NBTF 2024: Experts Urge Nigeria and Benin Governments to Collaborate for Tourism Development
Cotonou
The recently concluded Nigeria-Benin Tourism Forum (NBTF) 2024, held at the prestigious Benin Royal Hotel in Cotonou, Benin, brought to the forefront a critical conversation about the need for collaboration between Nigeria and Benin in the tourism sector. The forum, which centered around the theme “Harnessing Tourism Potential for Mutual Development”, saw experts from both countries advising their governments to join forces for the benefit of tourism growth and cultural exchange while deliberating on the session’s topic: Boosting Tourism between Nigeria and Benin: What can be done?
At the heart of the first panel session was a strong call for increased bilateral efforts to harness the rich historical and cultural connections between Nigeria and Benin in order to boost tourism between the two countries.
Tourism and cultural experts emphasized that cooperation between the two nations could unlock mutual benefits and significantly enhance their tourism industries. The panel highlighted how both countries, with their deep historical ties and cultural heritage, stand to gain by working together on tourism projects and initiatives.
One of the key voices at the forum, Professor John N. Igue a University Don, former Minister and President of Yoruba Association in Benin Republic traced the historical connection between Nigeria and Benin. He provided an insightful analysis of the long-standing relationship that dates back to pre-colonial times, when the Kingdoms of Benin and Oyo, among others, shared economic and cultural ties. The people of both nations were linked through trade, migration, and shared cultural traditions, particularly in the areas of festivals, religion, and art.
Prof. Igue then drew attention to the current realities facing the tourism sectors in both countries. While acknowledging the progress made in recent years, he argued that more should be done, particularly from Benin’s side, to reach out to Nigeria and address certain challenges. He pointed out that both nations have a shared interest in promoting cross-border tourism, which could boost the economy, create jobs, and foster better diplomatic relations. He urged the governments of Nigeria and Benin to create joint tourism programs that would enable easier movement of tourists between the two nations and enhance visibility for their cultural landmarks.
Prof. John Igue, a University Don, former Minister and President of Yoruba Association in Benin speaking at the session
Historical examples were provided as inspiration for future cooperation. The ancient trans-Saharan trade routes, which connected various kingdoms in West Africa, including the Benin and Oyo empires, were cited as a model for how collaboration could lead to prosperity. Today, this cooperation could take the form of cultural festivals, heritage tours, and improved transportation links, especially between key tourist sites such as Benin City, Nigeria, and Porto-Novo, Benin.
Other experts at the forum which included ; Nkereuwem Onung, President of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), represented by Mr. Lucky George, Executive Director of Africa Travel Commission ; Hon. Dine Bouraima, President of Consortium Touristes Par Millions Au Benin and Vice President of the African Tourism Board (ATB); Amb. Ikechi Uko, Founder and Convener of Akwaaba African Travel Market; Hon. Alhaja Moroufatou Falola, Deputy Mayor of Ifagni Municipality; Mr. Jean-Jacques Houndjagoh, President, Director General, Group CBM Voyage; Mr. Atonda Eugene Dieudonne, President, National du CONIHB ( Conseil National de I’lndustrie Hoteliere du Bénin) and Mr. Richard Lohento, Secretary-General, Consortium Touristes Par Millions Au Benin echoed similar sentiments, calling for the development of a regional tourism strategy that leverages the strengths of both countries. They suggested initiatives such as joint marketing campaigns, the development of cross-border tourism infrastructure, and the simplification of visa processes for tourists visiting both nations. The panel session was moderated by Dr. Olanma Ojukwu, CEO, GOTA Voyage International Group and Mr. Paulin Vissoh, CEO Exparts Partner.
The NBTF 2024 which was organized by Kalo Africa Media and Exparts Partner in collaboration with Consortium Touristes Par Millions Au Benin and the supported by the African Tourism Board marks a significant milestone in efforts to foster greater tourism collaboration between Nigeria and Benin. It remains to be seen how the governments of both countries will respond to these calls for action, but the forum has certainly laid the groundwork for what could become a model of regional tourism cooperation in West Africa.
The potential benefits of such a partnership are vast. With the right investment and political will, Nigeria and Benin could emerge as leading tourism destinations in Africa, showcasing their rich histories, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural landscapes to the world.
