The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) announced that over 17 million Nigerians travelled abroad between 2023 and 2024, highlighting a significant surge in outbound tourism and its growing impact on the country’s travel economy.
The association disclosed plans to host the maiden edition of the Eastern Travel Market 2025 in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, from August 27 to 30, 2025.
Hope Ehiogie, Vice Chairman of NANTA, Eastern Zone, made this disclosure during a news briefing in Port Harcourt.
As reported by Punch news, the event is expected to bring together over 1,000 travel professionals to explore the future of Nigeria’s travel industry. It will also spotlight airlines, hospitality providers, medical institutions, and other key stakeholders across the South-South and South-East regions, collectively called the Eastern Zone.
Ehiogie stated that the 17 million significantly increases overseas travel and tours.
He said, “The Nigerian travel industry has seen significant growth, with 17 million people travelling out of the country in 2023.”
Ehiogie further said the potential of tourism and travel would bring over $12 million into the nation’s economy by 2026, a major spike in the sector, as 2024 recorded about $4 million.
Tourism and travel have the potential to generate about $12 million for the nation’s economy by 2026, up from $4 million last year.
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In the area of travel, over 17 million Nigerians travelled out of the country two years ago for different purposes. This included health, religious purposes, visits, education, and other things,” Ehiogie said.
While highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s tourism, he said the hospitality industry in Nigeria has come of age and is now second to none.
The Vice Chairman of NANTA, Eastern Zone, further said, “We are not creating an enabling environment for business to thrive. We need to support the industry and provide the necessary infrastructure for growth.”
He said the country has much tourism potential, especially as the government now shows interest in and supports the sector.
Ehiogie emphasises that NANTA has supported the industry with initiatives such as training schools and platforms for airlines and hotels to sell their products.
He added, “We now have about four to five training schools in the region, and within two years, the first set of students will graduate. We are helping airlines sell tickets and hotels sell their rooms.”
Also speaking, Stephen Isokariari of Dial Travels, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of NANTA, called for more industry support.
Isokariari stated, “We must work together to grow the industry and contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
“With the right support and infrastructure, the Nigerian travel industry has the potential to contribute to the nation’s economy significantly.”
Stay informed with the latest updates on Nigeria’s travel scene by visiting the Nigeria Tourism News section on Rex Clarke Adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers
How many Nigerians travelled out of the country between 2023 and 2024?
Over 17 million Nigerians travelled out of the country between 2023 and 2024.
What is the Eastern Travel Market 2025?
The Eastern Travel Market 2025 is the maiden edition of an event organised by the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) to bring together travel professionals and showcase regional airlines, hospitality firms, and institutions.
When and where will the Eastern Travel Market 2025 take place?
The Eastern Travel Market 2025 will occur in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from August 27th to 30th, 2025.
What economic impact is projected for Nigeria’s tourism and travel sector?
The tourism and travel sector is projected to generate over $12 million for Nigeria’s economy by 2026, a significant increase from $4 million in 2024.
What initiatives is NANTA undertaking to support the travel industry?
NANTA supports the industry through initiatives like establishing regional training schools and creating platforms for airlines and hotels to sell their products.