By: Manoah Kikekon
A prominent group of American tourists and members of the African diaspora recently concluded a transformative cultural immersion in Lagos, Nigeria. The visitors, who explored the city’s vibrant traditions, heritage sites, and culinary landscape, expressed that their firsthand experiences will play a pivotal role in reshaping the often-negative global perception of Nigeria.
The tour, facilitated by the Goge Africa Travel Club, culminated in a grand dinner hosted on Monday. Supported by Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the event celebrated the bridge being built between Nigeria and its diaspora.
Over a two-day itinerary, the 19-member group comprising various nationalities residing in the United States delved into the heart of Lagos. Their journey included visits to: Local Markets: Experiencing the pulse of Nigerian commerce. Museums and Heritage Sites: Documenting the historical depth of the region. Traditional Engagements: Participating in naming ceremonies and cultural rites.
Isaac Moses, CEO of Goge Africa, highlighted that these trips are essential for countering "skepticism" and foreign narratives. He noted that while visitors often arrive with "fingers crossed" due to negative media, the reality of Nigerian hospitality usually exceeds their expectations.
A key objective of the visit was to showcase the indigenous identity of Lagos. Idris Aregbe addressed the common misconception that Lagos lacks a distinct native culture.
"People think that Lagos is no man’s land... but Lagos has a rich, documented culture spanning from Badagry to the mainland," Aregbe stated.
He emphasized that cultural tourism is not just a branding tool but a significant economic driver. International visitors bring foreign exchange that directly impacts local hotels, transportation services, and the culinary industry, boosting the state's overall economic turnover.
While the experience was largely positive, the tourists and organizers were candid about the challenges facing Nigeria's tourism infrastructure.
Key areas for growth identified during the tour included: Transportation: Visitors noted that standard rental buses were often cramped and uncomfortable for long-haul tourism. Specialized Vehicles: There is an urgent call for investors to provide "tour buses" similar to those found in major African hubs like Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt. Culinary Adaptation: Some visitors found the traditional spice levels ("heat") of Nigerian cuisine challenging, suggesting a need for more diverse palate options in tourist settings.
For many, the trip was more than a vacation it was a spiritual return. Karen Morris-Clarke, founder of Bella World of Travel and the group’s leader, shared her personal journey of discovery. After a DNA test revealed Nigerian ancestry, the Jamaican-born, U.S.-based traveler felt a profound need to "come home."
Despite the "stigma" often associated with Nigeria abroad, Morris-Clarke praised the safety and warmth she encountered. "I’m happy I came. I experienced it for myself," she remarked, echoing the sentiment that personal experience is the most effective cure for prejudice.
Food remains one of Nigeria’s most potent cultural exports. Chef Gbolabo Adebakin (Chef Gibbs), convener of the Nigeria Food Summit, argued that culinary tourism is the "oldest form of tourism."