explain tourism in nigeria

17 Top Tourist Attractions In Nigeria To Visit: Tourism At Its Best

Tourist attractions have the ability to attract worldwide attention which transcends from not only setting up a physical edifice but also embodies structures or places of natural and physical value. They depict historical significance and outstanding beauty capable of awing and amusing the public; The physical evidence of genius architectural designs and brain work, coupled with the mysterious dynamism of natural ingenuity make them the go-to place for memorable tourism experience. We took some time to compile a list of tourist attractions in Nigeria. Enjoy!

1. Olumo Rock

      ogun state.

Any visit to the city of Abeokuta would be incomplete without stopping by at the ?fortress of Abeokuta?; Olumo Rock . No surprise that this rock is located in Abeokuta, as the name ?Abeokuta? itself means ?under the rock? as has been one of the choice tourist attractions in Nigeria. Olumo Rock has long served as a rock of offense and a fortress for the people of Egba Land, since the 19th century.  At Olumo Rock , you would be treated to attractions like natural tunnels, unusual trees, natural cantilevers, gardens on the rock, broken pathways, monuments of the belief system of the rock?s primeval settlers, e.t.c. You don?t want to miss these attractions, do you?

2. Yankari Game Reserve

       bauchi state.

All roads lead to  Yankari Game Reserve , in Bauchi State, North-Eastern Nigeria. Get ready to experience nature in the country?s biggest wildlife retreat. At the reserve, you will be captivated by the number of activities you can participate in. Marvel at the largest herd of elephants in the country, embark on a guided safari tour, and explore the tropical forests. At the Reserve,  you?ll find different varieties of animal species including the olive baboon, patas monkey, roan antelope, western hartebeest, living in their natural habitats.

After your day at the reserve, exploring the marvel of wildlife, head over to the Wikki Warm Spring.  Your visit to the Yankari Game Reserve is incomplete if you don?t experience the warmth of this spring.

3. Lekki Conservation Centre

       lagos state.

The Lekki Conservation Centre , Lagos is one of the best nature reserves in Nigeria. This conservation and relaxation center offers a breath of fresh air and an escape from the forever buzzing city of Lagos.  The 21-year-old conservation center cum nature hub, which covers an area of 78 hectares, is run and managed by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). Generally regarded as an icon of nature conservation, Lekki Conservation Centre represents the flagship project of Nigeria Conservation Foundation for the preservation of unique biodiversity, scenic, natural, scientific recreational values of the coastal environs of western Nigeria. This is definitely one to make your tourism experience complete!

4. Zuma Rock

       abuja.

The rock ranks high as one of the choice tourist attractions in the Country. Zuma Rock , the monolithic Inselberg with a human face, is located in Madalla, Niger State, to the North of Abuja. It was once described as the unquestionable watchman of the F.C.T. It is the sandy concealment that hangs like a haze over Zuba Town. The other mountains in and around it stay a considerable distance from it, which the Zuba people see as a form of respect being paid by the other mountains to Zuma Rock for its royal presence in the locality.

Visiting Zuma Rock between April and October, which marks the rainy season in central Nigeria where the rock is situated, would afford you the opportunity of seeing the much talked Zuma Rock Fire, as the apex of the Zuma Rock catches fire under heavy rainfall. Over time, this has remained one of the wonders of the Zuma Rock.

5. Agbokim Waterfall

       cross-river state.

Agbokim Waterfalls are a series of seven cascades with a total length of 6817.73m.   It is surrounded by green vegetation which is home to thousands of birds that filter the surroundings with soft chirping. Over the years, it has been regarded as the speckle of beauty in fading nature. The magnificence of the Agbokim Waterfall is more appreciated during the rainy season. It is located at Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State in south-eastern Nigeria, on the Nigeria-Cameroon border. It is the perfect location for a picnic, family vacation, tourism, and meditation.

6. Aso Rock

Aso Rock is a 400-meter rock which stands out as the most noticeable feature in the capital city of Nigeria, Abuja. The location is reputed as one of the lush tourist attractions in Nigeria, as it is a location in the Country's seat of power. Aso Rock houses the three major seats of power of the Nigerian Federal Government namely; Presidential Villa (Aso Rock Villa), National Assembly, and the Supreme Court, albeit the Aso Rock Villa building is the only structure built in the valley of the Rock. Although tourists are still allowed to visit this place, due to the rise in the menace of terrorist attacks by Boko Haram in recent times, this access has become limited.

7. Agodi Gardens

      oyo state.

Agodi Gardens is a beautiful park in the city of Ibadan which has risen to become one of the top tourist attractions in the country. Also called Agodi Botanical Gardens, Agodi Gardens , Ibadan, the site is a serene environment on 150 acres of land. It is usually patronized by families during festive periods and weekends. Its peaceful and calm environment makes it a perfect destination for you to take a break from the hassle and reevaluate life values or hang out with friends and family. From the water parks to the animal enclosure or even just walking through the garden paths, Agodi Gardens is sure to make you forget about reality!

8. Kajuru Castle

       kaduna state.

Kajuru Castle is a luxury Medieval-German style villa, built over 3 decades ago located in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The villa is designed with bedrooms modeled after dungeons and several towers with crenelated walls. The medieval theme is seen throughout the castle, it even has a  portcullis (the vertically closing gate) with a crocodile pit.

The castle includes a guest tower with  4 rooms and the main building with a knights?  hall and a master suite ( also known as the ?landlord?s residence?). There?s an outdoor swimming pool for cooling off on hot days and a barbeque spot right by the pool.  From the pool area and most of the castle windows, you will enjoy a fascinating view of the surrounding mountains and inselbergs. The Castle also has its own Sauna!

9. Nike Art Gallery

A magnificent five-story building coated in spotless white, standing high and proud in its environs, Nike Art Gallery  tells its story from the outside. The fence of the compound is adorned with rare marbles. Its walls are covered in different artistic inscriptions and drawings. You immediately feel a deep sense of awe once you walk through its colorfully tattooed black gates. This historical abode ranks high in the list of bedazzling Lagos destinations.

From the inner courtyard of the gallery where you?ll find the stone sculptures, tie-dye workshop, and hanging craftworks, to the wide variety of art displayed inside the magnificent structure, you can rest assured that your love for Nigerian art will go through the roof.

10. Tarkwa Bay Beach

          lagos state.

Tarkwa Bay Beach , a sheltered beach located near the Lagos Harbour. It?s popular with swimmers and water-sports enthusiasts, also home to a welcoming resident community. You?ll love this beautiful island that far removed from the hustle and bustle of Lagos. Tarkwa Bay Beach , unlike most public beaches in Lagos,  isn?t often noisy or overcrowded. This makes it a great place for some alone time with your significant other or perhaps a fun day out with your friends.

If you are looking for a quiet romantic time, you should visit Tarkwa Bay Beach on a weekday. Though Tarkwa Bay Beach is a small and lesser-visited beach, many fun seekers visit it during the weekends, public holidays, and festive season.

11. Obudu Mountain Resort

        cross rivers state.

Obudu Mountain Resort , formerly known as Obudu Cattle Ranch, is one of the most beautiful and pleasant tourist center destinations in Nigeria. Located on the Obudu Plateau, close to the Cameroon border, in the Northeastern part of Cross Rivers State. This resort center has grown to become a major destination choice for tourists. It has an attractive landscape and calming ambiance, with clouds smiling down on its peaks and valleys. It offers visitors a good blend of warm and cold temperatures, as it has very temperate weather.

