Nigeria has a fascinating history ─ ancient monarchies, the colonial era, the return of Brazilian slaves, independence and beyond. There is a treasure trove of cities, forests, beaches, mountains and waterfalls, but tourism remains stagnant.
In Lagos, one of the largest cities in the world with over 25 million people, there are numerous things to see. Yet Lagos is just a tip of the iceberg.
Nigerian tourism is substandard compared to ‘developed countries’ but those countries were able to build Tourism and sustain it since their infrastructure was in place.
At 55, Nigeria is a young nation. Still, other ‘developing’ nations like Thailand, India, and countries in Eastern, Southern and Northern Africa have vibrant tourism.
The good news is that Nigerian Tourism may be on the rise. People are dedicated to re-discovering the country. Their efforts have put tourism in the spotlight, which may lead to significant growth.
‘Unravelling Nigeria’ is a tour consultancy that shows Nigeria’s tourism potential by exploring different places and documenting experiences. Unravelling Nigeria also organizes tours and aspires to “work with tourist attractions to help develop and push the industry forward.” It is run by a 26 year old. People are taken by surprise to learn that she operates on her own.
Challenges ─
“For the tours, logistics are a nightmare; transport, traffic, fuel crisis…I have planned 6 tours and currently planning my 7th. It’s been worth it.”
Safety in Nigeria ─
“What safety measures do you take in New York or Paris? These places are notorious for pickpockets and what not. What you do there, you do here… We have a section on the site that gives tips.”
Tourism Issues
There are security concerns over insurgency in the North, lack of maintenance or government funding, disinterest in tourism (in light of bigger economic concerns), and corruption. The main frustration lies in a culture of apathy towards maintenance. Immediate financial sustenance is valued over the big picture, and customer satisfaction is not priority.
The public and private sector need to collaborate to push tourism forward. When public museums and natural attractions are maintained, interest and revenue will be generated. Foreigners and Nigerians, especially returnees from abroad, would gladly patronize quality services.
Hotels
Lagos has no shortage of fabulous hotels as seen on TripAdvisor. Examples include, Intercontinental Lagos, The George, and The Wheatbaker Lagos. These hotels with outstanding reviews meet and surpass the international standard but are expensive (300 dollars and up per night). Maison Fahrenheit; a stunning boutique hotel with contemporary aesthetics is almost 200 dollars a night. Nigeria is a nation of billionaires, bustling cities and slums, but even those with deep pockets may do a double take. Amongst the glowing reviews for these hotels, there are few complaints, mostly about consistency and customer service.
Little Improvements
Buildings need fresh paint, public beaches should be kept clean and littering fines enforced. Many drown in public beaches; lifeguards are a necessity and an opportunity to reduce unemployment in beach villages.
Lastly, there is no denying economic hardship Nigerians face but prices could be more reasonable and all customers should be valued. A mediocre experience leaves a bad taste in one’s mouth. Patrons should do their part but also feel appreciated, not slighted. People should want to return, not run and never look back.
All things considered, the Nigerian tourism industry is looking up. Or is it?
Disclaimer – None of the photographs were taken by the author. Sources include; google images, www.connectnigeria.com , www.afrimod.com , www.unravellingnigeria.com , www.tripadvisor.com, www.hotels.com . Contact us for credit.