NATOP harps on tourism’s role in diversified economy

In the year 2000, a group of tourism enthusiasts under the aegis of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) took a  “faith visit” to Calabar, the Cross River State capital. They were led by the then President of NATOP,  Mrs. Fatimah Garbati. The idea was to look at tourism prospects in Cross River State and possibly advise the government of the state, which had shown enthusiasm, to go the way of tourism, how to go about.

It was a visit that changed the fortune of tourism in Nigeria and the process midwifed what has become Nigeria’s first tourism destination. It was from the meeting of NATOP operators and the then first lady of Cross River, Mrs. Onari Duke, that the annual “Africa Biggest Street Party”, Calabar Carnival, came to fruition.  Other tourism projects equally followed.

On Thursday,  February 11, at the banquet hall of the Transcorp Hotel, Calabar, a happy Mrs. Garbati, casting her mind back to the teething stage of Destination Cross River, exclaimed: “ We never knew it was going to be as big as this.”  Calabar has become the annual holiday destination for many Nigerian and foreigners and they come to participate in the 16 km-dance train call Carnival Calabar.

The city itself has taken the hue of a tourist destination. From the Marina leisure complex, historical sites like the walls of the colonial prison, the National Museum complex, the Millennium Park, the old Calabar areas like the Duke town, the city has become the tourism capital of Nigeria. Even during the low season, the non-festival period, the streets are kept spotless. The traffic is nothing to be worried about. The food culture is alive kicking.

It was because of this that NATOP returned 16 years after to the city they helped transform. It was for the annual general meeting with the theme, “Nigerian Tourism: The missing link in the diversified economy”.

Prof. Utomi (middle) and some participants at the NATOP AGM

Speaking on the topic, renowned economist, Professor Pat Utomi, went down memory to bemoan how the country’s over reliance on oil has destroyed Nigeria’s economic growth. He insisted that it was a blessing that the global price of oil has fallen as it makes the country think of alternatives.

NATOP President Nkereuwem Onung said holding the association’s AGM in Calabar was like home coming for them.

He said: “ Nigeria is the biggest suppliers of tourists in the continent of Africa. Even though we have more of outbound tourists, that is how it is supposed to be. We have different classes of tour operators, the outbound and in-bound. Like you will agree, even though tourism has suffered a setback in the continent last year, we have a shrink of three per cent in terms of arrivals, as against a four per cent increase of the previous year.
“What we are saying is that despite the setback, NCAA still told us that Nigerians spent about 1.5 billion dollars on airline tickets last year. That makes us a veritable partner in the industry. We have always been at the forefront of tourism, no matter how you look at it. So, the AGM this year is to give our tour operators a new direction.

“That new direction is that we know most of you are marketing other destinations, but we need to also bring people to Nigeria  which is  a core mandate of the association . Beyond regulating the way tour operators behave in terms of fair practices and all of that, we also need to market Nigeria as a destination.

“We went to look at what happened in Calabar in the year 2000 when NATOP, with the Cross River State government kick-started what is today Destination Cross River. NATOP members were in the forefront of doing that. We also want to make everybody understand that if we did that with Cross River, we can do that with any other state that is willing to partner us.

“Outside partnering Cross River State to give birth to destination that is creating impact, you will agree that NATOP was part of the Seven Wonders of Nigeria. I think that what we did was that we did our best to say look, we have qualified destinations in Nigeria that is worth marketing.

“We have, as a body, participated in the World Travel Market in 2012, the first by private operators other than NTDC staff . In 2012, Otunba Segun Runsewe accorded us that privilege whereby we had tour operators in their number manning the Nigeria stand, asking questions and networking. All these, among others, were what we tried to do.”

Among those present on the occasion was the Director-General of the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mrs. Dayo Keshi. In a paper she presented, she harped on the need to sell Nigerian tourism using culture.

This, she said, informed her presence at the event since it was the tour operators that would package tourists to cultural events in the country. She used the opportunity to unfold the pet project agency.
She said: “The dwindling oil price and its attendant effect on the Nigerian economy has again brought to the fore the imperatives and urgency to revisit and commit ourselves to the diversification of the national economy.

“Today, there is a lot about government’s commitment and determination to develop the solid mineral sector, but very little is being said about the creative industry. Yet, this is an industry with enormous potential to contribute significantly to the diversification of the Nigeria’s economy by creating employment and generating wealth, especially among the rural population.

“This is why our discussion here this is very important as those of us in the industry must help create the awareness and knowledge that is required to place the creative industry on the same pedestal like oil, solid mineral and agriculture.

“This is necessary because we need to change the perception and the way culture is viewed, especially by policymakers and encourage them to see and appreciate culture of which the creative industry is part of an economic prism. Like any other economic sector, it needs support, it needs investment, it needs infrastructure and above all, it needs the conducive environment to grow and develop. That is the crux of my paper today.
“Allow me speak first, of the National Council for Arts and Culture, our mandate, what we do and our plans for the future especially as it concerns tourism. The National Council for Arts and Culture was created in 1975 as a front-line agency of the now Federal Ministry of Information and Culture.

“It has the responsibility for the overall co-ordination, development and promotion of the living arts and culture in Nigeria. As part of its core mandate, NCAC is saddled with the responsibility to foster the development, appreciation and promotion of literary, visual and performing arts and culture. It is also expected to identify, develop and promote the country’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

“Furthermore, NCAC is expected to create skills acquisition Centers, vocational centers and crafts clusters including, packaging and promotion of festivals all towards developing Nigeria’s Creative Industries.

“Over the last forty years, The National Council for Arts and Culture has continued to leverage on Nigeria’s arts and crafts to serve as veritable resource for promoting national unity and integration as well as a catalyst for job and wealth creation. This, it has achieved through its programs and activities especially with its flagship programs, the annual National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) involving all the States of the federation and the FCT.

“The African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) involves other African countries. Last year about fifteen African countries participated in the 4th edition and our aim is to scale up the expo both in participation and in content to attract increased participation from the continent. Our objective is to eventually make it a continental affair that will gain global recognition. If we succeed, l have no doubt that Nigeria will become the Mecca of arts and crafts practitioners with attendant benefit for our artists.”

Indeed l should inform this August gathering that NCAC has a very ambitious plan to introduce more specialized festivals between now and 2017.

These are:   The National Durbar Festival; the National Boat Regatta Festivals; the National Masquerade Festival; the Festival of Nigeria Contemporary Arts; the National Folk Songs Festival and traditional textiles and fashion fair.

“The rational for these are obvious or should be clear. First, it is in fulfilment of the core mandate of NCAC, which is the coordination, development and promotion of the living arts and culture of Nigeria. Secondly, festivals are today recognized as one of the fastest growing form of tourism and a number of countries continue to effectively utilize their festivals to attract tourists to their countries.

“This is so because, cultural festivals are basic ingredients that animate and promote tourism.  Culturally, festivals enrich cultural experiences and develop support and audiences for culture. They engage with many arts forms, including discovering new ones, styles and genres and help to promote the cultural and creative industries.