The rooms in Obudu Mountain Resort are made up of chalets, standard rooms, executive rooms, huts to presidential suites. Although this resort is open to visitors throughout the year, the period between October and February is the best time to visit, as it is the time when the sky is very bright and the air is frosty.

12. Eleko Beach

         lagos state.

As you can expect, fun lovers enjoy a visit to the beach on the weekends. If you are looking for a quiet and reflective time at the beach, you should visit Eleko Beach on a weekday.  Even though more people troupe into Eleko Beach on weekends, it generally doesn?t get as crowded as the other popular public beaches in Lagos like Elegushi Beach ,  Bar Beach , and Alpha Beach .  Also, the huts at Eleko Beach make you people like you?re having your own private beach experience. This means, in reality, any day of a week is a good day to visit this beach.

Eleko Beach offers a peaceful retreat for privacy seekers or couples looking to enjoy a good time away from the hustle of Lagos. This public beach,  located close to La Campagne Tropicana , offers private beach features bamboo huts. It is also less rowdy than other public beaches in Lagos and considered to be cleaner. It's definitely one of the few tourist attractions to offer such services.

13. Osun Sacred Grove

         osun state.

Classified as one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. This sacred forest attracts a large number of tourists as it is definitely worth visiting and is reputed to rank high in the list of tourist attractions in Nigeria. Situated on the outskirts of Oshogbo, the capital of Osun state along the banks of the Osun river. Osun state is one of the states in the South-western part of Nigeria. Majorly populated by the Yorubas who are indigenes of the state. Yoruba people believe that the Osun Sacred Grove , which spans about 75 hectares of land, is home to Osun? the goddess of fertility. A festival that celebrates this fertility goddess takes place every year in Oshogbo. You will find scattered about the forest, shrines, and effigies of different deities. In addition to that, the forest contains about 400 different species of plants that are used for medicinal purposes.

14. New Afrika Shrine

You can't mention the names of tourist attractions in Nigeria without mentioning the New Afrika Shrine. Are you thinking of taking your nightlife escapades to the next level? Then think Fela Shrine a.k.a The New Afrika Shrine . From the genre of music to the inspirational story-telling lyrics. Not forgetting the sacrosanct palm-wine, that will revitalize the African spirit in you.

The New Afrika Shrine , an open-air entertainment center located in Ikeja, Lagos State. It serves as the host location of the annual Felabration music festival. Currently managed by Femi Kuti and Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti. Serves as a  replacement of the old Afrika Shrine created in 1970 by Fela Kuti until it was burnt down in 1977. The New Afrika Shrine showcases photo galleries of Fela and musical performances by Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti. For wholesome tourism in Nigeria, visit the Fela Shrine .

15. Kano City Walls

         kano state.

The city itself exudes tourism! Although the city has long taken a modern cosmopolitan hue, relics of the city?s past as the hub for commercial activities during the trans-Saharan trade still remain. The real identity of Kano can best be felt in the old city area. The mud houses with distinct Hausa local architectural dexterity. The narrow roads meant for only men and their domestic animals are still there. However, gradually being lost as the ancient structures go modern, relics have gradually been wiped away by both man and nature. The walls also helped in monitoring the movement of people in and out of the city.

16. Oniru Beach

This beach resort features beautiful scenery, amazing horseback rides, Squad bikes, local drummers, and African craft. The Oniru Beach Resort is one of the sites in Nigeria that is patronized by locals and foreigners. It is located at the end of Ligali Ayorinde Street, Victoria Island.

17. Dream World Africana

Established in 2018, Dream World Africana has been the perfect spot for locals and foreigners who just want to relax, play games, and enjoy the beauty of nature. You can play fun games such as Red Baron, Family Coaster, Bumper Cars, 24 Seat Pirate Ship, Bouncing Castle, Carousel, and Go Kart.  If you are looking forward to having a great time with your family or friends, Dream World Africana is a place you should consider. It is located at First Right Turn A fter The 2nd Tollgate KM 20 Lekki-Ajah Expressway, Lekki Penninsula II, Lekki .

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14 things to know before visiting Nigeria

Apr 5, 2023 • 8 min read

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After they have spent a day or two in Nigeria , most visitors are surprised to see that the country is so much more than its reputation for scam artists and kidnappings. Shake off that image, and your trip could turn out to be one of your most fulfilling travel experiences.

The moment you step out of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) – the default port of entry for most international visitors  – you’ll immediately sense that you’re entering a world of wonder and contrasts.

You’ll find some of that wonder in Nigeria’s everyday people who are hard-working and full of life, in its centuries-old festivals and vernacular architecture, not to mention the legacies of ancient empires and kingdoms. If food is the reason you travel, then prepare to be wowed by an unbeatable range of local cuisine.

Plan the perfect visit to Nigeria with these top tips and things you should know before you go.

1. Stay up to date with the latest protocols

For the second time in under a year, Nigeria has revised its COVID-19 protocols. The most recent, announced last March and effective in April, drops mandatory PCR tests for fully-vaccinated international visitors. Check the online travel portal  of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for additional guidelines.

2. If you qualify, apply in advance for a Visa on Arrival

The Nigerian government recently introduced a Visa on Arrival service for tourists, business travelers and citizens of African Union countries. Issued by the Nigeria Immigration Service, and valid for 90 days, it also covers visitors traveling from countries where Nigeria has no embassy or mission. Details for which nationalities qualify for a Visa on Arrival are available at the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) .

The key requirement here is that someone must apply online  on your behalf from Nigeria, no earlier than 14 days before your departure date. Even when they get a Visa Approval Letter, visitors are sometimes delayed by needless formalities at the airport. It helps to have your host deal with the red tape that could surface on the ground.

3. Book short-let serviced apartments online in advance

Nigeria’s healthy hospitality industry is complemented by a fast-growing real estate sector. This means that besides standard hotels, you can choose from a wide range of short-let serviced apartments, which can be booked easily online; the advantage here is that you can see everyday Nigeria play out at close quarters. Many Nigerians returning home for holidays use this option for their accommodations.

At the moment, there is no centralized service or regulation. There's been a boom post-pandemic, and most properties are in Lagos. Check Airbnb , Booking.com and other home-grown platforms, including  shortlethomes.net ,  shortletrentals.com  and  plistbooking.com

4. Pack light clothing to stay cool

Nigeria is in the tropics, so humidity and heat are constant companions. With average temperatures ranging between 30–34°C (86–93°F), you will be sweaty for most of the day. Pack light cotton fabrics, shorts and t-shirts. 

There are two broad weather seasons, rainy and dry; the southern half of the country has longer periods of rain than the northern half. Nearer to the southern coast, the vegetation is the tropical rainforest. As you head further north, it gradually gives way to savanna plains and desert landscapes. In addition to sunscreens, it’s advisable to have a bottle of water handy when outdoors.

5. There are many cultures in Nigeria

Nigeria is a country of multiple identities. For context, Nigeria – all 973,000 sq km of it – is 2.5 times the size of Germany. With a population of roughly 200 million, almost evenly divided between the Christians and Muslims, it’s splintered into more than 250 ethnic groups and at least 500 dialects. Plus, there are layers and layers of cultural and political history. 

6. Keep calm at Lagos airport  

It can be a hassle to pass through Immigration and Passport Control at the MMIA. There are many reported cases of officials soliciting tips, but this is not unique to foreigners: Nigerians returning from trips abroad face the same scenario. Arrival formalities are less stressful at the international wing of the newer and neater Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja, the country’s federal capital.

