People often look far away for adventure, overlooking the beauty within their own borders. But that’s changing—thanks to a new wave of Nigerian travel influencers who are reshaping how we see tourism in Nigeria.
These influencers aren’t following the typical travel script. Instead, they spotlight destinations that are nearby yet feel brand new. More than just sharing stunning photos, they tell real, relatable stories from every corner of the country.
With each post, Nigerian travel influencers are proving that local tourism is not only possible—it’s vibrant, authentic, and worth exploring.
The Role of Travel Influencers in Local Tourism
Nigerian travel influencers are changing people’s thoughts about local tourism and promoting secret destinations that are unexplored in the country. Here are some of the roles they play in local tourism:
- Showcasing Hidden Places
They visit towns, parks, and sites that many people have never heard of, bringing attention to parts of Nigeria that deserve more visits.
- Making Travel Feel Possible
Sharing simple, real-life trips shows that you don’t need a lot of money to travel. Their posts break the idea that travel is only for the rich.
- Telling Local Stories
They share stories from the people they meet, not just the places. This adds meaning to each trip and helps others feel connected.
- Supporting Small Businesses
They help promote local services, from local hotels to food spots, and their posts often attract new customers.
- Changing How Nigerians See Nigeria
They make people proud of their country by showing its beauty and variety. This new pride can lead to more interest in local travel and even urban tourism in Nigeria.
Top Nigerian Travel Influencers Redefining Local Tourism
Travelling can be enjoyable and full of fun memories. These influencers are telling a story of Nigeria’s rich industry. Here are 10 popular travel influencers:
1. Tayo Aina
Living in Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria, Tayo Aina is of Yoruba descent from Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State and one of the top Nigerian travel influencers.
He is a Nigerian filmmaker, YouTuber, and photographer known for his travel and documentary-style content that explores African culture, business, and lifestyle. He started his career as an Uber driver in Lagos before transitioning to full-time content creation in 2019.
Aina’s YouTube channel has amassed over one million subscribers, and he has collaborated with notable artists, including Adekunle Gold and Davido. His storytelling approach has led to collaborations with various brands and organisations.
2. Steven Ndukwu
Steven Ndukwu is a Nigerian filmmaker from Imo State. He is a media entrepreneur known for his travel documentaries and short films that highlight Africa’s beauty, tourist destinations, culture, and environment.
Ndukwu is one of the best Nigerian travel influencers whose content focuses on projecting Africa’s beauty and culture in a positive light. He has been featured in various media outlets and collaborated with organisations and brands to promote African tourism.
3. Pelu Awofeso
Pelu Awofeso is a Nigerian journalist, travel writer, and tour guide known for his extensive travel writings and documentaries that showcase Nigeria’s diverse cultures and landscapes.
Awofeso is one of the top Nigerian travel influencers. He has visited over 32 states in Nigeria and written extensively about his travels. He is also the publisher of an online travel magazine called Waka About and the editor of Route 234, a book of travel stories.
4. Amarachi Ekekwe
Amarachi Ekekwe, also known as Ms. Amarachi, is a Nigerian travel influencer and entrepreneur who is passionate about exploring and showcasing the beauty of Africa.
She runs a travel blog called “Travel with a Pen,” which encourages people to travel locally and internationally on a budget.
Ekekwe’s blog and social media platforms provide travel tips, destination guides, and personal experiences that inspire others to explore Nigeria and beyond.
She has also shared detailed tours of various destinations, including Morocco and Nigeria’s hidden gems.
5. Nikeh
Nikeh is a Nigerian travel content creator who has explored every state in the country. She shares her experiences to inspire others to travel within the country.
Nikeh’s content promotes local tourism by showcasing Nigeria’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions. She has been featured on the BBC for her work and is one of the top Nigerian travel influencers.
6. Eromonsele Oigiagbe (Ericotrips)
Eromonsele Oigiagbe, or Ericotrips, is an award-winning travel blogger and content creator based in Lagos. He shares stories of his travels within Nigeria, aiming to highlight the country’s diverse attractions and encourage domestic tourism.
Oigiagbe’s blog and social media platforms provide insights into Nigeria’s cultural heritage, art, and tourism sites. His work promotes local tourism and encourages Nigerians to explore their own country.
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7. Fisayo Olayinka-Bello
Fisayo Olayinka-Bello is an award-winning travel blogger, tourism development advocate, and founder of TheFisayo.com. She focuses on changing the African narrative by promoting travel within Nigeria and the continent.
Olayinka-Bello’s platform provides insights for travel guides, destination reviews, and tourism development. She is one of the best Nigerian travel influencers and offers courses and resources for aspiring travel bloggers and tourism professionals.
8. Dayo Adedayo
Dayo Adedayo is an independent documentary photographer and cultural anthropologist renowned for his in-depth visual storytelling that elevates Nigeria’s presence on the global stage.
Adedayo’s work captures the essence of Nigeria’s culture and heritage through photography. His images have been featured in various exhibitions and publications, promoting Nigerian tourism and culture.
9. Chiamaka Obuekwe
Chiamaka Obuekwe is the co-founder and CEO of Social Prefect Tours. This African tourism company connects people across the continent through tour guides, school excursions, group tours, and corporate retreats.
Obuekwe is a Nigerian travel influencer who has been instrumental in promoting tourism within Nigeria and Africa, especially among millennials. Her company has organised various tours and events to showcase the beauty and culture of African destinations.
Challenges Nigerian Travel Influencers Face
Nigerian travel influencers face many challenges as they promote local tourism. One big problem is poor roads and bad transport, which make visiting some places difficult.
Sometimes, basic things like clean hotels and good internet are missing. Another challenge is low funding. Many influencers struggle to get money or sponsorships to support their trips and create content.
Also, safety concerns in some areas keep people from travelling or sharing honest stories. Even with these problems, Nigerian travel influencers continue to work hard to show the beauty of their country.
Future of Local Tourism in Nigeria
The future of local tourism in Nigeria looks bright. More Nigerians are seeing the value of travelling within their own country. Nigerian travel influencers play a significant role in this change by sharing real stories and hidden gems.
With the government and private businesses investing in roads, hotels, and attractions, travelling in Nigeria will become easier and more fun. Young people, especially, are excited to explore their culture and history.
If these good changes continue, Nigeria can become one of Africa’s top tourist spots.
Explore more insights on Nigeria’s influencer scene, trends, and digital lifestyle on our Influencer Culture page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are Nigerian Travel Influencers?
They are people who use social media and other platforms to share their trips and promote tourism in Nigeria.
2. Why is Local Tourism Important in Nigeria?
It helps grow the economy, creates jobs, and lets people appreciate their culture and natural beauty.
3. What Challenges Do Nigerian Travel Influencers Face?
They deal with bad roads, safety worries, low funding, and sometimes a lack of support.
4. Can Nigerian Travel Influencers Inspire People to Travel More Locally?
By sharing honest and fun travel stories, they encourage more Nigerians to explore their country.
5. How Can Local Tourism Improve in Nigeria?
Better infrastructure, more safety, and support from the government and businesses can help.
In conclusion, Nigerian travel influencers are changing how people see local tourism. They show that Nigeria has many beautiful places worth visiting.
Even though they face challenges, their passion keeps them going. The future of local tourism looks strong, and if more people join in, Nigeria can become a top spot for tourists, both from home and abroad.
