Benin Partners with Nigerian Tour Operators to Boost Regional Tourism Ties

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The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) and tourism stakeholders in the Republic of Benin are deepening their collaboration to invigorate intra-African travel and reduce reliance on overseas vacation spots. 

This renewed effort was underscored by an ongoing two-day tour of Benin by NATOP members, highlighting the association’s commitment to strengthening partnerships within West Africa.

The initiative, a joint effort between NATOP and Consortium Tourism by Millions of Benin (CTMB), with support from Azalai Hotel and Benin Royal Hotel, aims to develop compelling tour packages for African travellers ahead of the upcoming summer holiday season.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the president of NATOP, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, stated on July 26 in Cotonou that the tour aimed to develop tour packages targeted at African travellers ahead of the upcoming summer holiday season.

Mustapha, who is also the founder of Grand Express Tour Centre, added that the tour would help Nigerian tour operators meet their Beninese counterparts, allowing them to explore packaging strategies and deepen their understanding of local tourism destinations.

“The essence of farm trips is to know well about the products you want to sell, not just selling on the phone.

“You need to experience what you want to give to others,” she said.

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Additionally, Dine Bouraima​, the president of the Consortium Tourism by Millions of Benin (CTMB), Dine Bouraima, said the collaboration would be beneficial and boost both nations’ tourism industries.

Bouraima, who is also the Founder of the Benin Royal Hotel, noted that visa restrictions by some nations, particularly the USA, have deterred many tourists from travelling.

He discouraged tourists from seeking destinations outside of Africa.

“Benin needs Nigeria. We need Nigeria, and we want to work together.

“And if this relationship is good for Nigeria and good for Benin, why take your money outside.

Benin is safe. Very safe. It is clean,” he said.

Bouraima assured the tour operators of his commitment to ensuring that Nigeria and Benin promote Africa.

Dr Olunma Ojukwu, Co-founder of God’s Own Travel Agency (GOTA), said the tour was long overdue, adding that West African tour operators had craved such a platform to get to know themselves.

According to the travel and tourism consultant, who has been running the business for about 16 years, the platform will help tour operators market their destinations at international trade and travel shows as a single product.

“When you travel abroad, you see the East Africans selling in their pavilion; you have one single visa, and then you’re able to visit several countries.

“You also have this in the European world,” she said.

The group is also expected to visit the Venice of Africa, a town where everything is done on water.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers

What is the main goal of the collaboration between Nigerian and Beninese tour operators?

The primary goal is to promote intra-African travel, encourage more Africans to explore destinations within the continent, and reduce the dependence on overseas vacation spots, especially given international visa restrictions.

Which organisations are involved in this cross-border tourism initiative?

The collaboration is led by the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) and the Consortium Tourism by Millions of Benin (CTMB). Azalai Hotel and Benin Royal Hotel also support them.

Why are tour operators conducting “farm trips” to Benin?

Farm trips allow tour operators to experience the destinations and products firsthand. This direct experience enables them to understand their offerings better, package them more effectively, and sell them more effectively to their clients, rather than just selling based on information.

How does this collaboration benefit both Nigeria and Benin?

This partnership is expected to boost the tourism industries of both nations significantly. Creating attractive intra-African tour packages can lead to increased tourist traffic, revenue generation, and cultural exchange within the region.

What challenges are encouraging this focus on intra-African travel?

One significant challenge mentioned is the visa restrictions imposed by some international nations, which deter many tourists from travelling outside Africa. This makes promoting accessible and attractive African destinations even more crucial.

What specific locations did the tour operators visit in Benin, or are planning to visit?

The tour operators visited sites such as the Amazon Square and Family Beach. They are also scheduled to see the “Venice of Africa,” a town where everything is done on water.