“Its social impact includes intangible things that cannot be quantified financially or with economic impact while preserving the heritage and strengthening local values and traditions as well as local community pride. It promotes cultural diversity and community cohesion. Besides, It has potential to create jobs, generate wealth and revenue and promote tourism. It increases knowledge of the country, state or region and possibilities for investment. It drives the construction of new facilities and improves on local infrastructure.”

The tour operators elected new executives to pilot the affairs of the body. They are: “President – Nkereuwem Onung  (Remlords Tours); Vice President -, Muyiwa Salami  ( Dvine Tour Brokers); General Secretary, Ime Udo (Leadway Tours); Treasurer ,  Bolaji Mustapha  (Get Centre). Ex- officio members are Ikechi Uko (Akwaaba/ATQ Tours); Fatima Garbati(Speed Tours),  Abiodun Sanni (Tourways International); Chinyere Umuasiegbu (Globallinks Travels) and Ladi Jemi – Alade  (Jemi Alade Tours).

Posted By: Okorie uguru

Read More

Nigeria: 'Nigerian Carnivals Need More Cultural Environments to Flourish'

Interview By Omolola Itayemi

With each passing year, more and more carnivals are appearing in Nigeria's tourism bouquet. But Yaya Ndu, a tourism advocate believes the country is presenting it in the wrong cultural environment. He speaks with Omolola Itayemi.

Quite a large number of Nigerians might not agree with you that we are presenting our carnivals in the wrong cultural environment? What really is the issue?

The problem with most of the cultural festivals of the people of Cross River, Lagos, Nigeria and Black Africans, which they organise and expect to attract cultural tourists in commercial numbers, is that they are held and organized in environments that are not cultural at all. The festivals are therefore half-cultural and turn out to be a mere mockery. They are like fishes out of the water and have robbed the thunders of their bolts.

We must begin to construct cultural environments to host our cultural festivals and it is only when we do this that they will achieve the sync necessary, even essential to attract the local and foreign tourists that we target in numbers that make economic sense.

In Enugu my home state, for instance, the masquerade festival which the state has made its primary tourist product is usually held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium, which I dare say makes it a miss-fit, and a cynical joke and ensures that the state is denied the full benefits that would have accrued to it if they were held within an African cultural environment. The same goes for the stupid nonsense that passes as Abuja carnival where we annually waste money that could help tourism.

So creativity is missing?

Most of the carnivals organised in Nigeria are blatant insults to our cultural and historical heritages. We are desperate to copy the Caribbean, forgetting that the Black Diaspora who were forced out of had to make do with what was available to them in the foreign and alien environments. It is a matter of the original copying the imitation - What a joke and what disservice to the motherland!

So how can we do it better?

The most important ingredient required for meaningful tourism development is perhaps the most neglected in Nigeria's pursuit or rather pretentions at tourism development. That ingredient is imagination and creativity. Imagination/creativity is essential not only for tourism development but indeed in all aspects of human endeavor. In absolutely every field of human undertaking, creativity imagination is not only useful but necessary, be it in agriculture, in music, games, war, diplomacy, science, you name it. In fact, one can argue that without imagination/creativity, we cannot be truly human.

When we talk about tourism potentials and endowments in Nigeria, we only think of natural endowments. Even the culture we refer to, we fail to realise that they are products of the creativity and imagination of our ancestors. Without imagination and creativity, we cannot harness any tourism potentials. We fail to realize that many of the nations that are making waves in tourism in the modern world are relying mostly on imaginationand creativity and less and less on any natural endowments. Dubai is a place that most travelling Nigerians go to all the time. Are we blind to seeing that the Dubai we know of today is a product of human imagination and creativity?

Destinations across the world are beginning to replace or supplement culture-led development strategies with creative development strategies. In fact, books have been written that critically analyze the impact and effectiveness of creative strategies in tourism development and chart the emergence of creative tourism.

Questions have been asked as to why creativity has become such an important aspect of development strategies and of tourism development in particular. Further questions have also been asked as to why this phenomenon happening now, apparently simultaneously, in so many destinations across the globe?

In a related development, questions are being asked as to the difference between cultural tourism and creative tourism? In Nigeria, we have been speaking for far too long about our tourism potentials and what these potentials could do for us if developed. I make bold to say that it is time to move beyond rhetoric to practicality. Why are we always talking about what we can and shall do in this country? When shall we begin the doing? What are we waiting for?

Can tourism contribute to Nigeria's GDP?

The World Trade Organization (WTO) estimates that tourism accounts for up to 10 per cent of global gross domestic product, making it the world's biggest industry. The potential for tourism to contribute significantly to poverty alleviation is considerable.

The WTO's report on Tourism and Poverty Alleviation published for the World Summit on sustainable development in Johannesburg in 2002 drew substantially on the work of the Pro-Poor Tourism Partnership and there are now a range of initiatives taking place on pro-poor tourism.

What is Pro-Poor Tourism?

It must be clarified however that Pro-Poor tourism is not a specific tourism product, rather, it is a humane approach to tourism development and management which ensures or at least strives to ensure, that local poor people are enabled to practically secure economic benefits from tourism in a fair, equitable and sustainable manner.

In this regard, Pro-Poor tourism may improve the livelihoods of poor people in many principal ways such as economic gain through employment generation as well as development of micro enterprises. It can also improve infrastructure which include roads, electricity, water, waste disposal and management, telecommunications, security, e.t.c. It can help facilitate democratic empowerment through engagement of the people in decision making.

The tourism industry needs to operate in environments which are attractive and friendly to tourists. It necessarily demands an educated work force, adequate and functioning health delivery system, good transport, telecommunications, potable water supply and stable power.

When one considers the financial gains that many nations and states in the world are deriving from the tourism, it is a surprise that other communities in search of alternative means of earnings and with comparative advantages in tourism such as Bayelsa State are not looking seriously enough in tourism directions. With 76.8 million visitors in 2004, Florida is the top travel destination in the world.

The tourism industry has an economic impact of $57 billion on Florida economy. Thailand recorded a 31% increase in tourism receipts in 2011 over 2010, according to Ministry of Tourism and Sports figures.

http://allafrica.com/stories/201602221472.html

Read More

Promoting Tourism as Alternative to Dependence on Oil

Pat Utomi was the keynote speaker at the recently held national conference on tourism convened by the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators in Calabar. Along with other speakers, he proffered solutions to help resuscitate Nigeria’s ailing tourism industry, reports Demola Ojo

Utomi and other participants at the event

“In the quest for diversification, everybody is talking about agriculture, about mining but nobody is talking about tourism. Diversification is not an electric light switch. You don’t just turn it on and it goes to mining, or press the switch button and it goes to agriculture. Before the mining industry can contribute anything to our economy, it will take at least 15 years. So you have to look towards the low-hanging fruits.”

These are the words of renowned economist, Prof Pat Utomi. The former presidential aspirant was the keynote speaker at a national tourism conference convened recently by the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) in Calabar on the occasion of NATOP’s AGM.

Other speakers at the event attended by major stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism industry were the DG of the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mrs Dayo Keshi and the President of NATOP, Nkewerem Onung. The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed and Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade also spoke through their respective representatives.

