The Service Arts and Hospitality Academy (SAHA) has pioneered initiative poised to transform hospitality education in Nigeria by providing world-class training at a significantly reduced cost compared to international options.
Historically, Nigerian hospitality aspirants have had to travel abroad, spending between $3,000 and $5,000 for quality education. SAHA is now making similar top-tier training accessible locally, with course fees ranging from ₦250,000 to ₦350,000—an affordable investment for those aiming to advance their careers.
The academy announced the inauguration of its first training cohort, starting from March 24th to April 17th, 2025.
SAHA’s curriculum emphasizes practical learning and mentorship, meticulously crafted to develop hospitality professionals who surpass global service standards.
In a statement by the organisation, it stated that participants will receive comprehensive onsite training in four specialized areas: Leadership Foundation Certification, Food & Beverage Service, Housekeeping Operations, and Front Office Operations.
“The program offers a distinctive combination of 4 weeks of classroom instruction, 2 weeks of an immersive field trip, and 1 month of engaging internships, ensuring participants receive a hands-on experience benchmarked to international standards while celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
“Internship placements enable students to transition smoothly from training to practical applications, gaining invaluable experience in high-performance hospitality settings—preparing them to deliver extraordinary guest experiences on par with global hospitality leaders,” the academy stated.
Leading SAHA is Benedicta Genevieve Ogar, an industry professional with over a decade of international experience from esteemed institutions like Sequoia Lodge (Disneyland Paris), Mandalay Bay, and The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. Her vision for SAHA merges international excellence with a uniquely Nigerian approach, forging professionals equipped to meet both local and global market demands.
“This program is more than just skill development; it aims to kindle a passion for service excellence that will reshape Nigeria’s hospitality landscape,” stated Benedicta Ogar, Founder and CEO of SAHA. “We’re here to prove that top-quality training can be accessible and affordable.”
As Nigeria continues to draw international tourists and tap into its expansive tourism potential, SAHA stands at the forefront to ensure the hospitality industry is staffed with skilled professionals ready to provide unforgettable experiences. The strong interest in SAHA’s inaugural cohort highlights the increasing demand for innovative and quality-oriented training solutions in the country. Register now and take the first step towards becoming a world-class hospitality professional.
