WORLD EDITION-NIGERIA (
PDF)
ABUJA CARNIVAL
OBUDU RANCH, CALABAR
Nigeria Tour Update
Webisco Fashions and
Black History


NIGERIA
Nigeria Story
Nigeria Photo Gallery
Masterplan Photos
Nigeria Photos, Ogo Sow
About Nigeria
About Abuja
About Calabar
About Lagos
ATA Flashback 2006
ATA Flashback 2000
Cross River State
Governor Duke
Lagos Spa
Nigeria Facts
Nigeria Maps
Nigeria Slave Route
Nigerian Tourism.
Nigeria Scenes
Obodu Cattle Ranch
President's Profile
Tinapa Project
Tinapa Online
What They Say
Contact Links
Flashback:

 

A great concept for all African cities



Photos; From Launch of Nigeria Tourism Masterplan

 

AKWAABA ENDS ON A HIGH NOTE DESPITE EBOLA CRISIS

BY DENIS GATHANJU,   OCT 29, 2014 

AKWAABA 2014 was largely overshadowed by the Ebola crisis in West Africa. While there seemed to be some external and perhaps even internal pressure to have the event cancelled, the organizers led by Ikechi Uko were determined to pull through with the expo. The fact that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Nigeria as Ebola free just a few days before the scheduled start of the event seemed to be a positive indicator. However, some exhibitors, especially from Ebola affected regions around Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia failed to show up for the event.

While this was so, the event received a much needed boost from confirmations from the Kenya Tourism Board, the South Africa Tourism Board in conjunction with South African Airlines and the Rwanda Development Board in conjunction with RwandAir. There was also a strong showing of Nigerian based hotels and airlines as well as regional carrier ASKY and Ethiopian Airlines. The South African Tourism Board made known their intentions when they announced the opening of their first regional office in Africa to be based in Lagos. Speaking at the side-lines of the event Mohammed Tanko Kwajaffa the Trade Relations Manager of South African Tourism in Lagos, Nigeria noted that opening the office in Lagos would go a long way into enhancing not only tourism but also trade between Nigeria and South Africa.

He said: “Facts and numbers are stubborn. Nigeria is currently not only the biggest economy on the continent in terms of GDP, but it also has the largest middle-class and the fastest growing middle-class on the continent. Guided by these numbers we see opportunities that we are keen on tapping for the benefit of South Africa Tourism and for Nigeria as well. However, our office is not just limited to Nigeria as we also cover Ghana. This show is therefore very important for us because it gives us an avenue through which we can not only meet with the tourism stakeholders at one location, but it also affords us a great opportunity to have a one-on-one session with the Nigerian public who visit our stand and are keen on knowing what they can experience by visiting South Africa. This fact also informs the decision of South Africa Tourism to enter into a partnership with the National Travel Agents of Nigeria which is aimed at further cementing the kind of gains we have thus far made through training workshops that are meant at bringing the travel and tourism agents on the ground in Nigeria on what we have to offer in South Africa and more so how this can be packaged for the benefit of the Nigerian traveler.”

Mr. Kwajaffa noted that the event this year was overshadowed by the Ebola crisis in West Africa, but was quick to commend the organizers of the event, especially the indefatigable Mr. Ikechi Uko has was very instrumental in ensuring that the event went on as planned and was a much a success as previous events.

The event was officially opened by the Federal Minister of Housing and Lands the Honorable Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi who said that having the event in Lagos at the backdrop of the Ebola crisis and having all the exhibitors including the Kenya Tourism Board, the Rwanda Development Board and the South African Tourism Board participating was a huge statement that Africans were ready to start working and trading with each other and this would greatly enhance cooperation, tourism and investments across national borders. Hon. Eyakenyi commended the organizers for going ahead to host the tourism fair and for organizing it so well.

Most of the event participants this year had never attended the AKWAABA before with most of the stands receiving a lot of enquiries especially from retail buyers keen on getting more information on various destinations. Mr. Demola Ojo, a travel journalist with ThisDay newspaper, a leading newspaper in Lagos said that this was the first time he was attending AKWAABA which he further went on to say that was a huge eye-opener for many Nigerians.

The seminars at the trade fair were equally engaging with the entire plenary hall often full to capacity and it was quite heartening when the tourism stakeholders and retail buyers attending engaged the panelists on an engaging discussion that centered on technology in travel and tourism, standards and general travel-related information.

