Nigeria’s tourism landscape is experiencing unprecedented transformation in 2025. From world-class water parks to UNESCO World Heritage recognitions, here’s your complete guide to the latest developments shaping Nigeria’s tourism future.
Breaking: Kano Durbar Festival Inscribed on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List (April 15, 2025) – marking Nigeria’s first intangible heritage recognition.
New Opening: Park Vega Water Park, now West Africa’s largest water facility, officially opens with international IAAPA and WWA certification.
Infrastructure Boost: $3 billion Eastern Rail Corridor revitalisation approved, connecting Port Harcourt to Maiduguri for enhanced tourism access.
The largest water park in West Africa. A member of IAAPA (International Association of Amusements & Attractions) and WWA (World Waterparks Association), Park Vega is now officially the first international standard water park in the region.
Lekki Conservation Centre covers an area of about 78 hectares and reportedly has the longest canopy walkway in Africa, with new guided programs launched in 2024.
Since its establishment in 2009, Nike Art Gallery has more than 20,000 artworks from different Nigerian artists. The gallery continues to expand with new exhibitions and maintains free entry for all visitors.
Historic Achievement: Kano Durbar Festival
Kano Durbar Festival was Inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List on April 15, 2025. This traditional festival joins Nigeria’s growing list of internationally recognised cultural treasures.
Nigeria has 14 sites on its UNESCO tentative list, including:
$2 billion Lagos Green Light Rail project receives additional funding boost, positioning Lagos for cleaner, faster urban mobility under LAMATA management.
$3 billion allocation approved for the 2,044km Eastern rail corridor revitalisation, stretching from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri – critical for unlocking tourism across Southeast, North Central, and Northeast zones.
$700 million coastal highway project will create new tourism opportunities linking Southwest to South South Nigeria.
The World Bank approves $500 million for rural road improvements, enhancing access to remote cultural sites and natural attractions.
The Big 5 hotel chains – Marriott, Hilton, Accor, Radisson, IHG – collectively account for the bulk of new hotel developments across Nigeria.
While Lagos and Abuja dominate, secondary cities such as Ibadan, Enugu, Calabar, and Jos are emerging as tourism hotspots.
The new Lagos airport terminal (opened in 2022) and ongoing infrastructure improvements create a more conducive environment for hotel investment.
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President Bola Tinubu appointed Abisoye Fagade as NIHOTOUR’s Director-General in November 2024, stepping up hospitality industry enforcement and standards.
Nigeria expanded visa-free entry to 17 African countries (ECOWAS and others) in 2024 to boost regional travel, complementing existing Visa-on-Arrival systems.
National Tourism Development Corporation launches comprehensive strategy focusing on:
$942.8 million African Development Bank funding secured for energy projects, aiming to provide electricity to 5 million people by 2026, directly benefiting tourism facilities.
Nigerian construction industry is expected to grow 3.1% annually from 2026-2029, supporting tourism infrastructure development.
Major industrial projects like the $16.6 billion Ogidigben Gas Revolution Industrial Park will create significant business tourism opportunities.
Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos):
2024 saw an exhilarating surge in domestic tourism as Nigerians rediscovered local experiences amid rising international travel costs.
73% of Nigerian travellers now plan to integrate business and leisure travel, creating new market opportunities.
Rising health consciousness drives demand for wellness-focused vacation packages and spa retreats.
UNESCO recognitions boost international interest in Nigeria’s cultural attractions and traditional festivals.
Nigeria’s tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. From new world-class attractions to improved infrastructure and international recognition, there has never been a better time to explore Nigeria.