The timing of the conference couldn’t have been better; it was a welcome reminder that practitioners within the industry are trudging on in defiance of the ‘body language’ of the current government which points towards tourism being relegated, or ‘orphaned’ in the words of industry commentators. The hitherto stand-alone ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation created in 1999 is no more.

Calabar was also deliberately chosen as the venue for the conference. Cross River State is unarguably number one in the ranking of states promoting tourism as a means of alternative revenue and employment generation.

It was the appropriate time and place to trump up the import and relevance of the tourism industry to Nigeria’s economy. NATOP President Onung acknowledged as much.

“This conference has come at the right time when it appears that tourism is not a priority on the agenda of the present administration which is demonstrated by the scrapping of the Federal Ministry of Tourism,” Onung said in his opening remarks.

“It is also necessitated by the fact that despite the potential of Nigerian tourism, our policy makers have not seen it as an alternative to oil with an earning capacity of over $7 billion. According to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) records, $1.5 billion was spent on international ticketing in 2013 alone.”

Back to Utomi. The co-founder of the Lagos Business School was brutally blunt when he said, “The collapse of oil prices is a gift from heaven.” He has been an advocate of diversifying the base of the economy for years he asserted.

However, the convergence of two forces - the new change mantra pervasive in the polity and oil prices going south - presents another opportunity to chart the best way forward.

He went down memory lane to the fifties and sixties, describing how Nigeria’s federating units developed through a concept defined by some American scholars as competitive communalism.

All those gains came crashing down when “idealistic soldiers” took over the reins of power, just about the same time of the oil boom.

“We’ve systematically killed off what the country used to be,” he said, lamenting the death of the theatre culture in Nigeria. One of the surest ways back, he posited, is what he refers to as the commercialization of culture.

Prof Utomi has reached the top in several different endeavours, becoming one of Nigeria’s top managers in manufacturing before his 33rd birthday, reaching a presidential advisory position at 27; earning two Master Degrees and a PhD at 26, and professorship and global acknowledgement as a leading scholar in business, political economy and media studies in his forties. He has global leaders and policy makers as friends. He knows a thing or two about mining.

“Kayode Fayemi, the Minister of Solid Minerals is a friend of mine. As we speak, he’s on his way back from the mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa.  I was supposed to be at that conference. Later this month, I will be a guest of the government of Australia.” Top of the agenda is mining.

“The type of work we need to do before we even start to discuss mining; the time, the investment, the infrastructure, is such that to be obsessed with mining, thinking that we want to switch to mining is to misunderstand the concept of diversification.

“Even agriculture that we’ve lived with all our lives, will take a while. Akin Adesina who was minister of Agriculture did a lot. A couple of years ago, we had a marathon discussion of about five hours talking agriculture and the things that need to be done. He only scratched the surface of one part, the corruption in the fertilizer business. Then he began to set targets. Agriculture might move faster than mining, but there are lower hanging fruits, the area of - I like to call it—selling culture,” the scholar said.

“I’ve tried to get conversations going in that area over the years. More than twenty years ago, I propounded the idea that selling culture could earn Nigeria more money than oil. When I was talking about it, people said I was crazy,” he revealed. “But that’s not the problem. The problem is that we don’t realise how much more we can earn from this industry.”

Utomi touched on a few aspects that could help Nigeria generate revenue from tourism going forward. He zeroed in on Nigeria’s ample coastline, ‘’…stretching from Badagry all the way here (to Calabar).”

He continued, “Do you know the number of people that come from Europe to Gambia to sit on those beaches that are not half as nice as the beaches that we have here?” 

He compared Gambia’s “bungalow airport” to the “monstrosity” called Murtala Muhammed International in Lagos. However the attitude of officials at the point of entry makes all the difference. The experience of most visitors coming through MMIA is enough to dissuade a repeat visit.

“Our immigration officers need to be helped. Airports need to be places of welcome,” he said. “A service culture needs to be built.” He emphasized the need to focus on delighting people, not making money.

Utomi enjoined tourism practitioners to creatively solve tourism problems. For example, traffic to TINAPA in Calabar could be increased by linking it to the Le Meridien Ibom resort through the river that links both points. The men can play golf, while their families take a refreshing both trip to what was conceived as a shopping and entertainment destination.

Still on ideas for TINAPA and Calabar as a whole, Utomi believes tourism will only take-off in earnest if Calabar is a regional hub that links West Africa to Central and East Africa.

“There should be 40 to 50 flights coming into Calabar daily, rather than the four or five we have presently.”

Still on the subject of ways forward, NATOP President Onung said, “We believe that Nigeria can have a visa regime that encourages tourists to Nigeria.” He continued by advocating for a “National carrier that is partially privatized and fully commercialized with a mandate for national development.”

In his remarks, Lai Mohammed revealed the position of government. “A key aspect of this administration’s policy thrust is the development of the non-oil sector of the economy which was hitherto neglected. I am therefore glad that this conference has been initiated as one of the platforms that will further the discussion on this issue.”

  According to him, in other to boost tourism and give it the needed impetus to contribute to Nigeria’s GDP, government has decided to list tourism among the six priority sectors of the economy. Other initiatives include, a review of the National Tourism Policy of 1990, provision of attractive incentives for prospective investors, and launching of the Nigerian Tourism Development Plan.

“In the days ahead, we will be bringing all stakeholders together, also here in Calabar, to chart a definite path forward,” he promised. 

http://www.thisdaylive.com/articles/promoting-tourism-as-alternative-to-dependence-on-oil/232477/ 

Read More

Nigeria: Ooni to Turn Ife to Tourist Centre

By Abdullateef Salau

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi II, has pledged to turn Ife into a new tourist haven.

He said this was necessary in the face of dwindling Nigerian economy occasioned by the fall in oil price at the international market.

Oba Adeyeye said this when he paid a courtesy call on the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Carlos Trejo in Abuja.

The monarch said the visit was to discuss ways of exploring tourism potentials of Ile-Ife, to create wealth for the ancient kingdom.

He promised to facilitate collaboration between the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) and the Republic of Cuba to strengthen and develop domestic tourism to international standards.

The Cuban Ambassador, Carlos Trejo, in his remarks, said the link between the Cubans and the Yorubas should be exploited to entrench values in the area of tourism.

Also, the Director-General, NTDC, Dr. Sally Mbanefo, in an interview said tourism should be driven by the private sector.

Mbanefo urged government at all levels to create enabling environment for the industry to thrive by providing the requisite infrastructure.

http://allafrica.com/stories/201602221073.html

Read More

Nigeria: Medical Director Advocates Partnership to Discourage Medical Tourism

Dr Adebayo Adekunle, the Medical Director of General Hospital, Suleja, has solicited purposeful public-private partnerships in the health sector to check rampant medical tourism tendency among Nigerians.

He said this when he spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Saturday.

Adekunle said that Nigerians often sought medical treatment abroad because they felt there were no required medical facilities in the country for the desired specialised treatment in the health system.

