Pause for a moment…! When was the last time you ventured through the beauty of Nigeria?
To begin with, the future of tourism in Nigeria presents a mixed landscape of challenges and opportunities. Despite contributing 4.8% to the GDP in 2023, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector faces hurdles like infrastructure deficiencies and security concerns.
However, with ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and security measures, Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a major tourist destination in Africa.
Investments in transportation, accommodation, and attractions are crucial to attract more visitors, while addressing security issues is paramount to build confidence among travelers.
Furthermore, leveraging digital technologies and effective marketing strategies can amplify Nigeria’s diverse tourism offerings to a global audience, fostering greater awareness and visitation.
Interestingly, collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and local communities will be pivotal for sustainable tourism development, ensuring equitable economic benefits and preservation of environmental and cultural resources. With the right strategies in place, Nigeria can harness its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to drive economic growth and position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
INSIDE SUCCESS INTERVIEW WITH BARRISTER ABIOLA OGUNBIYI, CEO OF SJ TRAVEL AND TOURS
Mrs. Abiola Kudirat Ogunbiyi, a legal practitioner and founder of SJ Tours & Allied Services/Alpha Oasis Ventures, is dedicated to using tourism as a tool for societal change. With a career spanning legal practice and leadership roles in promoting commerce between Nigeria and ASEAN nations, she focuses on addressing issues of integrity, trust, and collaboration to foster regional integration and socio-economic development.
SJ Travels & Tours Limited is a credited gateway to global adventures! With branches spanning Canada, the United Kingdom, and the USA, we’ve been orchestrating unforgettable journeys for over a decade. From local getaways to international escapades, our multidisciplinary approach ensures top-notch service every step of the way. Come explore the world with us!”
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: 70% of Nigerians believe that Nigeria is not a safe place to travel to for tourism, what is your opinion in this regard?
BARRISTER ABIOLA OGUNBIYI: I debunk that assertion and I think it’s a wrong perception. Whatever you do depends on your expectation, and at the end of the day, it is about the experience you have from it. I agree with the fact that there is security threat in Nigeria at the moment but as an experienced travel and tour specialist with over twenty years of service, we at SJ Travel and Tour, have never experienced security challenges, and our clients have never felt discouraged to travel within Nigeria.
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: With the issues of the Massacre on Christmas day at Jos and the Bomb blast at Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, how do you handle travel security and safety for both foreigners and Nigerians?
BARRISTER ABIOLA OGUNBIYI: Despite those tragic events, the travel sector prioritizes safety and security, viewing tourism as vital for development. Through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, Nigeria can leverage its cultural heritage and natural beauty to become a premier African tourist destination.
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: What influence does the travel and tourism sector have on social enterprise, CSR, and ESG?
BARRISTER ABIOLAOGUNBIYI: Speaking from the focus of SJ TRAVEL AND TOURS, we are the connectors. We work with partners and ensure that we create diverse opportunities through travel club initiatives and raise volunteers. We create holidays with a purpose, and partner with the Government to ensure we provide basic travel assistance to the less privileged.
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: What is the most challenging part of the travel agency in Nigeria?
BARRISTER ABIOLAOGUNBIYI: IIn Nigeria’s travel industry, challenges are opportunities in disguise. Navigating bureaucracy fosters resilience, embracing innovation enhances safety, and adapting to regulations opens new markets. Agencies innovating and excelling thrive in the growing demand for travel.
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: As a tourist and travel expert, what fascinating places would you advise Nigerians and Foreigners to travel within Nigeria?
BARRISTER Mrs. ABIOLA OGUNBIYI: When we explore Lagos vibrant streets to historic sites like Badagry Slave Route, sun-soaked Tarkwa Bay Beach, and the architectural marvels of Kano. Dive into wilderness at Obudu Mountain Resort, Yankari Game Reserve, or marvel at Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. Nigeria offers diverse experiences for locals and visitors alike, confronting challenges while embracing opportunities to become a top African tourist destination through strategic investments and heightened security measures.
INSIDE SUCCESS NIGERIA: How Is Nigerian Tourism A Puzzling Paradox?
BARRISTER MRS. ABIOLA OGUNBIYI:
Nigerian tourism is a paradox: rich in natural beauty and culture but hindered by infrastructure and safety challenges. Despite obstacles, Nigeria’s allure remains strong. To unlock its potential, infrastructure, security, and marketing must be improved to showcase its captivating offerings.
Conclusion:
The true essence lies in transcending mere infrastructure and security concerns. It requires a concerted effort to amplify Nigeria’s unique cultural and natural treasures through innovative marketing strategies and digital platforms.
In addition, by fostering collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and local communities, Nigeria can forge a path towards sustainable tourism development, ensuring equitable distribution of economic benefits and preserving its rich heritage for generations to come. In this journey, confronting the paradox becomes not just a challenge, but an opportunity to redefine Nigerian tourism on a global stage.
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