It's always good to know someone on the ground who can be reached in the case of any incident. Usually, whatever it is can be resolved with a phone call or two with a local contact.

Nigerians detest it when officials "ask for a dash" (a gratuity or bribe). They might oblige on a good day, but will flatly refuse and move on at other times. Because travelers won't have the local currency (Naira) on them on arrival, they should politely decline, with a smile.

7. Have a local meet you at the airport or help negotiate taxi rates

Lagos has a reputation for being disorderly. With about 20 million residents, it is also a very crowded and noisy city. But in those unappealing vistas lies its charm and magnetism, for both Lagosians and visitors alike. If you can cut through that jumble, it's bliss afterward. 

Be warned: driving around Lagos , as a recent visitor observed, is like racing in Formula 1. With scarce road markings and traffic signs, not to mention carefree motorists in danfos and kabu-kabus , it requires deft driving skills to move around. 

Wherever your flight lands, it’s best to arrange in advance for a resident to pick you up or help negotiate with airport taxis. In Nigeria, bargaining is a fixture of everyday living. In addition to taxis and bus shuttles, there’s a light rail shuttle at Abuja airport that goes to the city center and terminates at the Idu Station. 

8. Expect friendly greetings and small talk  

Nigerians naturally warm up to visitors of all shades and are known to lavish greetings on guests. Either in person or on the phone, the greetings are typically small talk, and will simply be questions about how your trip was, what brings you to town, and how are your family back home. They then bid you to enjoy your stay.

Your host or guide should be able to walk you through this pleasant ritual. Every day Nigerians are excited by the sight of Westerners. They’ll usually wave at you happily, saying, “ Oyinbo , how are you?” Aside from waving back, nothing much is expected of you other than “I’m fine, thank you” or a smile.

9. Attend a Nigerian celebration in an  aso ebi

Don’t let the pervasive poverty mislead you – Nigerians are happy people who have learned to make lemonade from lemons. We hustle almost every day of our lives, but we also socialize a great deal, usually at birthday and wedding celebrations. If you’re lucky to be invited to one while you’re in town, be sure to accept and get your aso ebi  – the clothing Nigerians wear at family or social functions. Families or celebrants will choose a fabric type and design and make it available to guests for a price. Guests then have them fitted in whatever style they please and wear it on the day of the celebrations.  This experience could very well be the high point of your visit.

If you can't get an aso ebi , a traditional Nigerian dress can be made within 48–72 hours. It begins with going to get the fabric at an open market, and finding a neighborhood tailor who will sew it. Alternatively, clothes can be bought ready-made at malls and boutiques, but they will cost more.

10. Learn some pidgin

English is Nigeria’s lingua franca, and the average person you meet can hold a conversation in English. But for everyday dealings, Nigerians talk among themselves in pidgin, bridging the language divide. A good number of the expatriate community, the Asians in the main, have mastered this over the years and speak it fluently. 

A few key pidgin phrases in everyday use:

How now?/How you dey? –  How are you? Abeg –  Please No wahala   –  No problems I wan go market   –  I'm going to the market Na wa ooo   –  I'm surprised/shocked I no get change –  I don't have spare money to give (a perfect phrase should airport officials ask for money).

11. Make room for worship times

Nigeria is a maze of mosques and churches, and Nigerians are passionate about their religions. On Fridays, neighborhood streets and major roads may be blocked for juma’at prayers, resulting in temporary traffic. In some areas, markets and shop fronts may be closed for the same reason. On Sundays, the Christians, elegantly dressed and sprightly, flock to church in their millions. Keep these in mind while planning your schedule.

12. Malaria is a risk

As a traveler in Nigeria, your greatest concern should be malaria, the bane of Western visitors for decades but now treatable with an injection or drugs available over the counter at standard pharmacies.

To keep the chances of mosquito bites low, carry and use insect repellents as often as medically recommended. Better still, get medical advice before traveling or check the latest recommendations by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) on prevention and treatment. Wear long-sleeve tops and pants if you’ll be walking in forests or parks.

13. Drink bottled water

There is no reliable public water supply in most parts of the country, and the population depends largely on privately-funded sources. Outside the hotels and restaurants, you’ll find bottled water on sale almost everywhere you go – on highways and in supermarkets. They’re safe to drink if you’re outdoors and feel a sudden need to rehydrate. 

14. Chances of kidnap are low

Unless you’re venturing into remote areas, the chances of being kidnapped in a Nigerian town or city are low. As a precaution, some hosts hire private security personnel for their international guests. In the event of an emergency, you may call the federal emergency lines (112 or 119), or find and report to the nearest police station.

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Places to Visit in Nigeria

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Nigeria

Here are some of the best tourist places in nigeria:.

Ibadan is the capital of the Oyo state in the southern region of Nigeria. It is the third largest city in all of the country, closely following Lagos and Kano. The inhabitants of the city are mainly the Yoruba tribe, with a few other native tribes who dwell here. One of Nigeria’s culturally richest cities, Ibadan boasts a primitive beauty that is only complemented by its modern developments. The sleek and elegant charm of its high rises are contrasted against its quaint tribal villages, its vast open spaces and luxuriant gardens. When in Ibadan, one should not miss out on the opportunity to visit the Agodi Gardens, an exquisite Botanical Garden that prides in its flourishing flora. Complementing this, another trip can also be made to the Ibadan Zoological Garden, home to a variety of native animals and birds. Apart from its various attractions, Ibadan is also well known for its nightlife. While in the city, do make it a point to explore the fantastic nightlife spots here. If you’re visiting the city in March, you could also take some time out to visit the Oke iBadan Festival, an annual cultural festival that celebrates the making of Ibadanland. The weather in Ibadan remains hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures rarely falling below 3 degree Fahrenheit. The wet season, between the months of July and September, is generally overcast, while the drier half of the year remains partly cloudy. 

Regarded as the tourism capital in Nigeria, Calabar is the capital of the Cross River State. The city was originally called Akwa Akpa in the native Efik Language, also called the Kingdom of Calabar. Sitting atop a hill by the Calabar River, the city boasts of quiet, rustic charm. The village-like beauty of Calabar is complemented by the ancient British-era monuments here, with its sleek, white marbled elegance. Nature lovers coming to Calabar will have the time of their lives here. Whether it is the majestic Kwa Waterfalls or the expansive Cross River National Park, the city abounds in its natural wealth. Calabar is also home to the Drill Rehabilitation Centre, a natural park built to conserve the endangered species of Drills. One of the best things to do while in Calabar is to go museum hopping. Whether it is the Slave Museum, detailing the brutal history of African slaves, or the National Museum of Calabar, one can never run out of things to see here. One can also head on over to the adventure park in Tinapa Resort for a fun day out with the family, or witness the famous Calabar Carnival in December.