Mr. Ikechi Uko hailed the event a success and promised an even bigger and better event in 2015.

Nigeria, Donald Duke Named Governor of Year.
To honor and encourage governors who are oasis of integrity in a desert of corruption and who are doing something uniquely different to empower their people.  In terms of available resources, Cross River is the poor cousin among the Niger Delta States in that it receives, alongside Edo, paltry sums off money. But Governor Donald Duke, like the Biblical servant with two talents has been faithful to its management of what it has. What set Duke apart are his ideas to tap into the huge potentials in Cross River, rather than rely on statutory allocations from Abuja, to generate additional revenue for the socioeconomic transformation of his state.

That explains why, right from the beginning of his administration, he had a vision of pursuing agriculture and tourism as the centerpiece of his program of developing Cross River State and the seed seems to have germinated with the prospect of bearing good fruits. Today, there is the Tinapa project in Calabar, the Ranch Resort Project in Obudu, the Nkarassi Monoliths as well as the State National Parks. Each of these projects is expected to generate revenues that would drive the economy of the state. The agricultural project completes the picture. Duke is no doubt a man of ideas and this can easily be seen with the strides he has taken in Cross River State, which has become a tourist haven in Nigeria both for the citizens and foreigners. For these not-so-giant, (but commendable) strides, Duke is nominated from the South South region as Governor of the Year.(Thanks to Ogo Sow, Mr. Africa for sending us the above item). See Nigeria

I am Abuja, Nigeria ...
By Jerry W. Bird..

"I am Abuja, federal capital of Nigeria since 1991. I am located in the heart of Africa's most populous country, and confident about my future as a world center and magnet for cultural, adventure, educational and leisure tourism in the magical lands of Nigeria beyond my borders. My broad, well maintained paved streets, attractively landscaped boulevards and modern overpasses keep the traffic flowing at a smooth pace, morning, noon and night - and with wide cinemascopic vistas in every direction, there's no feeling of being hemmed in by gridlock. Being in the Nigerian heartland, I am adjacent to the states of Kogi, Niger, Kaduna and Nassarawa. During Carnival week festivities in late November, visitors will see the culture of all 36 states on display in rhythmic, pulsating music, durbars on horseback, camels from the far Sahara, and exotic tribal dances. It's an unending kaleidoscope of colorful regalia, fun activities, parade floats, tribal masks and costumes unique to the various states. Born in 1976, I am considered a model city for all of Africa, and one of the world's handful of totally planned cities.
I am proud of my position as a magnet for world class meetings and events. For example I just finished receiving visitors from over 60 countries, including heads of state, at the Africa- Latin America Summit. You should have seen the pomp and ceremony at the Hilton that week. Here are some current comments about my lifestyle and attractions from a variety of U.S. visitors and residents from other countries:
"Originally from France, I have lived and taught school in Abuja for five years, and appreciate the easy going lifestyle and friendliness of the people. Here, we enjoy a comfortable year round climate and really appreciate the absence of mosquitoes and similar insect pests. It's good to know that this city is virtually malaria free."
" I was very impressed by the recent renovations that were being made at Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport and was pleased to learn that the Nigerian government was really serious about improving the infrastructure of its airports for incoming tourists and business people."
" Your exciting Abuja Carnival rivals those in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Mardis Gras in New Orleans - and this was only the second year. Many say, Latin America's carnivals and music originated here in Nigeria."
"My impression of Abuja was that it is truly a 'City of the Future' set in a scenic environment which reminded me very much of Denver, Colorado."
" Located approximately one hour by air from Lagos, Abuja has excellent conference and accommodation facilities."
"Throughout Abuja there is much construction going on and the people truly exhibit an excitement about living in what is perhaps the most modern city in Africa."
"We were quite surprised at the relative ease in our processing through immigration and customs. Much to our pleasure, we were told that both the Ministry of Aviation and the Ministry of Tourism have done an excellent job in alleviating the extreme bottlenecks that travelers were accustomed to experience upon arriving in Nigeria. "
Excerpts from The Guardian (Nigeria) by Andrew Iro Okungbowa and Stella Agbala
"Here in this country where we have well over 350 ethnic and linguistic groups, diversity of culture, diversity of language, diversity of foods, and unity in diversity. We owe it a duty to ourselves, the rest of Africans and to African in Diaspora to showcase what is authentically Africa and what is authentically ours." President Obasnanjo/ Obasanjo was flanked by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Professor Joy Ogwu; Culture and Tourism, Professor Babalola Borishade; and the Chairman of the Abuja Carnival, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, among others, He said: "In the next four days, you will see the different forms of art, dances, different aspects of our way of life, boat regatta, masquerades, that would be breathtaking in one spot."
Referring to the unique nature of the carnival, Obasanjo said that it is to ensure that the amount of time and money people would have spent traveling round the country to see her beauty and people had been reduced and brought to one spot in a holistic manner. "We have come together, all as Nigerians, in one spot; we have brought together what will take anybody who has to go over Nigeria days and even months in a space of few days.''
The carnival debuted last year as part of the Federal Government's dream to promote Nigeria as a tourist destination. Also, it is to promote and expose Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to the world as a promoter of tourism as well as showcase to the world the cultural beauty and business opportunities that abound in the country. Last year's celebration was almost marred by outcries and criticisms by some Nigerians, especially religious organizations, which saw the event as fetish and profane. But the President addressed these charges when he informed the nation that among others, it was meant to promote Nigeria and her people to the global community.
With nothing short of joy and excitement, the President said the carnival is to be entrenched as a yearly celebration that would give people room to explore Nigeria. "You are all welcome to a splendid view, splendid feel, a splendid taste of what is Nigeria. It is with great pleasure and joy and satisfaction that I formally open this year's Abuja carnival to the glory of God and mankind," he declared.