Insisting that cases of medical tourism were on the increase, he pleaded with the wealthy Nigerians to assist in promoting good medical services by donating generously to hospitals across the country.

Health service is not supposed to be the sole responsibility of the government. Concerned Nigerians should contribute to the health sector by sponsoring research, donating buildings or medical equipment.

General Hospital, Suleja is a 145-bed secondary health institution but it ought to be more than that by its conception and design.

It has basic health facilities such as Surgery, Ante Natal, Out Patient Department, Emergency ward and Paediatrics, among others.

"When I came on board you can say this is not a hospital because of its dilapidated and decaying structures; the environment is not well kept, in term of beds, wards and equipment.

I ensure that the hospital environment is clean and I know that people really appreciate this gesture by being part of the sanitation team that evacuates dirt in the hospital's premises to give it a befitting look," he said.

Adekunle said this innovation notwithstanding, the hospital and other health facilities across the country needed more infrastructures to convince Nigerians seeking medical treatment abroad that they could get it cheaper in the country.

He said that his hospital was adjudged the best secondary health institution in the northern part of the country.

The medical director recalled that in recognition of this, the Nigerian Alliance for Health System Strengthening, in collaboration with University of Maryland, Baltimore County, U.S., recently invited him to speak on the role of management in clinical governance.

I received a letter to talk on the topic to tell the world how we have been managing clinical matters and achieving success.

What General Hospital, Suleja needs is just the support of the public in terms of advice, contributions and funds to render world class medical service to discourage medical tourism," he said.(NAN)

http://allafrica.com/stories/201602220077.html

Read More

Nigeria: Andorra to Host 9th World Congress On Snow and Mountain Tourism

By Laolu Adeyemi

Even as Nigeria fails to maximally explore the opportunities of the Mountain tourism that nature throws at her; other countries of the world are set to have discussions on the challenges and opportunities in snow and mountain tourism as well as evaluating new business models and the need to incorporate innovative and sustainable practices.

Salient issues and important factors on how to further develop the Mountain Tourism will be discussed by more than thirty experts from Europe, the Americans and Asia at the 9th World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism.

The event, organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Government of Andorra, will take place in Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra, on 2-4 March. Andorra, a leading mountain destination, represents an ideal setting to address these topics, particularly the possibilities to combine sport and adventure.

According to UNWTO Secretary -General, Taleb Rifai at the presentation of the Congress held at the Headquarters of the Organization, "Snow and mountain tourism constitutes an added value to destinations and an opportunity for the development of local communities; nevertheless, we should never forget the importance of promoting the sustainable management of the natural resources considering that this type of tourism takes place in direct contact with nature"

Rifai in statement says the current importance of snow and mountain tourism makes this Congress more relevant than ever. This joint initiative was launched two decades ago as a common working platform between UNWTO and the Principality of Andorra.

This 9th edition of the World Congress, on the theme "Mountainlikers, Sport and Adventure: A Promising Combination", will provide an opportunity for both the public and the private sectors to share experiences and examples of innovative tools that can drive the management and promotion of mountain destinations.

Andorra is in the European continent and the latitude and longitude for the country are 42.31° N and 01.32° E. The neighboring countries of Andorra are France and Spain. Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andora with a population of 85,458 (2014 Est.)

The irony is that while other countries of the world are already thinking of maximizing the potentials of Mountain Tourism, Nigeria, which is blessed with many natural and human resources, is yet to explore the goldmine.

http://allafrica.com/stories/201602210360.html

Read More

#ExploreBauchi: Win the Weekend of a Lifetime to the Yankari National Park

The Yankari National Park is
offering you a chance to win one
FREE weekend to explore Bauchi,
Nigeria's Pearl of Tourism, and
visit the famous Yankari national
park and other great places.

Click here To WIN

Yankari National Park is Nigeria’s biggest national park and one of the most popular destinations for tourists in West Africa. It is a wildlife park located in the south-central part of Bauchi State. It covers an area of
about 2,200 square kilometres and is home to several natural warm water
springs, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is uniquely located to afford tourists and holidaymakers’ opportunities to watch wildlife in their natural habitat.

Yankari is a beautiful, eye-opening, safe, and affordable destination for holidaymakers, tourists and anyone looking for a place to relax and experience nature. If you would like to visit, please fill the form and we will contact you soon

Read More

Vegetarian? Here’s how to survive a trip to Lagos

As a tourist destination, Lagos ticks all boxes when it comes to a great travel experience: lots of entertainment and attractions, scenic landscapes, impressive neighborhoods, and numerous transport options but one thing its is not known for is its vegan food culture.

The concept of “vegetarianism” is not very popular in Lagos, in spite of how metropolitan the city is. A majority of its people love meat and hardly acknowledge the existence of beets, radishes, lettuce and kale; except during special occassions when they include salad as a side dish. This however does not mean that all hope is lost for vegetarians who dare to visit the city. Meat may dominate menus around, but  we have basic tips on how a vegetarian can survive a trip to Lagos.

Rent an apartment

The best option for a vegetarian visiting Lagos is to rent an apartment rather than a hotel or inn. This affords you the flexibility to cook your own meals and takes away the worry of possibly consuming something that is not completely made from vegetables. It also takes away the stress of having to explain to the hotel kitchen staff the ingredients that should be included in your meal.

Be very clear about what you want

Not everyone will understand what you mean by vegetarian, so rather than simply asking if a restaurant offers a vegetarian menu, be specific about what you want to eat and what ingredients you are looking for. That way they do not just say ‘No’ to your order, when in fact they may have those options you actually are looking for. If there is nothing on the menu, make a request. Simply ask for a meal to be prepared with your favorite vegetable(s) instead of chicken or fish. This usually works with a la carte meals.

Seek out restaurants with vegetarian options

Vegetarian food is not hard to come by in Lagos; you just have to know where to look. Actually, from delis in large shopping malls like Park ‘n’ Shop and Shoprite, to proper restaurants, especially Indian and Chinese, there are plenty of places to get healthy vegetarian meals. There are also some cafés and bakeries that specialize in meatless dishes. You will find vegetarian sandwiches, quiches or other baked products that are way cheaper than whole-meat meals.

Stick to Local beverages

While visiting the city of Lagos, it would certainly be great to try local cuisines and delicacies; especially those available on the streets, however, aside from fruits and leafy vegetables, it will be safer to stick to beverages, as most times the local cuisines have meat and fish or the stock included as ingredients. With beverages however, you are safe as they are mostly made from roots and leafs.

By Jovago team

Read More

How To Deal With Strong-Armed Robbery in Lagos Traffic

Lagos, Nigeria’s most beloved city, is famous for the level of traffic commuters in the city have to endure on a daily basis. While the traffic situation can be quite frustrating and tiresome, it is not the time wasted or energy exerted that terrifies these commuters. What they find most dreadful is the possibility of strong-armed robbery in traffic.

Most areas in Lagos, especially on the Island and Peninsula, are well guarded, however, there are key traffic areas where these robberies occur not just at nights, but in broad daylight,. These areas include Marina, CMS – Costain Bridge, Maryland end of Ikorodu road, Gbagada, Mile 2 – Oshodi bridge and Idumota – Eko bridge. These armed robbers target heavy traffic routes. Although traffic robbery is something  motorists or commuters would not want to contemplate, it is equally something they can easily get caught up in.