Sprawling along the eastern banks of the Niger river, the city of Onitsha is Anambra’s primary metropolitan hub. Initially occupied by Igbo settlers, the city gradually developed into a commercial hub, and is now considered to be one of Nigeria’s most important trading ports. With a river sprawling along its side, Onitsha prides in a unique rustic charm of its own. The colorful culture of the town, with its festivals and sprawling marketplaces, adds to the beauty of the place.  While in Onitsha, do make it a point to visit the magnificent Ogbunike caves, which are a network of subterranean caves just outside Onitsha. Those interested in exploring the history and heritage of the town can also make a quick visit to the Palace of the Obi of Onitsha, an architectural marvel in its own right. Another unmissable attraction here is the Rojenny Tourist Village, which hosts a marvelous array of museums, a zoo, an amusement park and much more. One of the best ways to explore the thriving culture of Onitsha is to go shopping at the Onitsha Market. One of the largest markets in West Africa, the Onitsha markets is known for its traditional locally produced wares sold at affordable rates. Picnics at the Rojenny are also quite popular among families. Onitsha remains fairly hot and humid throughout the year. The wet season here is generally oppressive and cloudy, while the drier months are overcast and extremely hot.

Nestled just on the southern tip of the majestic Sahara, Kano is the second largest city in Nigeria after Lagos. Now a commercial capital, the town was once home to the Nok tribes in the 7th century, and the remnants of the Nok culture here  remains preserved here as proof of the city’s past. With converging rivers on one side and mesmerizing plateaus on the other, Kano is a place of charm. Rumbling old school settlements flanked by rustic markets litter the city, while the gushing Jakarta River adds to the charm of the place. Owing to its rich cultural and religious history, the cultural attractions of this city are many. The Emir’s House is Kano’s greatest height. Once belonging to the Hausa emperor, the Emir’s House is a resplendent display of the traditional Hausa architectural designs prevailing during its period. Another prominent attraction here is the Kano Central Mosque, which routinely draws thousands of devotees to itself during its Friday prayer time. One of the most interesting experiences that one can have in Kano is to witness the dyeing process at one of the many dyeing pits in Kano, where the colourful traditional Nigerian clothes are made. Those that love nature can also head on over to the Falgon Game Reserve and spend time by the various animal exhibits here. Fishing and boating in the Tiga Dam is also a fun way to spend your time while in Kano. Kano has a typically tropical savanna climate, which means that it remains quite hot throughout the year with temperatures peaking in April. The city enjoys precipitation throughout the year, with most of the rains concentrated between the months of June and September. 

The capital city of the Akwa Ibom state, Uyo lies in the south eastern region of Nigeria. Lying between Oron and Ikot Ekpene, the city acts as an important trading hub and collecting station for local products. The beauty of Uyo derives largely from its open parks and quaint little villages. With open blue skies melting into its rustic skyline, the city offers a perfect getaway for those looking for a little peace and quiet. While in Uyo, do not miss out on the opportunity to explore the humble Discovery Park here. With its natural setting and picnics spaces, the Park beckons all for its quiet charm. Another fantastic place to visit here is the Uyo Christmas village, a lovely little village known for its Museum and its eateries. One of the best things to do in Uyo is to head over to the Ibom Plaza for a fantastic shopping experience. With its street lined with stores and stalls, the Ibom Plaza is one of the biggest shopping centres in all of Nigeria. Those with a penchant for the old can also go on a tour of the National Museum of Colonial History here, which preserves the country’s colonial past through its exhibits. The weather in Uyo remains quite hot throughout the year. The wet seasons, between June to September, generally remain warm and overcast, while the drier months remain hot and cloudy. 

Sprawling along the banks of the river Warri, the city of Warri is a major oil hub in the southern part of Nigeria. The city was initially inhabited by the Urhobo and Ijaw people, before being developed as a major industrial hotspot in the country. Once regarded as the seat of the Kingdom of Warri, the Delta city still carries some of its original regal beauty. With massive cenotaphs and royal palaces, the city offers a magnificent display of the architectural designs and styles that flourished here in the earlier days. One of the best ways to discover the city’s beauty is to make a visit to the Palace of the Olu of Warri. The seat of the Wari Kingdom, the palace is known for its brilliant architecture. Another prominent royal attraction here is the Chief Nana’s Palace, a 19th century palace that has now been converted into a Museum. Those interested can also take a trip to the Warri Kingdom Royal Cemetery, home to all the erstwhile Olus of Warri, where they are honored with massive Iroko trees instead of headstones. While in Warri, do not miss out on the opportunity of enjoying a canoe ride through its mangrove swamps. The mangroves are known for their magical environment, and there are several canoe tours offered here. If you happen to visit the city between July and August, you could also witness the bombastic Kiroro festival celebrated here, where the people of Warri pay tribute to their ancestors through masquerades and performances. The climate in Warri remains hot and oppressive throughout the year. The wet season, between July and August, generally remains warm and overcast, while the drier seasons are hot and partly cloudy. 

Benin City is the largest city and capital of the Edo state in Nigeria. Now an industrial capital, the city was once home to the Kingdom of Benin which flourished between the 13th and the 19th century. One of the oldest cities in Nigeria, Benin boasts of a primitive, rural beauty that is unfound anywhere else. With its colorful festivals and world famous art, the vibrant beauty of Benin City must be witnessed firsthand. One of the best ways to explore this marvelous beauty of Benin is to visit the Royal Palace of Oba Benin Here. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this royal residence is considered an architectural wonder. Another place of cultural significance here is the Benin City National Museum, home to some of Africa’s finest bronze and terracotta artefacts. The city is also home to the fantastic Okomu National Park, with its protected animals and birds. When in Benin City, do not miss the chance to go on a shopping expedition across Igun Street, where the city’s finest metalworkers can be found at their craft. If you visit the city in December, you could also witness the traditional Igue festival, with its dances and its mock battles. The weather in Benin remains hot and oppressive throughout the year. There are alternate periods of wet and dry, with the monsoon period restricted to the mid-year months. 

Priding in its status as the largest city in all of Africa, Lagos offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Lagos sprawls inward from the Gulf and Guinea and stretches onwards across the Lagos Lagoon. The city had initially emerged as a home for the erstwhile Yoruba tribes of West Africa, and was later developed into a port city settled across multiple islands. With its youthful, cherry vibe, the city of Lagos is celebrated both for its high-end culture and fantastic coastlines. Dramatic sandstone cliffs jutting into fantastically turquoise waters borders the city on one end, while the metropolitan malls and high-rise buildings scatter the skyline on the other. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Lagos is to tour the fantastic beaches here. The city is home to two of Africa’s most beautiful beaches- the Praia do Camilo and the Meia Praia, known for their ravishing white sands and clear waters. Another prominent marine attraction here is the Ponta de Piedade, a series of limestone caves and grottos located just off Lagos Bay. While in Lagos, one must definitely make it a point to try out the various water sports offered here, kayaking being the most popular one. Those with a love for nature will also have a good time at the Lagos zoo, known for its native African exhibits. Those with an adventurous bent can also head on over to the Parque Aventura Lagos for a fun and happening day out with the family.  Lagos experiences warm weather throughout the year, with the relatively cooler months being between June to September. The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the monsoon months concentrated between May to July.

Port Harcourt

Also known as ‘Pitakwa’, Port Harcourt is the largest and capital city in the Rivers State of Nigeria. Nestled within the Niger Delta, the city sprawls along the gushing Bonny River. The city was initially made up of several fishing villages, which were later developed into a port. Balancing modern city life on one side and the coast on the other, the city offers the perfect blend of modernity and nature. The cool waters along its white sand beaches makes the city an ideal getaway for beach lovers, while its malls and shopping plazas are perfect for those desiring to escape into a busy cityscape. If you’re one for the beach, do make it a point to visit the Tourist Beach in Port Harcourt. Apart from the water here being ideal for a quick dip, the beach is also home to a number of activities such as horse riding or beachsports. For a more traditional visit, you could also take a trip to the Port Harcourt Cultural centre, which preserves and displays antiquities and artefacts of cultural value. You may also choose to extend this visit with a trip to the Rivers State Museum. For a fun day out while here, you could visit the Pleasure Park in Port Harcourt to explore all the fun activities here, tower climbing being one of the more popular ones. You could also head out to the Tourist Beach in Port Harcourt for a quick dip. Alternatively, a visit to the Port Harcourt Zoo is always a must-try for all nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Owing to its tropical climate, Port Harcourt remains extremely hot throughout the year. There are spells of wet and dry interspersed throughout the months, with maximum rainfall concentrated between the months of June and September. 