Editor's note: We have interviewed many individuals and government officials during our stay in Abuja, before, during and following the Abuja Carnival. This will be part of a special edition of Africa Travel Magazine and Air Highways to Africa.

 

I AM CALIBAR ...
by Jerry W. Bird

I am Calabar, an historic seaport city and former slave trading post, strategically located on the Atlantic Coast near the Cameroon border. I am capital of Nigeria's Cross River State and considered the future superstar of West African tourism. That bright, shiny future is just around the corner according to the Governor's active timetable. In terms of economic potential, I am located near Port Harcourt, heart of Nigeria's petroleum industry, a magnet for business travelers from all corners of the world.

What about my mission for the new millenium? I was selected host city for the Africa Travel Association's 10th Cultural and Ecotourism Symposium, a prestige event that attracts tourism industry executives from North America and the world. What was the key factor for this decision?

The answer lies in the federal and state governments' new focus on tourism infrastructure , with three world class megaprojects well underway and coming into play at the very same moment, with 2007 being the pivotal year. This combination affects the fortunes of the city, state and country in a positive manner and will be a magnet for further trade, tourism and investment in the area. Members of the Africa Travel Association (ATA) contingent from the USA and Canada saw the big picture at a glance, and felt it in the unbounded optimism of their Nigerian hosts.



About Historic Calabar, Nigeria. Did you Know ....

• Calabar, capital of Cross River State, Nigeria was selected as official site for the Africa Travel Association's 10th Ecotourism Symposium, an annual international event that attracts travel agents, tour operators, tourism industry executives and government officials, including Ministers of Tourism. Calabar is a strategically located seaport on the Atlantic Coast, a short distance from the Cameroon border in the south eastern corner of Nigeria.The Calabar and Great Qua rivers plus several creeks of the Cross River serve the city, which for several centuries was an active slave trade port.Continued

Nigeria, Donald Duke Governor of Year...
To honour and encourage governors who are oasis of integrity in a desert of corruption and who are doing something uniquely different to empower their people.  In terms of available resources, Cross River is the poor cousin among the Niger Delta States in that it receives, alongside Edo, paltry sums off money. But Governor Donald Duke, like the Biblical servant with two talents has been faithful to its management of what it has. What set Duke apart are his ideas to tap into the huge potentials in Cross River, rather than rely on statutory allocations from Abuja, to generate additional revenue for the socio-economic transformation of his state.