Stay Calm

This maybe seem very hard to do, but it is the only way to survive the situation. Some robbers accost their victims by gently tapping on their side window and revealing the butt of their gun, or whatever weapon they have, while others prefer to scare their victims by smashing their side window or windscreen with a hammer. Whatever the case, do not panic, or raise alarm. The numerous witnesses will not assist or give you any protection, neither will the security men on patrol. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are still alive and will only have to lose a few possessions. Staying calm can reduce the chance of the offender becoming agitated and reduce the risk of violence.

Do not attack

Do not use your pepper spray or pocket knife. Do not attack the robber. Most of the robbers are not only armed, they operate in gangs and while you might have been initially accosted by one member of the gang, the others lurk around. Attacking the armed robber very rarely ends well.

Avoid direct eye contact 

No matter how low-class the robber may look or seem, behave deferentially. Avoid looking him directly in the eye as that might irritate him. Don’t stare either, as this would be perceived as threatening to the offender. Keep your eyes down and look at the chin of the offender and use your peripheral vision to obtain details. This is less threatening to the offender. Address him as ‘Sir’ or ‘oga’, whichever you find more comfortable. Most robbers have low self-esteem and a little bit of respect might calm them down or even deter them.

Cooperate 

Unless your car is bullet and hammer-proof, do not argue with the armed robber. Cooperate . Ensure you first inform the robber in clear terms that you are willing to cooperate, then respond quickly  to their demands to whatever instructions they give. Speak only if you need to answer the offender and always reply honestly. Do not try any form of heroics.

Speak clearly and with simple language

There is no gain in impressing an armed robber with good grammar. Do not try to confuse him with a foreign language, heavy/polished accent or big grammar. Respond in the simplest English you know. If you are fluent in pidgin or local dialect, whichever the robber starts communication with, continue with it. Trying to sound too polished might give them the notion that you have more than you are giving to them and that would aggravate them, and possibly encourage them inflict harm on you.Also, try not to add to much detail or say anything that is unnecessary as that could increase the pressure, cause a breakdown in confidence and lead to panic. Keep your answers short, precise and positive using simple words and phrases.

Take the robber seriously

While strong-armed robberies can also occur without a weapon- just the threat of physical violence or an actual beating followed by the demand for moneys, it is always important to assume the offender is armed. Whether you see the armed robber’s weapon or not,you can never be too sure. Be cautious, ensure you observe all his movements and listen to every word his utters. Do not underestimate his actions. Stay alert.

By Nkem 

Read More

5 ways to keep your travelling companion happy

Travelling is much more interesting when you have a companion. Whether it is a lover, a husband, an old friend or someone you met on the trip, everything seems much more exciting when you have company. You will find yourself doing everything together and relying on them as they rely on you.  However, how you get along will make all the difference to everyone’s enjoyment and the success of the trip or expedition. The truth is, the life of your friendship with the companion can easily be terminated if you do not know how to keep him/her/them happy.

Do not discuss contentious topics

Yes. Contentious and controversial topics are usually interesting topics to discuss as they fan the embers of our thoughts and imaginations. However, they can easily get personal and turn an exciting moment into a dreadful experience. For instance, you might be a PDP supporter, while your companion is an APC supporter. Or perhaps you are a Christian and he is Muslim. Whatever the case, try to avoid topics on which you disagree, not matter how tempting. It will only stress you both out, making future altercations more likely. Instead, stick to mutually pleasing subjects. .

Do not judge, empathize

It is very easy for us to judge people rather than try to understand and consider their own angle or plight. When you are travelling with a companion don’t be too quick to make conclusions about them, give them the benefit of doubt and remind yourself that you are not perfect as well. No matter what reason you may think is justifiable for a negative or unfriendly reactions, try and put it aside while on the journey.

Control your moods

A foul mood can ruin the moment at any time. No one enjoys a bad mood, and likewise, no one will be happy spending time with a companion in bad mood…especially when it is a long trip . Keep track of your emotions, try to avoid situations that could possibly put you in a bad mood. And if by chance you find yourself suddenly feeling melancholic for no reason, apologize to the companion in advance him or at least give him/them a hint. It may not help matters much, but at least they will have an idea on why your attitude might have changed or why you are acting strangely.

Apologize after an argument

No matter how peaceable or even boring two people are, they are bound to have an argument at some point. Even when you are sure the argument might not necessarily escalate into a fight, it is important to walk away from it if you can. Walk away; calm down and approach the issue with a clearer head. If you give it some thought, you may find out that you might have been a bit wrong. Apologize for that and don’t throw a feat if your companion does not acknowledge or accept the apology immediately. Time is a great healer, with time they most probably would and you could be laughing about it over a cup of tea an hour later.

Take breaks

No matter how interesting you or your companion might be, spending every waking moment together may become stifling in the long run. Ensure you get some time apart from your companions. If your travel companion wants to spend the day at sightseeing or visiting a museum, and you’re dying to explore the malls, why not go your separate ways for a few hours? It will give you both time to relax Or, at least, hate each other less, and you might actually start to miss each other. To keep yourselves sane, where possible, plan ‘alone time’ into the program, and just relax.

By Nkem

Read More

Creative ways to talk with loved ones when travelling

 

A concern for travellers is the expensive cost of making calls especially during international travel. In spite of the efforts made by telecommunication companies to beat down prices by roaming your number, the telephone bills for travellers keeps piling.

As to providing some reprieve, we roundup cost effective ways to make calls anywhere in the world.

Skype

There has been an increase in internet penetration in Africa with as much as 70% of the Nigerian population optimizing internet services such as online telephony at a higher rate.

Skype is a cheap way to make voice and video calls as the user will either buy credit to call a number or have enough internet data to make communicate to another skype user. However, this mode of making calls is reliant on how good your internet connection is.

WhatsApp

Aside from chatting with friends and colleagues, you can now use this app to make inexpensive voice calls. Unlike skype that you cannot call an unsaved number, WhatsApp allows you to call any number of your choice as long as it is saved in your contact.

Roaming

Roaming is a network service that makes it possible for people travelling to use their phones in a foreign country. Roaming may not be an option for some travellers however, it is effective for persons who are not tech savvy or rely on their phones for business and other transactions.

Read More

5 tips to get your mornings off to a great start in Lagos

While some people in Lagos have the natural gift of waking up full of energy and ready to face the day…there are some who need extra motivation and possibly pampering to accept the dawn of the new morning.

If you are within the city and you find yourself registered to the camp of the unlucky for whom mornings are not pleasant.

Start your morning the Night Before

Many times, you may find mornings chaotic because you have so much to do and little time to do them. To save yourself the added stress, try to prepare for the next day the night before. There are a lot of things you can remove completely from your morning to-do list by completing them before you go to bed. Picking out your outfit for the day, sorting your office lunch, even putting bags in the car that you know you need for work are simple tasks to complete the night before, that way all you have to do is brush your teeth, take a bath, put on clothes and shoes, and you are out the door. When you are organized, you are less stressed.

