Why Heritage Tourism is Booming in Nigeria: 2025 Insights

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If you’ve been on Instagram or TikTok recently, you might have noticed something interesting: Nigerians are travelling more, not just for fun, but to connect with their roots.

From ancient palaces in Benin to the sacred groves in Osogbo, heritage tourism is experiencing a resurgence in Nigeria. And in 2025, it’s no longer just a niche trend; it’s a booming industry that’s pulling in young Nigerians, diaspora returnees, and curious foreigners alike.

But why now? What changed? And where is all this buzz heading?

Let’s break it down.

What is Heritage Tourism?

Heritage tourism simply means travelling to experience the culture, history, traditions, and lifestyle of a place. In Nigeria, that could mean:

• Visiting the ancient Nok Terracotta sites in Kaduna
• Watching the Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi
• Touring the Slave History Museum in Calabar
• Participating in the Osun-Osogbo Festival
• Exploring the Awhum caves and waterfalls in Enugu

It’s all about connecting with stories from the past, and many Gen Z and Millennials are here for it.

What’s Driving the Boom in Heritage Tourism in 2025?

Here are the real reasons heritage travel is taking off in Nigeria this year:

1. Diaspora Nigerians are coming home for culture

According to the BusinessDay Nigeria article (2025), platforms like Heritage Voyage Africa are seeing a surge in bookings from Nigerians living abroad.

Many second- and third-generation Nigerians are returning to learn about their heritage, asking questions like:

• “Where did my great-grandparents live?”
• “What tribe am I from?”
• “What festivals were part of my people’s story?”

This ancestral curiosity is turning into real tourism numbers and money.

 

2. Younger Nigerians are craving connection

Gen Z is not all about jollof and vibes anymore. Many young people are actively seeking cultural experiences to understand their identity beyond what textbooks and TikTok trends offer.

They’re visiting:

• Traditional blacksmith workshops in Iseyin
• Heritage homes in Abeokuta
• The National Museum in Lagos
• Yoruba origin sites in Ile-Ife

Heritage travel is becoming a lifestyle choice for self-aware, culture-curious Nigerians.

 

3. Festivals are making a strong comeback

The Osun-Osogbo Festival, Durbar in Kano, and Ofala Festival in Anambra are back in full swing after the post-COVID slump.

In 2024, over 100,000 people attended the Osun-Osogbo festival, including guests from the UK, Brazil, and the U.S., according to figures from the Osun State Tourism Board.

These events are now not just traditional; they’re Instagrammable, sponsored, and economically viable.

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• 5 Must-Visit Ancient Cities in Nigeria: History & Top Attractions
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• Top Cultural Festivals in Nigeria Every Gen Z Should Attend

 

4. Private tour companies are filling the gaps

Tourism isn’t just run by the government anymore. Private brands are making it easier and cooler to explore heritage.

Some notable names:

• Heritage Voyage Africa curates ancestral and cultural trips
  
• BTMA Tours—focuses on diaspora reconnecting with ancestral roots
  
• Irinajo—a travel storytelling platform promoting authentic local trips
  
• Nigerian Field Society—offers academic and cultural excursions.
• Angel Style World Travels & Tours Limited offers international tour packages, Nigeria tours, Destination West Africa, visa advisory, travel insurance, corporate travel, and more.

These players are removing the stress of planning while adding cultural depth and safety to the experience.

 

5. Government support is slowly improving

While not perfect, Nigeria’s government has started making real moves to support heritage tourism.

Notable efforts:

• Partnerships between the Federal Ministry of Culture and state tourism boards (e.g., Ogun State Heritage Revamp Plan)
• Restoration projects like the National Museum in Jos and the slave port relics in Badagry

While funding remains an issue, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are showing early results in 2025.

Hot Heritage Travel Spots in Nigeria (2025 Edition)

Here are some of the top cultural and historic destinations drawing tourists this year:

1. Ile-Ife, Osun State

The spiritual home of the Yoruba people. A visit to the Ooni’s Palace, Ifa temples, and National Museum Ife gives you a front-row seat to West Africa’s oldest civilisation.

2. Benin City, Edo State

The reconstructed Benin Royal Museum, the palace of the Oba, and ancient bronze works are attracting art lovers and diaspora tourists alike.

3. Calabar, Cross River State

With the Slave History Museum, Mary Slessor’s House, and Old Residency Museum, Calabar offers a deep dive into Nigeria’s pre-colonial and colonial stories.

4. Abeokuta, Ogun State

Visit the Olumo Rock, Itoku Adire Market, and century-old homes in Ake to connect with Yoruba resilience and culture.

5. Argungu, Kebbi State

The Argungu Fishing Festival is one of the most visually stunning and culturally rich events in Nigeria.

Challenges Still Facing Heritage Tourism

It’s not all smooth sailing. Here are some areas that still need work:

• Poor infrastructure: Roads to key sites (e.g., Nok, Osun grove) are often in poor condition.
• Security concerns: Inconsistent safety in certain states discourages tourism.
• Low awareness: Many Nigerians are unaware of the value of their local heritage.
• Limited digital promotion: Most sites lack strong online visibility.

 

Showcase Nigeria Through Your Lens – Join Our Open Call for Creators

Are you a photographer, videographer, or content creator passionate about capturing Nigeria’s beauty, from fashion runways and cultural festivals to tourist landmarks and local events? Our Open Call for Content Creators in Nigeria is your opportunity to get featured, collaborate, and bring authentic Nigerian stories to life. Whether you’re into travel, lifestyle, or visual storytelling, we want to see Nigeria through your eyes.

 Explore more stories on tourism in Nigeria – from cultural gems to hidden travel destinations.

 

FAQs About Heritage Tourism in Nigeria

Is heritage tourism safe in Nigeria?

Yes, when you travel with trusted guides or companies. Avoid volatile regions and check local updates.

Is it expensive to explore heritage sites in Nigeria?

Not necessarily. Most entry fees are affordable. Group tours and local packages reduce costs.

Can diaspora Nigerians trace their ancestral villages?

Yes. Some platforms, such as BTMA Tours and Heritage Voyage Africa, now offer DNA-based ancestral trips.

What are the best months to travel for festivals?

Between July and December, depending on the location and festival calendar.