That explains why, right from the beginning of his administration, he had a vision of pursuing agriculture and tourism as the centrepiece of his programme of developing Cross River State and the seed seems to have germinated with the prospect of bearing good fruits. Today, there is the Tinapa project in Calabar, the Ranch Resort Project in Obudu, the Nkarassi Monoliths as well as the State National Parks. Each of these projects is expected to generate revenues that would drive the economy of the state. The agricultural project completes the picture. Duke is no doubt a man of ideas and this can easily be seen with the strides he has taken in Cross River State, which has become a tourist haven in Nigeria both for the citizens and foreigners. For these not-so-giant, (but commendable) strides, Duke is nominated from the South South region as Governor of the Year.(Thanks to Ogo Sow, Mr. Africa for sending us the above item). See Nigeria

Excerpts from the book (left) by Ayo Fagbile
“Development of Ecotourism in Nigeria
Comments on the Obudu Cattle Rancnh

Welcome to Nigeria
Nigeria is famous for her huge population of about 140 million people - the largest national population on the African continent and the largest group of  people on earth. This population is made up of about 250 pure ethnic groups. Three of them the Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba are the major groups and constitute over 40 per cent of the population. In fact, about 10 ethnic/ linguistic groups constitute more than 80% of the population: the other large groups are Tiv, Ibibio, Ijaw, Kanuri, Nupe, Gwari, Igala, Jukun, Idoma, Fulani, Itsekiri, Edo , Urhobo and Ijaw. The last census in 1991 indicates a population of that is 51% male and 49% female. Continued.

Nigeria: Gold mine waiting to be tapped
Excerpt from Sun News Online "Nigeria remains a gold mine as far as the tourism potentials are concerned. One of Nigeria's greatest blessings in this regard is her ethnic multiplicity, which translates to uncommon diversity as regards cultural festivals and calendars. Outside the traditional sphere, Nigeria also gains a great deal from her geography, especially with regard to vegetation and latitude or topography, which offers both tropical and near temperate climes within the country. Continued. More->

Nigeria: A tourism destination full of challenges
by Helen C. Broadus

I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a Familiarization (FAM) Tour to Nigeria, West Africa this past October as a member of Tourism Consortium International (TCI). The overall purpose of this trip was to experience the level of readiness of Nigeria's travel and tourism infrastructure to include its hotel accommodations, air and road transportation, hospitality amenities and security services. This journey was made possible by the efforts of Chief Margaret B. Fabiyi, Nigeria's ASTA Chapter President, who was able to have KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) co-sponsor the two-week program. Click here or on above photos for more pictures and captions.

Two weeks of discovery
My colleagues and I really looked forward with wide-eyed anticipation to discovering Nigeria, 'Africa's Giant in the Sun,' because of what we had heard regarding its great natural beauty and the friendliness of its people. I was very interested in learning more about Nigeria, which has over 2,000 years of tradition and culture, with a unique combination of ancient and modern lifestyles. This very physically demanding two-week itinerary provided everyone with a fantastic opportunity to visit several historically and culturally significant tourism venues in over a dozen cities within eight states in Nigeria, West Africa to include Lagos and Badagry in
Lagos State, Abuja, the Federal Capital, Lafia in Nassarawa State, Jos in Plateau State, Yankari in Bauchi State, Umuahia and Arochukwu in Abia State, and last but most interesting, Oshogbo in Osun State.Continued.

Discover the Slave Route in Nigeria
By Dr. Beryl Dorsett

A darker historical era saw many people of West Africa leave their shores for plantations in Europe, North and South America and the Caribbean. The infamous slave trade in Nigeria is not known to many people like the slave trade in Ghana, Senegal, Togo and Benin. Nigeria and Ghana were former British colonies. Senegal, Togo and Benin were former French colonies.

In December 2000, I attended the Fourth Eco-tourism Symposium in Nigeria as a delegate of the Africa Travel Association. The Lagos State Waterfront and Tourism Development Corporation invited conference delegates to a two-day pre-symposium tour of Lagos States. On the first day, we toured the city of Lagos. On the second day, we toured the town of Badagry and learned that Badagry was an important slave route in West Africa. Badagry is one of five divisions created in Lagos State in l968

This ancient town of Badagry was founded around l425 A.D. Before its existence, people lived along the Coast of Gberefu and this area later gave birth to the town of Badagry. It is the second largest commercial town in Lagos State, located an hour from Lagos and half hour from the Republic du Benin. The Town of Badgry is bordered on the south by the Gulf of Guinea and surrounded by creeks, islands and a lake. The ancient town served mainly the Oyo Empire which was comprised of Yoruba and Ogu people. Today, the Aworis and Egun are mainly the people who reside in the town of Badagry as well as in Ogun State in Nigeria and in the neighboring Republic du Benin. Continued