Sunday, July 20th, 2025
What are the challenges of travelling with Nigeria from other countries such as Nigeria, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the UK that have exposed Nigerians to difficult visa immigration rules? These visa restrictions are part of the large immigration restrictions that affect outbound tourism as well as inbound tourism.
Countries such as the US have introduced new visa rules that include a three-month single-entry visa instead of the five-year multi-force visa available. This development will disrupt international travel if it becomes operational and explain that options will continue to be closed as Nigerians host family and friends abroad. In addition to these enforced visa restrictions, the barriers are unattractive to foreign tourists visiting Nigeria, as they fear mutual policy and travel ambiguity.
“Even though Nigeria is a member of ECOWAS, mobility within Africa remains a challenge. To date, visas are a barrier to travel between African countries despite the need to build regional tourism and cultural interactions.
Visa restrictions have been particularly difficult for Nigerian tourism operators. Nigeria reports a decline in both inbound and outbound travel. Coupled with a lack of a favorable visa policy for African travelers, restrictions have contributed to a decline in tourism income and a decline in international visitors. The mobility challenge is further exacerbated by the current visa environment, limiting opportunities for African tourists and affecting local operators.
However, it has been suggested that Nigeria can overcome these challenges by focusing on regional tourism. Expanding visa-free or arriving visa access to more African countries could unlock the possibilities of the tourism sector. Investments in infrastructure and regulatory reforms are also recommended to improve tourism landscapes and support local travel.
Calling for a focus on regional exploration and tourism
In light of rising international travel restrictions, there is a call for a shift in focus to domestic and regional tourism. By exploring local and local destinations, travelers have access to cultural and natural assets within Africa that have often been overlooked. Africa has a diverse range of landscapes, historical sites and rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive alternative to international travel.
Various African destinations offer unique experiences, from natural landmarks like the sacred hills of Osun, Nigeria, to Gambia beaches and East African safaris. These attractions highlight the potential of Africa as a thriving tourism hub without the need for a long visa process or denial that often stops international travel.
Promotion of regional tourism is supported by initiatives such as the Destination West Africa programme, which aims to promote visa-free travel within the region and promote greater ties between African countries. The initiative aims to promote deeper cultural exchanges and support tourism growth through regional cooperation.
The Future of Tourism in Africa: A New Focus
Nigerian Travellers The more stringent restrictions on Nigerian travellers highlight the potential for tourism in Africa. Continental cultural, historical and natural funds can provide an alternative to international travel, as many African countries have what they need to attract both regional and international tourists.
To benefit from this, decision makers need to implement appropriate infrastructure and security for local tourists to ensure the quality of visitors locally. If you focus on local mobility, visa policy reforms, and introducing continental tourism assets, you can remain a global tourist destination destination.