Located in the heart of Nigeria, Abuja is the capital city of the country. Serving as the country’s political and administrative council, the city of Abuja is home to all important government residencies, including the National Assembly and the Presidential Complex. The city is flanked by the enormous Aso Rock on one side, which dominates Abuja’s skyline. Full to the brim with open parks and natural outcrops, the beauty of Abuja must be witnessed to be believed. Apart from its resplendent natural splendor, the town’s skyline boasts of multiple high-rises that rise up to kiss the sky. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of nature, you can never run out of places to visit in Abuja. The Abuja National Mosque, with its spellbinding beauty, and the National Christian Centre with its architectural flair, are among the top attractions in the city. The charming Jabi Lake is another popular tourist spot here. If you find repose in nature, a visit to the Guara waterfalls should also be on your list. One of the best ways to explore Abuja is to go rock climbing at the Aso Rock, the massive monolith that flanks Abuja. The adventure sport is well-suited by beginners, and can be attempted by all. If you’re not keen on adventure, however, you could always spend your time at the several open markets here, shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts. The city is also known for its street food culture, which is an absolute- must-try here. Despite being one of the cooler regions in Nigeria, Abuja experiences hot weather throughout the year. Humidity and precipitation remains high across all months. Rainfall is concentrated between May and October, while the rest of the year remains dry. 

Set in the heart of Igboland is Owerri,  the capital city of the Imo State in Nigeria. It is the largest city in the state, and is home to the thriving Igbo tribes of Western Africa.  Flanked by two rivers, Otamiri and Nworie, on either side, the natural beauty of Owerri is quite amazing. From the massive Oguta Lake to the expansive plantations here, nature seems to have bestowed its best gifts to this city. One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Owerri is to visit the Oguta Lake. The largest lake in Nigeria apart from Chad, the clear waters of the Oguta are ideal for fishing and swimming. Another prominent attraction here is the Nekede Zoo, with its plethora of animals and birds. Those with an interest in local culture can also pay a visit to the Mbari Cultural and Art Centre. While in Owerri, do not miss out on taking a tour of the Imo Plantation complex, where you can witness the harvest of palm oil at close hand. The Freedom Square in the heart of the city is a perfect destination for all shopping enthusiasts coming here. Alternatively, you could also head ovr to the Oguta Lake to enjoy a serene boat ride here. The weather in Owerri remains hot and oppressive throughout the year. Precipitation and humidity is generally on the higher side, with excessive rainfall between the months of June and September. 

Other Attractions

Awhum waterfall & cave.

Agbokim Waterfalls

Okomu National Park

Cross River National Park

The Giant Footprint Of Ukhuse Oke

Tarkwa Bay Beach

Idanre Hill Peak

Ogbunike Cave

Sacred Osun Grove

Surname Cultural Landscape

The Ibeno Beach

Alpha Beach

The Ancient Nok Settlement

Gashaka Gumti National Park

Ngwo Pine Forest

Coconut Beach

Yankari Game Reserve

Kainji National Park

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UNWTO Connects Tourism and Culture in Nigeria

• 18 Nov 2022

UNWTO brought together leaders and some of Africa’s best creative minds around a shared vision for advancing sustainable development and opportunity across the continent.

Held in Lagos, Nigeria, the first UNWTO Global Conference on Linking Tourism, Culture and Creative Industries , celebrated the close ties between the two major sectors. Around 40% of all tourists cite culture as the main motivation for travelling, and UNWTO is leading the way in bridging the two areas, including through strategic partnerships with Affiliate Members such as Netflix.

 Opening the event, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili told delegates: “The fortunes of tourism and culture are closely linked. When one thrives, the other does too .” He urged the public and private sectors to work together to create decent jobs, grow investments and embrace innovation and digital transformation.

The fortunes of tourism and culture are closely linked. When one thrives, the other does too.

Tourism and culture ‘in the spotlight’

Representing the Government of Nigeria, Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo addressed the Conference, stating: “Our desire to diversify our economy and explore other sustainable sources of revenue has led us to rank the tourism, culture and the creative sector among the priority sectors of the economy. Specifically, tourism has been recognized for its resilience and dynamism.” The vice President also highlighted the ability of music to serve as a “global language ”, bringing people together and allowing them to learn more about the “culture and ideas” of others.

Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Lai Mohammed, added: “Today, more than ever, tourism and the creative industry, due to their economic viability, are in the global spotlight and have their place at the forefront of national and international development agenda.”

As well as meeting with the Vice President and the Minister of Tourism, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili met with the Governor of Lagos, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to explore new ways of harnessing the power of culture and tourism to create jobs and business opportunities and to drive inclusive development , both in Nigeria and across Africa. On the sidelines of the Conference, the Secretary-General also met with Aliko Dangote, a Nigerian businessman and philanthropist who has served as a UNWTO Ambassador since 2018.

Investments, youth empowerment and gastronomy

The two-day Conference focused on several of UNWTO’s key strategic objectives, most notably youth empowerment and boosting investments in tourism. On the first day, UNWTO hosted a special interactive session with youth from across Nigeria, fulfilling the commitments made in the Sorrento Call to Action to make young people active participants in decision-making in the sector. Also in Lagos, a panel discussion on Stimulating the Creative Industries for Social Entrepreneurship focused on the importance of supporting MSMEs and innovators in order to enhance competitiveness across the tourism sector.

Against the backdrop of the Global Conference on Linking Tourism, Culture and Creative Industries, UNWTO celebrated the richness of African gastronomy, a growing force within the continent’s tourism sector. A “Flavors of the World” exhibition showcased the very best culinary talent, and local gastronomy star Chef Coco Reinarhz joined a workshop and panel discussion focused on realizing the potential of gastronomy tourism to grow destinations and drive inclusive and sustainable development.

Lagos, Nigeria, 18 November 2022

Related links:.

• UNWTO Regional Department for Africa
• African Tourism United to Transform Sector for Growth and Opportunity
• UNWTO Global Conference on Linking Tourism, Culture and Creative Industries: Pathways to Recovery and Inclusive Development

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Here’s how Nigeria can develop its tourism potential

Tourism is an attractive development sector in many countries; however, despite its enormous potential in Nigeria, the industry has been neglected for many years. Part of the neglect can be attributed to Nigeria’s heavy reliance on petroleum since the oil boom of the 1970s. Regrettably, times have changed. And, despite recent efforts to diversify the country’s economy from oil, the tourism industry has received little attention.

Nigeria is a tourist haven with enormous economic potential. The country is home to over 300 ethnic groups and 500 distinct languages. From north to south, the country is endowed with a plethora of historical sites, monuments, and richly diverse cultural heritages. Some historical sites in Nigeria include the Slave Museum, the Miracle Well, and the country’s first storey building in Badagry . Other notable sites are the mystic warm spring in Ikogosi, Obudu mountain resort, Osun-Osogbo grove, Idanre hills, ancient Kano walls, Yankari games reserve in Bauchi, and many more.