Set Up Your Favorite Song as Your Alarm Tone

Almost everyone in Lagos sets the alarm for the next day before they sleep. Most people believe that an annoying alarm tone is the best move if you want the alarm to actually wake you up, but this may be the reason your mornings have been unbearable.

Rather than set up the alarm with the one sound you dread, try setting it with one of your favorite song. Just ensure the song you pick for the alarm is something fast and loud; R&B or blues would just lull you back to sleep. Using your favourite song as alarm tone does not just give you a good mood swing first thing in the morning, waking up and dancing to the rhythms of that song can refresh you up. You will feel less lethargic and will be pumped with enough positivity to face the rest of the morning.

Add something positive to your morning routine

Mornings are unbearable not necessarily because we have an unsatisfying sleep or were forced to wake up before we were ready to,  they exist because we dread starting our day and dealing with intense commute in places like Lagos.

The thing is, mornings do not have to be all  gloomy.  Plan to do something pleasant and positive at the outset, something you can look forward to, it will make getting up and out of the house much more bearable. It could be something as simple  making a playlist specifically for your morning routine, allowing yourself one glass of early morning juice, watching a funny clip on your phone, listening to an audio novel or devouring the one chunk of carb you allow yourself per day. The moment you can do something fun and get your mind in a positive place, the rest of the morning will not seem like such a chore as your mood will be brightened.

Give yourself transition time

This sounds like a waste of time, but this actually has a solid impact on your entire day, not just morning. You need transition time between sleep and getting out the door. The moment you wake up, your brain literally starts to boot, so, you need to give it time to start up fully before bombarding it with new tasks for the day.

Wake up earlier, and get your blood pumping by doing some stretch or talking a walk round your apartment. Just five minutes of simple stretches can have a huge impact on you both physically and emotionally, throughout the day, it helps stimulate blood flow and kick-start circulation, a sure way to get yourself feeling more alert, faster. Also, taking the time to slowly move your muscles by walking can have beneficial effects on your heart, lungs, digestive system, and brain, and also brings a satisfying start to the day.

Take out 1 minute to just smile

Taking out 30 seconds to one minute to just smile is not weird. The act of smiling has a special way of making us happier. Taking out time to smile fills you with positive energy and keeps you optimistic for the rest of the morning and possibly day.  Smile at yourself in the mirror for the set time, either immediately you wake up morning routine or just before you head out the door. And if the effect wears out and you start to feel negative energy during the day, consider top-up smile session.

By Jovago team

Read More

Nigeria: NSIA, IFC Collaborate to Cut U.S.$1 Billion On Medical Tourism

 

By Martins Ifijeh

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, said they are mapping out strategies to increase investments in the nation's health sector, as part of efforts towards ending the over $ 1 billion Nigerians spend on medical tourism.

Speaking at the NSIA, IFC, joint media briefing in Lagos, Chief Risk Officer and Executive Director, NSIA, Mrs. Stella Ojekwe-Onyejeli, said they are seeking to catalyze private sector investment in the healthcare space by establishing Public-Private Partnerships and innovative solutions, which is their core mandate as they are saddled with the responsibility to invest on behalf of the government.

She said NSIA has set aside $400 million for investment in the economy and could use 35 per cent, about $140 million of it on the health sector, which though small, would serve as the start-up capital, hence the need to look for co-investors like the IFC.

On his part, the IFC Country Director, Eme Essien Lore said there was need to support the private hospital sector in Nigeria so that they can deliver affordable, accessible and quality care informed the forum.

To progress in the sector, she said the country will need innovative approaches like public private partnerships (PPPs), among others to mobilise private capital for public healthcare. According to her, longer term outlook indicates that considerable opportunity exists for the private sector to play a viable role in providing affordable healthcare across the country. Lore said,

"IFC is committed to help increase affordable quality healthcare services by financing and facilitating financing for integrated networks. This will support the development of critical healthcare infrastructure and attract private capital into the sector. "We are working with NSIA to boost investment in the healthcare sector and bridge the gap in under supply of quality healthcare in Nigeria."

Read More

South Africa set to dominate Africa Responsible Tourism Awards

Cape Town – South Africa rules the Africa Responsible Tourism Awards (ARTA), as more than two thirds of the long-listed tourist organisations, initiatives, businesses and projects for the upcoming African Responsible Tourism Awards are based in the southernmost tip of the continent.

The final awards will be announced in Cape Town as part of the Africa Travel Week, taking place from 6 -8 April 2016.

The competition awards responsible tourist initiatives that take responsibility for the environment of African destinations and the local citizens.

“We want to celebrate the shining stars of responsible tourism - the individuals, organisations and destinations working innovatively with local cultures, communities and biodiversity,” ARTA said.

“The variety of organisations which have made it through to the long list this year demonstrates just how powerful a force for good responsible tourism is becoming in Africa,” Heidi van der Watt for ARTA said.

Out of a total of 60 African institutions from 13 African countries, these are the 25 South African contenders for the African Responsible Tourism Award:

!Xaus Lodge

Abang Africa Travel

Access2africasafaris

Africa!Ignite

African Bushcamps

ATKV Goudini Spa


Bushmanskloof

Cape Camino

City of Cape Town

Eco Atlas

Elundini Backpackers

Endeavour Safaris

Epic Enabled

Face Adrenalin/ Bloukrans Bungy

Flamingo Tours & Disabled Ventures

Gauteng Tourism Authority

Hermanus Tourism

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Leriba Hotel Group

National Department of Tourism/ RSA

Original T-Bag Designs 

Proudly Macassar Pottery
QuadPara Association of South Africa

SaltyCrax Adventures & SAVE Foundation

Sani Lodge Backpackers


Last year, South African tourist initiatives were awarded gold in 6 of the 8 categories.

The jury awarded the South African Gansbaai Tourism organisation in the Western Cape the overall gold winner for making Gansbaai a truly responsible tourist destination with a long row of environmental projects.

Several organisations in Gansbaai were also awarded. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in partnership with the Grootbos Foundation was awarded “Best for Poverty Reduction” and Marine Dynamics was awarded “Best for Wildlife Conservation”. South Africa definitely has a reputation to live up to this year.

Winners in the Africa category will automatically be nominated for the world’s most prestigious international tourist award World’s Responsible Tourism Award, set to take place in London in November this year.

Share your travel experiences with us. You can email us at sagewonders@gmail.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter

http://traveller24.news24.com/Explore/Green/south-africa-set-to-dominate-africa-responsible-tourism-awards-20160218

Read More

Festival of India set to hold in Lagos come August

The festival is a collaboration between International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and the India Disapora in Lagos and is designed to bridge the cultural gap between India and Nigeria.

Come August 13, 2016, Lagos will play host to a rich display of Indian culture as the Festival of India holds at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, Lagos.

The festival is a collaboration between International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and the India Disapora in Lagos and is designed to bridge the cultural gap between India and Nigeria.

