As the world celebrates World Tourism Day on September 27, Nigerian TikTok creators are playing a key role in promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage and tourism sector. Through hashtags like #TikTokTravel, #TravelTips, #PlacesToVisitInLagos, and #LuxuryTravel, they are inspiring both local and global audiences to explore Nigeria’s hidden gems.
World Tourism Day serves as a prelude to Nigeria’s much-anticipated end-of-year festivities, known as #DettyDecember. This month-long celebration, filled with concerts, festivals, and cultural gatherings, attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. From Lagos to Abuja, Detty December showcases Nigeria’s cultural, music, and entertainment scenes at their peak, offering an unparalleled experience for tourists and locals alike.
Nigerian content creators are at the forefront of highlighting the excitement of World Tourism Day and the upcoming Detty December. With TikTok’s short-form video format and viral reach, they are showcasing Nigeria’s vibrant cultural sites, festive celebrations, and natural wonders. Popular destinations like Yankari Game Reserve, Lekki Conservation Center, Obudu Mountain Resort, and Agbokim Waterfall feature prominently in their content, inspiring travelers to visit these scenic spots.
A recent TikTok Marketing Science US Custom Travel Destination Survey via AYTM in April 2024 revealed that travel-related hashtags, particularly #TravelTok, perform exceptionally well on the platform, with over 1.7 million creations. This surge in travel content is helping to redefine how the world sees Nigerian tourism.
Several Nigerian TikTok creators are leading this tourism renaissance, bringing both well-known and underexplored destinations to life:
- Lade Ibikunle (@ladeibikunle) takes viewers on a journey beyond Lagos, exploring festivities in smaller towns and remote villages, offering an authentic glimpse of rural Nigeria.
- Steven Ndukwu brings a cultural lens to his content, showcasing lesser-known traditions and customs that highlight Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.
- Odenike Oresanya (@heynikeh), a solo female traveler who has explored all 36 states, focuses on empowering women to embark on their own adventures, emphasising Nigeria’s safety and beauty for female explorers.
- Niyi Fagbemi (@theniyifagbemi) stands out with cinematic drone footage of Nigeria’s landscapes and cultural festivals, delivering breathtaking visuals that captivate audiences and elevate Nigeria as a top destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
- Boma Queen Wilcox (@coxie_thebrand) provides historical and cultural insights, transforming her platform into a virtual tour guide for travelers seeking deeper connections to Nigeria’s past and present.
- Nnenna Chibueze (@waka_waka_nnenna), based in Abuja, reveals hidden gems and vibrant cultural experiences in the capital city, giving viewers an insider’s perspective on both popular and overlooked destinations.
- Jumoke Munu (@thejumokesmiley_), a Yoruba-language travel vlogger, brings a unique and authentic voice to the platform, highlighting Nigeria’s cultural heritage through her native language. She adds a rich, authentic element to her videos, perfect for those wanting to connect more deeply with Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
For those planning to experience Detty December firsthand, Ephraim Bulus (@freezle_), founder of Explore 9ja, is an essential guide. Through his detailed content, Freezle provides valuable tips on navigating Nigeria’s bustling cities, finding hidden gems, and making the most of travel experiences. From logistics to local recommendations, his platform is a go-to resource for anyone exploring Nigeria.
As Nigeria prepares to welcome millions of visitors in 2024, TikTok is emerging as a key platform for promoting the country’s tourism potential. By showcasing the beauty, culture, and excitement of Nigeria, these creators are helping to redefine how both locals and international visitors experience the country. They serve as ultimate guides to experiencing the best of Nigeria’s tourism scene this year.
Melissa Enoch
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