Mr Ibrahim Makanjuola, Managing Director, Getittome Travels
Some tour operators have highlighted several tourist sites with the potential of boosting domestic tourism in Nigeria, if widely promoted.
The operators said many of these tourist destinations still remain unknown to the public, in spite of efforts to boost domestic tourism.
The Managing Director of Getittome Travels, Mr Ibrahim Makanjuola, said Nigeria was home to breathtaking attractions that needed their beauty and richness to be showcased.
Makanjuola, who is also the Convener of Tour Operators International Conference and Expo, said: “There are countless hidden gems but I’ll mention just a few.
“We have Agbokim Waterfall in Cross River, Sumu Wildlife Park in Bauchi, Gembu in Taraba, and the Yusufari Sand Dunes in Yobe.
“There’s Igbeti Hill in Oyo State, Ayinkunugba Waterfall in Osun State, and River Ethiope in Delta State among many others.”
He urged government’s, including the private sector investment in these destinations to enhance visibility and accessibility for tourists.
Also, the Principal Partner, ATGadventours, a travel and tour firm, Mr Alade Gabriel, said while a few destinations, as well as festivals, particularly in Ogun, Osun and Ekiti states, are beginning to gain recognition, many others remain in the shadows.
Mr Alade Gabriel, Principal Partner, ATGadventours
Gabriel, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of ATG Paparazzi, noted that even among Nigerians, awareness of local tourism opportunities remain low.
“Most Nigerians don’t know half the beauty we have here.
“For example, there’s the trade by barter market in Ogun State, a night market in Imakun Omi Ijebu Waterside, that draws thousands of traders and visitors, but no government attention,” he said.
Beyond festivals, Daniel drew attention to underrated destinations such as Makoko in Lagos State, and under-promoted ones like Ikogosi Warm Springs in Ekiti and pockets of rustic charm in Oyo State.
He said that many of these destinations were absent from official promotional efforts.
He called for collaboration and innovation among tour operators, and support from both Federal and state governments for destination marketing and infrastructure.
“Imagine if each state had a dedicated media team to promote its festivals.
“One photographer alone helped elevate Ojude Oba to a global stage without government support,” he said.