Akwa Ibom and Cross-Rivers are homes to a rare species of chimpanzees and gorillas. Yet, with this wealth of resources, the country’s tourism industry remains stunted. Nigeria  received 1.2 million tourists in 2017 . ‘Africa’s Giant’ was behind South Africa and Morocco which had 9 and 10 million visitors, respectively, during the period under review.

Nigeria ranked 129th out of 136 countries in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2019 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, far behind African countries such as Mauritius, South Africa, Seychelles, and Egypt, which were ranked 54th, 61st, 62nd, and 65th, respectively. The benefits to Nigeria’s tourism sector would be enormous if it could get its tourism sector on track. Tourism is a significant source of employment as it creates jobs across several sectors and sub-sectors such as accommodation and hospitality, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment, transportation, and travel services. 

Tourism is also a potential source of foreign direct investment and a source of foreign exchange earnings. It is a catalyst for development and rapid urbanization, not to mention its impact on environmental conservation. 

The way forward

The government should play an active role in developing tourist destinations throughout the country by providing adequate facilities and cutting-edge infrastructure. The majority of Nigeria’s key tourist sites are in the country’s rural or hinterland region, which is typically characterized by a lack of infrastructures such as a poor road network, a lack of potable water supply, dilapidated healthcare centres, and irregular power supply.

Some rural communities with tourist attractions have not had power in a long while. Premium Times  recently reported  on the decrepit state of the Erin-Ijesha Waterfall in Osun, where the host community lacks a reliable electricity supply and other basic amenities.

A lacklustre maintenance culture should be abandoned. While some infrastructure exists, they are in poor condition. Beyond election seasons, when ballot boxes reach even the most remote locations, government officials should visit these locations regularly to develop new infrastructure and monitor existing ones. Its long-term significance would be double-edged, in that while these sites generate revenue, the rural area will be rapidly urbanized.

The government should make the best use of the media for public awareness and high-quality publicity campaigns. For example, the annual Calabar and Osun Osogbo festivals are frequently graced by people from all walks of life, and an effort to make it more widely known would involve the media. The government also needs to establish national tourist institutions both in Nigeria and overseas to provide interested tourists with the information they need to plan a trip.

There should also be an institutional watchdog to curb financial excesses in the tourism sector. Almost needless to say, corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of society, and taming the wild beast is the only way progress can be made. The government should prioritize data collection through this institution to provide reports in the sector. These should include ticket remittance information and basic information such as the origin of visitors and the purpose of their visit.

Finally, insecurity must be addressed. Travel and tourism are built on peace and relaxation. People go on vacation to escape their hectic lifestyles. And if a tourist destination isn’t promising, they move on to a more pleasant climate. Because of the insecurity in Nigeria, the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) advised British nationals against visiting sixteen Nigerian states. Such restrictions discourage foreign tourists from visiting and impede tourism growth.

Written by Adekunle Agbetiloye

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Tourism development in Nigeria… Beyond rhetoric, grandstanding

Nollywood stars Rita Dominic, Ramsey Noah, Pete Edochie and Florence Ita Giwa at the Calabar Carnival.

The richness and diversity of Nigeria’s culture has always been cited as strong reason why tourism should be a major foreign exchange earner for the country. From east to west, from north down to south, the country is naturally endowed with rich tourist sites.

The Osun Osogbo Groove, Sukur Cultural Landscape in Adamawa, Obudu Cattle Ranch, Ogbunike Cave, Oguta Late, Yankari Game Reserve, Olumo Rock, Idanre Hills, Ikogosi Waterfall, Mambila Plateau… the list is inexhaustible, including those that are yet to come to limelight.

When it comes to festivals, Nigeria is not lacking. From the Argungu Fishing Festival, to Osun Osogbo Festival, Abuja Carnival, Calabar Christams Carnival, Cross Rivers State Carnival, Eyo Festival, Igue Festival, Ojude Oba Festival, Badagry Festival, Durba Festival… almost every state in the country hosts one or more festivals yearly.

However, the big question is: how much of these opportunities have been fully developed to attract tourists locally and internationally as well as earn revenue? Beyond cacophony of voices especially from the state actors, how prepared really is Nigeria showing that it has so much more to offer other the dwindling number of barrels of oil?Talk of visa; Nigeria’s visa is one of the most difficult to obtain worldwide, thereby putting off potential tourists, who are eager to visit the most populous black nation in the world. In fact, the country was once rated 9th hardest visa application globally, only ahead of China, which was rated 1st, Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, India, Thailand and Chad respectively.

In addition to your hotel booking confirmation, visitors need to provide bank statements and a letter of employment. You’ll also have to make three separate payments: the first to the Nigerian government (which is done online when you fill out your application form); the second to the Nigerian High Commission (which can be done only at the post office as a postal order); and the third to the visa application centre when your application is submitted. However, you can’t do this yourself because the Embassy prefers dealing with visa companies.

On the other hand, poor state of Nigeria’s roads remains a major challenge to tourism development. But the intervention by the last administration, Nigerian airports, including Murtala Mohammed International Airport, would have been a huge mess. And perhaps, the most crucial point is insecurity. No thanks to Boko Haram insurgents and activities of Niger Delta militants, which has put the country on ‘no go area’ list for most foreign nationals, particularly the United State of America, which consistently updates its nationals with information on states to avoid in Nigeria; that’s if they visit at all.

On assumption of office in 1999, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration identified tourism, as one of the six priority areas for development, and a Tourism Master Plan was required to activate the sector. With the help of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Tourism Development International was contracted as consultants to produce a Tourism Master Plan for Nigeria.

When the master plan was eventually inaugurated in 2008 by the then Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, the aim was to launch the sector as a viable economic alternative to oil, as well as market Nigeria’s tourism assets both at the local and international levels. With an existing Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), a Federal Government agency established in 1992 under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism & National Orientation to develop the tourism sector of Nigeria, it looked like a done deal.

Unfortunately, years after, the Nigerian Tourism Master Plan, which would have set the tone for a holistic development of the sector, is still lying on the government shelf. Amid discordant tunes from stakeholders, implementing the plan suddenly became a herculean task, with scanty activities thriving in the sector. And with the oil money still flowing, the plan was almost forgotten.

If there’s any takeaway from the country’s current economic distress, it is the fact that both individuals and government are becoming creative, as they grapple with wealth and job creation. With the downturn owing to devastating fall in the price of crude oil, it has become very crucial for the country to go beyond rhetoric and grandstanding in the quest to develop the tourism sector.

In most countries of the world, travel and tourism is an important economic activity. Aside from its direct economic impact, the sector has significant indirect and induced impacts. Despite wars, political turmoil, natural disasters, medical scares, terrorist attacks, and economic and energy crises in various parts of the world, international trade in tourism services has grown spectacularly since the 1970s.

For instance, in 2012, international tourist arrivals worldwide reached 1.035 billion; slightly over half of them were on leisure trips. By comparison, there were just 166 million international tourist arrivals worldwide in 1970. Available data also shows that the 2012 visitors spent $1 trillion on travel (excluding international passenger transportation expenses valued at $213 billion). Directly and indirectly, their spending accounted for nine per cent of the world’s GDP and six percent of its exports.