Speaking at a briefing over the weekend to announce the festival,  CEO of Gaurapad Charities and chairman organising committee, Bolaji Rosoji explained the origin of Festival of India, and its interwoven relationship with Krishna religion.

He also said the goal of the festival is to "celebrate cultural unity and diversity for national and global peace – vasudhaiva kutumbakam (the world is one family). The Festival of India, with the Ratha Yatra (chariot) Festival as its central spectacle, has an inestimable impact on the minds and hearts of literally countless casual visitors and active participants in major cities worldwide. The Ratha Yatra (chariot) Festival originated in the holy city of Puri, India, and has been celebrated for thousands of years. It is a grand culmination of a series of celebrations spread over the summer and the monsoon month and is the most splendid of them all."

According to Rosiji,  the festival would be an international one with dignitaries coming from all over the world while efforts were in place to get President Muhammad Buhari to attend.

He also revealed that his organisation is collaborating with Lagos State, through its Ministry of Culture and Inter-Governmental Affairs, for a successful festival.

Highlights of the festival will include procession display of various Indian costumes, dressing and dance groups representing different states in India.

In addition, the Festival of India will host internationally renowned traditional and contemporary musicians, dancers and dramatic artists from India and Nigeria.

Attendees can also expect things like sumptuous, vegetarian feast, transcendental art and bestselling books on yoga and meditation.

http://pulse.ng/arts_culture/bolaji-rosiji-festival-of-india-set-to-hold-in-lagos-come-august-id4681181.html 

Read More

Nigeria: Cuban Envoy At Ile Ife, Drums Support for Ooni's Cultural Tourism

 

Ile Ife has continued to attract interest across the globe with high profile personalities visiting and holding court with the newly installed Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeleye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja 11, whose towering influence and impressed performance since claiming the throne especially his passionate drive for the unity of the Yoruba race and promotion of cultural tourism with Ife as the new destination.

This time around, the Ooni played host to one of his own, the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos E.Troja Sosa, 'Omowale,' who himself has a history of long association with the palace dating back to the era of the late Oba Sijwuade. He was accompanied on the visit by his wife, Trejo Sosa (Oshunyinka) the deputy envoy, Ms Miriam Morales Palmero (Yemoja) following a royal summon by the Ooni.

The visit spanned two days with the first day witnessing a grand reception for the visiting envoy and his team at the Enu Owa palace where he was treated to musical and cultural entertainment with Osirgi dance group, Abubu Ola and the Elewo Agogo Group and the duo of Olo Midan Bata and Anu, the lady Ekwe from the stable of Atunda Entertainment as well as Sango Oba Koso, which is known in the Caribbean as Shango.

This was later followed in the evening by a private dinner hosted for the visitors by the Ooni, who is also the grand patron of Motherland Beckons, an organsiation founded by Otunba Wanle Akinboboye, who is the president of La Campagne and also the consultant and adviser on tourism to the Ooni, who has on assumption of the throne declared his intention of turning Ife into a tourism destination.

The night ended with tour of Omi Yeye Moolu, a mysterious river within the inner recesses of the palace while on the second day of the visitor, the team was at the Ile - Ife Grand Resort and Leisure site, a 156 hectare of land, which on completion is to house a N7.6 billion resort. A baby of the Ooni, which is envisaged to provide employment for hundreds of the people and opened up the tourism economy of Ile - Ife.

Thereafter, the team visited Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) where the Cuban envoy held court with the students at the amphitheatre. He also visited the Natural History of Museum and the Institute of Cultural Studies.

The two days visit was most instructive as it afforded the Ooni and his guests the opportunity to exchange ideas and pledge cooperation in the area of the promotion of cultural tourism given that Cuba and Nigeria has a long history and that majority of its population, as disclosed by the envoy as of Yoruba descend with many as devotees of Ifa.

Ambassador Sosa was impressed by the tourism dream of the Ooni especially the Ile - Ife Grand Resort and also the planned declaration of Ife as a tourism zone. According to the envoy, these are laudable projects, which he is happy to be associated with and run his weight behind even as he promised the Ooni and the people of the unalloyed support of his office and that of his country.

Oba Ojaja 11 also took time to educate and expose his visitors to the rich history and tradition of his people and the supremacy of Ile - Ife. He debunked the migratory theory about Ile - Ife and declared that Ile - Ife is indeed the cradle of mankind and not only that of the Yorubas alone.

He further delved into mystic and esoteric belief that Olodumare, the creator of the universe, controls the world from Ile - Ife, as evidenced by the mysterious Igi Nla, White Forest, Ark of Noah and Tower of Babel, all domiciled in Ile-Ife. He elaborated on the significance of the 201 deities created by Olodumare and their relationship with mankind, right from the Adam and Eve days of old.

http://allafrica.com/stories/201602190758.html

Read More

Nigeria set to have travellers guide and tourism book

 

Current affairs, information about mineral and natural resources and their locations in different states, recreational centres, trending businesses in the country and tourist sites are just some of the things the book will contain.

 

Nigeria is set to have a travellers guide and tourism book as Nigerian Tourism Europe, is collaborating with Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) and Motoring World International to launch Nigeria Travellers Guide and Tourism book.

According to The Guardian, the book is an international publication being put together to guide, educate and inform travellers and holiday makers worldwide about tourism facilities, centres and destinations in Nigeria.

Current affairs, information about mineral and natural resources and their locations in different states, recreational centres, trending businesses in the country and tourist sites are just some of the things the book will contain.

Speaking on the project,  Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Tourism Europe, Prince Okes Masisma stated that the project aims to kick-start the development and growth of Nigeria’s tourism industry and showcase the country as a destination for holiday makers all over the world.

Describing it as "the kind of book that is supposed to be seen in all the airports in the world so that people coming to Nigeria get to know the country", Masisma pointed out that other African countries have theirs and Nigeria shouldn't be left out.

He also added that “given the continuing crash in oil price in the world market, now is the time for Nigeria to diversify and increase her sources of foreign exchange earnings."

Read More

Nigerian forum inks pact for expat travel

 

COLLABORATION: From left: Shiberu Mamo, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Ethiopia, Qatar, Nebiat Hailemichael, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines, Amadi Nwokocha, NIDO-Qatar President and Enoch Pear Duchi, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria.

For the benefit of respective community members, two entities from Nigeria and Ethiopia have come forward and formally pledged to co-operate and make use of each other’s services.

The Nigerians In Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Qatar, the representative of the Nigerian community in Qatar, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopian Airlines, for co-operation and mutual usage of services provided by both entities and promotion of special offers and discounts from Ethiopian Airlines to the Nigerian community in Qatar. The agreement, which was signed last week, is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension.

The terms of the MoU include a special offer by Ethiopian Airlines to the Nigerian community of 15% discounts on existing-applicable passenger fares from Qatar to Nigeria, 2pc/23kg baggage allowance and cargo rates that are more attractive to all Nigerian destinations.

NIDO-Qatar will provide an avenue on its social media platforms and sponsored community events to distribute Ethiopian Airlines brochures and fliers to its members.

