlife, paddle courts, golf clubs, and emerging gastronomic destinations. Visitors also have access to curated excursions and cultural events, from intimate trips to Badagry to music, food, and fashion festivals that showcase the city’s ever-expanding cultural landscape.

For beach lovers, partnerships with local destinations like Jara Beach enhance the experience. “Collaboration makes us stronger,” Danjuma notes.

A key pillar of The Wheatbaker’s success lies in its investment in people. Regular training ensures the team remains adaptive, skilled, and motivated. Danjuma’s own journey exemplifies this philosophy: with a background in Business Information Systems and a master’s in Hotel Management from Switzerland, she began her career in hospitality and quickly found her calling.

“I love the dynamism of this industry,” she says. “Every day is different. You engage with engineering, cooking, science, service. You have to be adaptable, think on your feet, and love people.”

As a self-proclaimed feminist, Danjuma is committed to mentoring women in hospitality. From her female head chef to the team she nurtures daily, she emphasizes competence, training, and confidence as keys to success. “We should celebrate our achievements and keep raising the bar,” she insists.

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Despite the logistical hurdles of power supply, taxation, and a competitive market, The Wheatbaker continues to thrive. “It’s about taking it one day at a time, evolving, and delivering quality consistently,” Danjuma explains. Even amid renovation, business remains strong, with both returning and new guests contributing to the hotel’s enduring reputation.

“The past fifteen years have taught us resilience, creativity, and the importance of community,” she concludes. “We remain committed to being a Wheatbaker in Lagos for now, but who knows? In the next fifteen years, we may branch out. For today, we focus on excellence, African pride, and giving our guests an experience they will never forget.”

The Wheatbaker at fifteen is more than a hotel; it is a testament to vision, culture, and the transformative power of hospitality. Amid Lagos’s evolving skyline, it remains a sanctuary of luxury, creativity, and unapologetic African pride.