For tourism-dependent countries and destinations, tourism’s share of GDP can exceed twice the world average. Today, international tourism receipts exceed $1 billion per year in some 90 nations. Worldwide, domestic tourism is typically several times larger. In deed, tourism has become a global economic and social force to the extent that in 2012, G20 heads of state recognised the sector as a driver of growth and development, as well as a sector that has the potential to spur global economic recovery.

Before now, only developing countries actively pursued tourism exports as a key development strategy. For instance, countries like Japan and the United States have historically paid little attention to luring tourists to their shores. Today, that has changed; both countries have implemented policy changes and relaxed visa regulations to promote inbound foreign travel, create jobs, and stimulate their sluggish economies.

Statistics shows that in 2013, Japan hosted 10 million foreign visitors—an all-time high, which it hopes to double by the Tokyo Summer Olympics in 2020, and reach 30 million by 2030. The United States, which is widely perceived as a nation unfriendly to foreign visitors due to its strict entry regulations, is making efforts to improve its international image. It achieved a record 67 million international visitor arrivals in 2012, and President Obama has set a goal of attracting 100 million visitors by 2021. Notwithstanding, tourist arrivals in emerging countries have grown much faster than in developed ones in recent years, with the Asia-Pacific region experiencing the fastest growth.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) prediction, international tourism arrivals will grow by 3.3 per cent per year between 2010 and 2030 and reach 1.8 billion total arrivals by 2030. On the other hand, growth in emerging countries is expected to be twice as fast as in advanced ones. Tourism’s market share in emerging countries is predicted to rise to 57 percent by 2030, compared to 47 percent in 2012.

In African countries like South Africa, tourism has been earmarked as a key sector with excellent potential for growth. And according to the country’s National Department of Tourism, the government aims to increase its contribution, both direct and indirectly, to the economy from the 2009 baseline of R189,4-billion (7.9% of GDP) to R499-billion by 2020.

South Africa’s spectacular scenery, friendly people, world-class infrastructure make it one of the most desired destinations in the world. The sector was given a massive boost by the successful hosting of the World Cup in 2010, when the country received a record-breaking 8.1-million foreign visitors. And despite tough global economic conditions, tourism grew in 2011, with 8.3-million international tourists.

Within east Africa, Kenya has one of the biggest and most diverse tourism industries, with offerings in a range of niches, including the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) segment and safari ecotourism. However, in recent years, challenges have arisen for the sector that have negatively affected the country’s economy, including two high profile terrorist attacks.

Though a raft of security advisories were issued from countries that traditionally make up a large percentage of Kenya’s target market for tourism, putting pressure on visitor numbers and hospitality revenues, the government and a number of private investors are currently taking steps to improve security and re-establish Kenya as a safe, attractive destination for visitors.

According to the Oxford Business Group, while the short-term forecast is concerning given the role tourism plays in revenues, foreign exchange and employment for Kenya’s economy, the medium-term and long-term outlook are more encouraging. The recent challenges have spurred operators to explore new revenue streams, including business and domestic tourism.

However, there seems to be a renewed effort by the current administration to get the Nigerian tourism sector up and running. Being a labour-intensive sector, with a supply chain that links across sectors, the sector seems to be a priority in the ongoing efforts to diversity the nation’s economy.

Just recently, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) rolled out a number of measures, including technical assistance, capacity building and the revision of the country’s Tourism Master Plan, as part of efforts to lift tourism in the country. The measures were announced at the end of a two-day meeting between the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and the global tourism agency in Madrid, Spain.

The session, which marked the return of Nigeria to the centre stage of the organisation it joined in 1975, was held at the instance of the UNWTO Secretary-General, who invited the Minister to the Agency’s headquarters, as a follow up to their meeting at the 58th UNWTO CAF Meeting in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, last April.

Based on the partnership, the global agency is widening access to its e-library for Nigerian tourism officials, as well as offering support for relevant tourism institutions and agencies in Nigeria. Under the UNWTO’s technical assistance programme, Nigeria will be assisted in the area of data collection for the elaboration of tourism statistics, rural tourism development, hotel classification and creation of awareness.

According to Alhaji Mohammed, who led the Nigerian delegation to the meeting, the UNWTO support will be most useful and beneficial to the country, especially with the current economic hardship.

“The Secretary General of UNWTO, Taleb Rifai was so impressed with our presentation that he said that Nigeria has shown to have political will to move tourism forward in the country. He observed that, ‘There’s the existence of political will and we can feel it from the outside. Anyone who is interested in Nigeria will know the positive development that has taken place in that country.’ At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to a two-year programme to help boost tourism development in Nigeria,” Mohammed hinted.

Aside from offering technical assistance and capacity building, UNWTO, under the new agreement, will also help in the revision of the Nigerian Tourism Master Plan, which will set the tone for a robust output.

“The global body has also indicated interest in helping us to review the tourism master plan, which has been sitting on the shelf for a number of years. They will also help in the certification of tourism courses and celebration of the UNWTO World Toursim Day 2016.

The agreement also include granting of unlimited access to designated Nigerians officials to UNWTO Library and the secondment of relevant Nigerian officials to the UNWTO Headquarters under their internship programme. “As at today, there’s no Nigerian working at the UNWTO headquarters. This was brought to their attention and they have promised to look into it,” the minister said.

However, the icing on the cake for Nigeria, according to Mohammed, is the request to host the 68 meeting of the UNWTO Commission for Africa in 2018, in order to attract global attention to tourism in Nigeria. Though there are still formalities to be taken to ensure Nigeria gets the hosting right, the hosting is Nigeria’s to reject, going by the enthusiasm with which the request was received by the Secretary General and members of his executive council.

For easy implementation, the agreed programmes between Nigeria and UNWTO were classified under five broad clusters: Policy, Activities and Events, Governance Issues, Technical Assistance and Capacity Building, Bilateral Relations.

“Every programme that will be implemented under the agreement will fall under one of these clusters,” the minister hinted.Under Technical Assistance, Nigeria will be assisted in the area of data collection for the elaboration of tourism statistics, as well as hotel classification and designing programmes to create awareness for tourism.

“The UNWTO will soon deploy a needs assessment mission to Nigeria to be followed by deployment of experts to train tourism officials, boards and agencies responsible for tourism and national agencies such as the bureau for national statistics.”

There’s also plan to organise sensitisation workshop in conjunction with the Ministry of Information and Culture in the area of capacity building. “The area of focus being on the empowerment of women in tourism through the centers being planned for the six geopolitical zones. They will also help in training tour guides, festival managers, repertoires etc,” Mohammed said.

To fast track the process, the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture has commenced the process of reactivating the Presidential Council on Tourism (PCT), with President Muhammadu Buhari as chair. Already, a Steering Committee meeting, which will draft the agenda for the inaugural session of the PCT, is slated for September 6, 2015.

Resuscitation of the PCT was one of the recommendations adopted at the National Summit on Culture and Tourism, organised by the Ministry in April, as a deliberate strategy to make tourism a viable sector of the economy.

“My predecessors found wisdom in constituting what is termed as the Presidential Council on Tourism, which is the highest advisory body on tourism in Nigeria, and the composition of that Council is such that the Ministers of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Works, Power and Housing, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Health, Environment, Aviation and Transport are members, as well as the President of FTAN,’’ Alhaji Mohammed said.