The agreement was signed in the presence of the Enoch Pear Duchi, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria, Qatar; Shiberu Mamo, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Ethiopia, Qatar; Amadi Nwokocha, NIDO-Qatar President and Nebiat Hailemichael, Area Manager of Ethiopian Airlines.

“It is encouraging to witness such an initiative. Both parties have to be faithful to the agreement and I am certain that the Ethiopian Airlines will do their best to honour the terms of the agreement while NIDO should also take this advantage,” said Duchi.

“I encourage NIDO to reach out to the Nigerian community and tell them about this laudable agreement with the airline; encourage them to patronise the airline. I am sure the Enugu route would have many passengers during the festive period and am sure Ethiopian will enjoy the relationship,” he added.

The Ethiopian envoy congratulated the airline and the Nigerian community for the agreement. He emphasised the safety, customer service and effective air service of the airline. “Ethiopian Airlines is the largest, fastest and the most profitable airline group in Africa serving more than 90 destinations and flying to four cities in Nigeria — Lagos, Abuja, Enugu and Kano. As a pan-African airline, Ethiopian Airlines started the flight to Nigeria in 1960. It has been serving our Nigerian brothers and sisters for more than five decades without interruption, even at the time of crisis like Ebola,” said Nebiat Hailemichael, Area Manager of the airline.
“We have a convenient connection with less than two hours connection time in Addis Ababa for Abuja, Lagos and Kano,” he informed the audience.

According to NIDO-Qatar, membership registration is required to access these special offers. Registered members of the community wishing to travel to Nigeria should obtain the discount code from NIDO-Qatar Executive Council members, can go online to Ethiopian Airline website and make their booking to their desired Nigerian destination, enter the code and automatically receive the 15% discount on the fare.

Ethiopian commands the lion share of the pan-African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 85 international destinations across five continents.

Ethiopian fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-200 Freighter and Bombardier Q-400 with double cabin. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate these aircraft.

Recently, NIDO-Qatar launched its new website and membership card to assist both public and private entities in Qatar in sourcing for information and opportunities in Nigeria. The membership card is to create avenues for discounts on purchases and services.

The organisation is the umbrella body of over 7,500 Nigerians in Qatar. Its aims are to promote unity, love and harmony amongst all Nigerians living in the State of Qatar, promote the image of our country and assist every Nigerian in Qatar to achieve their legitimate personal goals and aspirations.

By Umer Nangiana

Read More

#SAAConnectsAbuja – SAA Connects Abuja to the tail end of the world

On the 27th of January 2016, history was made as South African Airways, Africa’s leading airline that have won the SkyTrax Awards for the best African carrier for 13th consecutive years, touched down in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city in the early hours of the morning at exactly 6:15am.

Not that this is the first time SAA is landing on Nigeria soil, but it is certainly the very first time, heralding a new chapter in the history of South Africa and Nigeria that the airline touched down in Abuja – All the works, plans and commitment of both nations came to fruition as SAA commences Johannesburg-Abuja flight on that epoch day.

The inaugural SAA Johannesburg-Abuja flight like any other all over the world landed with pomp and celebration with over 150 passengers which included dignitaries from both countries, businessmen, private passengers and of course members of the media.

Water salute for the SAA Johannesburg-Abuja inaugural flight

The Nigerian Fire Service stationed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport became the very first agency to welcome the aircraft to Abuja with two colourful water tank shower.

South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Lulu Louis Mnguni received the dignitaries at the SAA check-in counter for a formal mini ribbon cutting ceremony before heading to the majestic Transcorp Hilton Hotel in the heart of Abuja business district where the gracious celebration took place later same evening.

Acting Chief Executive Officer, South Africa Airways, Musa Zwane (right); South Africa High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lulu Mnguni; SAA Board Member, Yakhe Kwinana; General Manager, Operations Zuks Ramasia; General Manager Commercial, Aaron Muretsi and Dr John Tambi SAA Board Member during the Inaugural Flight of South African Airways, Abuja-Johannesburg Route

In the evening of same day, the fountain area of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel was beautifully decorated with SAA blue and red colours, sparkling to the high heavens as the light rays clashed stunningly with the water fountains.

#SAAConnectsAbuja

The dignitaries and the invited guests elegantly walked into the venue that have been so well decorated to celebrate another new positive chapter in the renewed brotherliness of South Africa and Nigeria.

“We are happy to witness this day in the history of both South Africa and Nigeria and to deepen Africa Agenda. This truly shows both countries commitment to the development human and business relations”,

South African High Commissioner said during his opening speech at the SAA inaugural Johannesburg-Abuja flight launch dinner.

SAA acting Chief Executive Officer, Musa Zwane glaringly a proud man on the occasion of the launch said,

“I am very proud today to stand in front of you on behalf of our staff to announce the launch of Johannesburg-Abuja route and it is such a great present for us as we attain 82 years. We have flown here for 20 years and have seen the growth of the Nigerian market overtime, hence the decision to fly to Abuja’’.

Senator Hadi Sirika, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Aviation, who was represented at the occasion by Mr Hassan Musa, the Director of Air Transport, Ministry of Transportation, praised the commitment of SAA in ensuring further integration of South Africa and Nigeria – the two most powerful economies on the continent of Africa.

He observed that virtually all African airlines had more than one entry point into Nigeria. Therefore, Sirika said that Nigeria would work assiduously to ensure the integration of the African continent through aviation and other sectors.

Lusanda Jiya, SAA GM Stakeholder Relations presents gift to Mr Hassan Musa, the Director of Air Transport, Ministry of Transportation

In between the speeches, there were colourful traditional dance performance from the indigenes of Abuja, known as the Gbagyi people. The celebration also witnessed stand-up comedy performance from Buchi, popular Nigerian comedian.

Africa renowned entertainment personality, IK Osakioduwa host of Big Brother Africa added glitz to the event as compere while Praiz, Nigeria soulful singer infused dance and romantic rhythm to the event.
The Johannesburg-Abuja SAA inaugural flight extended beyond celebrations at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. For two days, South African delegation toured the city of Abuja exploring all the beautiful sights and sounds including food.

The delegation started with a visit to Jevenik Restaurant for a taste of Nigerian menu, then explored the impregnable Zuma Rock – The rock with human face – just outskirt of the city of Abuja. Afterwards, the visiting South Africans visited Ushafa Village (otherwise known as President Bill Clinton Village) where the delegation danced to the live rhythm of the Gbagyi people, inhabitants of the village after a special reception by the traditional ruler. The delegation also witnessed the art of pottery for which the village is famous. President Bill Clinton had earlier in 2001 put Ushafa Village on world tourism map by visiting the village alongside his daughter, Chelsea during his state visit to Nigeria.

South Africa delegation with the Traditional Ruler of Ushafa Village

Undone with exploring the beauty of Abuja, the South African delegation also visited the new Jabi Lake Mall constructed and managed by South African firm before arriving the world renowned Nike Art Gallery where art speaks volume.
 

To appreciate a variety of handmade artifacts and souvenirs, the delegation also visited the Abuja arts and craft market.

credit: BellaNaija.com

In the end, SAA successfully connects Abuja to the tail end of the world #SAAConnectsAbuja

Read More