The Federal Palace Hotel and Casino

Excellent stay at the impressive Federal Palace for 7 nights (UK traveller on business). My room had an amazing view over the huge gardens and the Lagoon. The bed was comfortable and the air conditioning unit was powerful. The Security was good - guards at the entrance perimeter, on the main lobby entry door and at the elevators. The gardens were beautiful and full of interesting wildlife. The best element though were the friendly and attentive staff. The bar and restaurant team - Kola, Ibrahim, Augustina, John, Hillary, Glory, Pascal and others - were professional, hard working and above all very kind people. They really made my trip a happy and positive one. The receptionists I interacted with were equally attentive - Kafayat, Mathew, and Michael. The porters and the cleaners were also very welcoming and efficient. Overall I am really happy that I chose this hotel over the Western-brand name alternatives (which are on much smaller grounds and look like glorified prisons here).

This hotel has made significant improvements. The staff is friendly, creating an enjoyable and welcoming experience. While there are a few minor areas that could be refined, management is actively addressing them to enhance overall quality. Every visit feels better, reflecting their dedication to continuous improvement. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the service remains top-notch. From check-in to departure, the experience is smooth and satisfying. It’s clear that the team is committed to providing excellent hospitality. Despite small areas for enhancement, the overall stay remains fantastic. Looking forward to returning for another great visit. Highly recommended!

Shocking stay, didn’t go one day without an issue. Day 1: Arrived at the hotel and they told me they couldn’t find my booking. Made me pay for a room at 2AM after two hours of screwing around trying to find it. (Keep in mind they also refused to pay the international banking fees so I’ve paid more than what I owed them). Early that day they miraculously found my booking and credited my room. Day 2: I paid for a meal and drinks. The payment went through on my side but they told me it was cancelled. It’s was a pending transaction so I thought it would reverse but never did. Sorting out in checkout now, waiting time 4 hours before sorted. Day 3: Ordered drinks at the bar. Bartender told me to sign for more than what I ordered. After telling her this is incorrect she raised her voice at us. We ended up having a back and forth and then she realised she was wrong. Also ordered a burger this day and it was so well-done and barely edible (didn’t send it back because I was too hungry and waited soo long for the burger) Day 4: Ordered a spiced halloumi wrap and it was it was disgusting. You can see the photos attached. Day 5: Finally checking out but it’s taken me 4 hours to leave with sorting out random payments that were added to our rooms and sorting out that payment that payment on day 2. My colleague also had a 267,000 Naira charged to his room. When questioned they looked at it and quickly removed it. Said they would print another. We then did this with another 2 line items. ***Please ask for the itemised list of everything if you have the unfortunate experience of staying here. Really feel like they are trying to swindle money from me. General bad: You walk into the reception and it’s beautiful. You walk to your room, the carpets are dilapidated and the room is tiny. I had broken plug points as well. Most staff I found generally rude. Food was terrible. General good: Cleaners and the lady checking me into breakfast were kind and always had a smile on their face. Guy singing at breakfast was great, hope you hear his rendition of house of the rising sun if there are no other options but staying here. In closing I cannot stress enough how I had nowhere near a “5 Star” experience. I have been treated and had a better experience at every other accommodation I’ve ever been to. I would stay as far away from this place as possible.