Realising that the Presidential Council might not be able to meet as regularly as would have been desirable, the UNWTO has agreed to help Nigeria in constituting a technical body, just below the PCT, to ensure a more robust approach in tourism development. And to coincide with the first meeting of the revived Presidential Council on Tourism, the UN agency is planning an international conference on the Role of Tourism As A Catalyst For Development, Peace And Reconciliation in Maiduguri, the hot bed of the ‘defeated’ Boko Haram.

“The conference is being fashioned after a similar session recently held in Sir Lanka. We are very confident that tourism will very soon become another veritable source of revenue for the government and employment for our youths, by the time we are able to provide the missing infrastructure.”

To the minister, the biggest challenge for Nigeria is how to turn our tourist sites to tourist attractions.“ We can’t do that alone in the ministry of Information and Culture. We will need the support and collaboration of not just other ministries, but also the practitioners in tourism,” he said.

Though the development of the sector is the primary assignment of the Information and Culture Ministry, the government has identified the need for cooperation, hence the reactivation of the PCT.

“Tourism is not a stand-alone ministry. Ministry of Information and Culture does not provide road, they don’t provide electricity; they don’t even provide security. They are not in charge of visas, they are not in charge of airports; they don’t control customs and immigration. These are all the various sectors that need to work together for tourism to thrive, including Ministry of Health; you all know what Ebola did to our tourism,” he noted.

On concerns from some quarters that the Nigerian Tourism Master Plan may be outdated, Mohammed explained that, “we must not only embark on the implementation of that master plan, but because we also realised that many things have changed between then and today, we may have to retouch it where necessary. That’s why the first agreement with the UNWTO is to revisit the master plan. Yes, there might be some things that are obsolete there, but I assure you that the entire master plan as a whole is still very useful,” he said.

In line with the renewed intensity, the ministry is on the verge of visiting and assessing the level of infrastructure in each of the tourist sites across the nation and ascertain potentials for development in those areas.

“We must understand that tourism is always a joint responsible between states and the federal government. The federal government is to basically provide the enabling environment, policies and laws such as security, bilateral agreement. The most important of these infrastructures, to me, is security, followed by advocacy and perception.”

Though insecurity remains a challenge, Mohammed sees potentials waiting to be harnessed.“Many of you watch CNN and you see smaller countries than Nigeria, more troubled than Nigeria, and everyday, you see the scenic beauty of these countries; that’s very important. I’ve said it before that Nigeria is more peaceful than most countries in the world today where tourism has become the main source of revenue,” he noted.

He observed that every country has its security challenges, including developed countries in the world that can no longer boast of capacity to protect their territories. “Otherwise, what happened in Paris would not happen; what happened in Nice would not happen; what happened in Brussels would not happen. In the area of providing security, Nigeria has done extremely well; I beat my chest to say so. Tune to CNN, Aljajeera and see the kinds of bombs being detonated everyday. Nigeria has one of the most thriving religious tourisms in the world, which is underreported,” he said.

While commending Lagos, Cross Rivers and Kano states for their support in providing road infrastructure to support tourism, Mohammed informed that the Federal Government is giving priority to all roads leading to tourist sites across the country.

“This year, what we did was to ask the Minister of Works, Power and Housing to ensure that access roads to all our tourist sites were given priority; we also appeal to all state governments to assist us. Once again, I thank Lagos State government for what they are doing in terms of constructing roads leading to tourist sites in the state,” he said.

Though the long-term plan is to attract inbound tourists, the immediate plan, according to the minister, is to develop local tourism in the country and make it vibrant.

“As much as we want foreigner to visit Nigeria, we want to first of all build infrastructures to grow local tourism; the same infrastructure is what you need for international tourists. Right now, the effort is to train our people on how to treat tourists, which I believe UNTWO will help us actualise,” he said.

In this article

• Obudu Cattle Ranch
• Osun Osogbo Groove
• Sukur Cultural Landscape
• United Nations World Tourism Organisation

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Paper Information

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American Journal of Tourism Management

p-ISSN: 2326-0637    e-ISSN: 2326-0645

2023;  12(1): 1-9

doi:10.5923/j.tourism.20231201.01

Received: Feb. 1, 2023; Accepted: Feb. 16, 2023; Published: Mar. 15, 2023

Unveiling the Dilemma of Sustainable Tourism Development in Nigeria: A Study of Agbowa, Ikorodu, Lagos State

Olumide Olusola Metilelu 1 , Adekanbi Oluwafemi Omodehin 2 , Olajide F. O. Salako 3 , Matthew Iwada Ekum 4

1 Department of Hospitality Management, Lagos State University of Science & Technology, Ikorodu, Lagos State

2 Department of Geography and Regional Planning, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State

3 Department of Transportation Planning and Management, The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ilaro, Ogun State

4 Department of Mathematical Sciences, Lagos State University of Science & Technology, Ikorodu, Lagos State

Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Scientific & Academic Publishing.

Tourism generally is about the movement of people from one location to another, it is essentially a movement for the purpose of recreation or socialization. Agbowa is one of the major towns in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State that is rich and endowed with a sizeable number of tourists’ destination sites, activities and programs, which therefore provide a great opportunity for tourism development which is an attempt to further complement other economic, social, environmental related available job opportunity. Thus, this article aimed at unveiling the dilemma of tourism development in Nigeria and proffer possible solutions, using Agbowa locality of Ikorodu, Lagos as special case. To unveil these dilemmas, data was collected from 120 respondents using the questionnaire method to elicit sustainable tourism development data from the perception of respondents. Accidental sampling technique was used to administer the 120 questionnaires in order to achieve the objectives of the study from respondents (visitors and residents) and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings emanating from the study identified poor funding, low publicity, poor quality of personnel, lackluster transport service, and security as constraints are the major dilemmas affecting sustainable tourism development in the host community. The study therefore recommended that there is need to encourage public private partnership (PPP); increasing publicity and awareness; improve security and safety and provision of good accommodation and transportation. The study concluded that with the public involvement and private sector participation and the provision of enabling environment, sustainable tourism development can be achieved in Agbowa township of Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Keywords: Tourism, Sustainable, Development, Agbowa, Ikorodu, Nigeria

Cite this paper: Olumide Olusola Metilelu, Adekanbi Oluwafemi Omodehin, Olajide F. O. Salako, Matthew Iwada Ekum, Unveiling the Dilemma of Sustainable Tourism Development in Nigeria: A Study of Agbowa, Ikorodu, Lagos State, American Journal of Tourism Management , Vol. 12 No. 1, 2023, pp. 1-9. doi: 10.5923/j.tourism.20231201.01.

Article Outline

1. introduction, 2. statement of problem, 3. empirical review, 4. study area and methodology, 4.1. study area, 4.2. methodology, 5. results and discussion, 5.1. analysis of socio-demographic information of respondents on tourist users, 5.2. factors affecting sustainable tourism development in agbowa, lagos state, 5.2.1. incompetency of personnel contributes to problems of development of tourism in agbowa, 5.2.2. poor publicity and awareness to the development of tourism in agbowa lagos state, 5.2.3. effect of insecurity to the development of tourism in agbowa lagos state, 5.2.4. insufficient funding as a major challenge affecting tourism development in agbowa lagos state, 5.2.5. effect of poor transport accessibility to the development of tourism in lagos state, 5.3. proffered solutions based on respondents, 5.3.1. social media advertisement in tourism development, 5.3.2. development of tourism through public-private partnership in provision of accommodation, 5.3.3. application of information technology to tourism will accelerate the development of tourism, 6. policy and planning implication of findings, 7. conclusions and recommendations.