Enugu, Nigeria – NACO Logistics, a trusted brand in hospitality and logistics services for Nigerian lawyers, has responded to a publication by Ms Barbara Tosan Onwubiko, which was widely circulated on social media, raising concerns over accommodation challenges at the just-concluded 65th Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Enugu.
For years, NACO has played a crucial role in supporting lawyers nationwide through seamless hotel and hall reservations, flight bookings, jet charters, airport pickups, car hire, real estate consultancy, and delivery services.
The company has built a strong reputation, reflected in numerous positive reviews from clients who commend its professionalism, reliability, and affordability. Many lawyers who booked through NACO for past NBA conferences have attested to smooth experiences, timely service, and excellent value.
However, in her piece titled “NACO: The Urgency of Due Diligence,” Ms Onwubiko narrated a different experience.
Barbara Onwubiko’s Allegations
In her account, she explained that after the NBA AGC venue was moved to Enugu, she secured accommodation through NACO at Aristar Suites and Residence, Sebastian Road, New Haven.
According to her, upon arrival on Sunday, August 24, 2025, she and several other lawyers faced delays at the reception, were informed that no rooms were available, and were told their names were missing from the hotel’s list.
She noted that the situation was eventually resolved after several calls, but not without consequence—she missed the opening ceremony and cocktail party. She also described subsequent challenges at the hotel, including water shortages, malfunctioning heaters, poor room service, and an inactive kitchen.
Ms Onwubiko further claimed that cab drivers in the area remarked that the hotel had been mismanaged and hastily reopened for the conference. Expressing her disappointment, she questioned whether NACO conducts proper due diligence before endorsing hotels for lawyers and accused the company of failing to ensure value for money.
Her words: “My experience at the hotel I booked fell well short of the promised services. In the end, I felt cheated and let down. My experience was a ‘due disaster’.”
NACO’s Response
In a statement issued in response to the publication, NACO Logistics strongly refuted the allegations, describing them as “malicious and damaging to the company’s corporate image”.
The company clarified the following:
- Due Diligence on Hotels
Contrary to Ms. Onwubiko’s claims, NACO affirmed that it inspects all partner hotels before listing them for clients, not only checking features but also verifying ownership for security reasons. The hotel in question, Aristar Suites, was listed as part of NACO’s budget hotel category, which is the lowest tier in its catalogue.“She booked a budget hotel instead of semi-premium or premium options. It is therefore unfair to blame NACO for the level of service at a budget facility she personally selected,” the company stated. - Amenities and Complaints
NACO stressed that it is not responsible for providing hotel amenities but ensures that client complaints are promptly addressed. The only complaint Mrs. Onwubiko formally raised, according to the company, was the hotel’s claim of incomplete payment by NACO — which was immediately resolved and never disturbed her again during her stay. - Refunds and Hotel Swaps
To ensure satisfaction, NACO explained that clients are always given the option to swap hotels or request a full refund without deductions. Indeed, several lawyers who rejected Aristar Suites were either refunded or reassigned to better accommodations. “Barbara never requested a change of hotel or refund, hence it is misleading to suggest that NACO abandoned her,” the company clarified. - Value for Money
NACO revealed that the room Barbara booked through its platform at ₦25,000 per night was being sold directly at the hotel for ₦35,000 per night, underscoring that she actually paid less under the company’s negotiated rate.
NACO’s Position
While firmly defending its reputation, NACO expressed empathy for Mrs. Onwubiko’s unpleasant experience, noting that it does not downplay the discomfort any client may feel in the course of travel or accommodation.
“We empathise with Barbara and any other client(s) who may have felt dissatisfied during the just-concluded NBA conference. While NACO fulfilled its obligations in line with her booking choice, we remain committed to continuously improving our services and strengthening our processes to ensure every lawyer enjoys maximum value, comfort, and safety at all times,” the company stated.
NACO further urged clients to always take advantage of its hotel swap and refund policy, which provides flexibility in cases of dissatisfaction. The company reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the trust and confidence of Nigerian lawyers, assuring them that it will continue to uphold the highest standards in hospitality and logistics services.
For more information, lawyers are encouraged to visit nacobooking.com.
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