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tourism | Zikoko!
  • QUIZ: Do You Know Where These Nigerian Tourist Attractions Are Located?

    How well do you know your Nigerian tourist attractions? Let’s see:

  • Live Vicariously Through These 5 Nigerian Women Exploring Africa

    After exploring a bit of Kigali in this week’s #ZikokoWhatSheSaid, it was only right to see other African countries we need to have on our bucket list. We want you to live vicariously through these five Nigerian women as they share some of the African countries they’ve visited.

    1. “My first solo trip was to Tanzania”

    I spent 2021 saving for my first solo trip to Tanzania. It was my first time on a plane, so of course, I tried to play it cool, but  I couldn’t figure out the belt. Luckily, the cute lady beside me showed me how to buckle it in. A few minutes after takeoff, I slept off until we landed in Tanzania. I had paid to spend the week at a resort before heading to Zanzibar the next week. Tanzania was beautiful. There were trees, vast lands of green and hills. The most exhilarating moment was the hike up Kilimanjaro — I almost peed my pants as we got higher up. To be fair, I was slightly drunk on that hike. The next day, I took a ride on a hot air balloon and it’s the most freeing thing to experience. Looking down at the lush greenery and slowly floating into the clouds made me feel like I was finally living life. And oh,  the food. Everyone needs to try Urojo soup.

    2. “ There’s nothing as elite as a VIP lounge”

    In 2014, I went on a school trip with a friend to Ethiopia. It was a conference, and we were expected to deliver a speech on youth empowerment. I had been on international trips before, but it was the first time my destination would be in an African country. The best part was that I didn’t have to travel with a teacher. Well, at least I thought that was the best part until we connected with a minister and his special advisor on the flight. They ok it upon themselves to be responsible for us since we didn’t have a guardian tagging along. There were other complications with our accommodation for the trips, so they paid for our meals and hotel bookings. We arrived in Ethiopia in the middle of the night and it looked so beautiful flying in. We went into the VIP lounge and waited for the car to get us. I felt so elite. There were top guys in politics and we got to mingle for a bit.

    Surprisingly, Ethiopia was quite chilly. I didn’t expect that. Other parts of the trip kind of went by quickly. The food looked great, but I was keen on sticking to familiar things like rice and meat — I’m not adventurous with food. I did try a dish called injera and it wasn’t for me. It felt like moist bread with meat. So yeah, not for me. Another thing, the women in Ethiopia are gorgeous. I’d love to go there again.

    3. “Waakye and shito is everything”

    I was in Ghana for a week in 2019. First off, there are traffic jams in Accra o. Yes, the type you sleep and wake up in. But I loved Jamestown and its colonial buildings and taking a tour at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. The night scene was amazing as well — drinking, eating waakye and shito. Trust me, when Runtown said, “Hope your love go sweet pass shito,” he knew what he was talking about. Shito bangs with everything. I filled a bag with it when I was leaving. 

    4. “Drunk nights in Morocco were the best”

    In 2018, I was on a trip with my girlfriends to Morocco. One of them was getting married and we wanted one last trip as single pringles together. We were all in our thirties and every night was insane. The beaches are incredible — the water is as blue as what you see on TV. And the coconut cocktails were everything. I’d kill to have those drunk nights on the beach again. Let’s not forget the food. Brocadillos and macaroons were my favourite things to eat. I can’t lie, Morocco is expensive to enjoy, but I need to go there again. I need another drunk night on the beach, dancing in a bikini.

    5. “ I loved yovo doko”

    I was in SS2 and went on an excursion to Benin republic. I lived in Benin state and the school bus drove the class to Lagos. Our bus driver got lost on the way. I remember eventually getting to Marina and then Badagry. We spent three nights at Whispering Palms in Badagry before continuing our journey to Benin. The first thing I noticed from the border was how clean Benin Republic looked. CFA franc looked really cool, and the spending coins felt like I was spending UK money. I went to Dantokpa market in Cotonou and wanted to get some souvenirs. I felt I could have haggled the seller for a cheaper price — the Benin babe in me is still screaming. The rest of the trip was a lot of food. They were hard to pronounce but I remember trying  yovo doko and it tasted like puff puff. Then there was amiwo with the mojo sauce and fried chicken.

  • Top 7 Tourist Attractions in Nigeria You Have to Visit

    Before you empty your account to go on a holiday to America so you can visit Disney Land and spend hours waiting in line to go on some ride that the disgruntled ghost of an Emerald City extra in “The Wizard of Oz” is rumoured to haunt, check out this these 7 Nigerian tourist spots. They’re pretty enough for Instagram pictures and you don’t even have to bankrupt yourself to visit them.

    1. Olumo Rock

    Olumo Rock Tourist Attractions In Nigeria

    If you haven’t visited Olumo Rock, have you even started doing tourism in Nigeria? Located in Abeokuta, Ogun State’s capital, the 137-meter mountain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria. According to legend, the rock and its caves served as a fortress for the Egba people during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century.

    The guardians of the mountain try to preserve its culture — you’ll see people dressed in white, worshipping the old gods in shrines and other people who still live there, as the tour guide takes you around and tells you stories. At the top of the mountain, the picturesque view of Abeokuta will leave you with enough cool pictures to tension the gram with.

    2. Yankari Game Reserve

    Yankari Game Reserve

    If you’re looking for a reason to visit northern Nigeria, visiting Yankari Game Reserve should be good enough. The reserve houses a huge collection of wildlife in their natural habitat — lions, elephants, antelopes, baboons, hippos, and different species of birds.

    Visit this place and pretend to act out the plot of “The Jungle Book.” Mowgli no do pass you.

    3. Obudu Mountain Resort

    Obudu Mountain Resort

    You probably know Obudu Mountain Resort as Obudu Cattle Ranch. It’s located in Cross River and it’s one of the most scenic and peaceful places you can visit in Nigeria. You can go hiking, see sights, take amazing pictures, and disconnect from the rest of the world here.

    4. Awhum Waterfalls

    Awhum Waterfalls, Enugu

    If you’re scared of the extraordinary, Awhum Waterfalls is not for you. Located in Enugu, the 30-metre highwaterfall made out of granite rock is said to have spiritual forces of healing and dispelling satanic forces. So if you go there with bad vibes, you’re going to burst into flames and die.

    Just kidding.

    5. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove

    Osun Osogbo Grove Tourist Attractions In Nigeria

    The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO recognised World Heritage Site. Every year, the Osun-Osgogbo festival is celebrated in the month of August at the grove. If you want to experience ancient Yoruba culture, visit the grove.

    6. Lekki Conservation Centre.

    Lekki Conservation Centre

    If you’ve never been to LCC, you’re dulling oh! Vegetation, an impressive range of animal species, games, and a brilliantly engineered 401-meter canopy walk – the longest in Africa – are waiting for you in Lekki’s heavily toured conservation centre. If you love nature and don’t mind running into everybody you’ve ever known, LCC is an amazing place for you to visit.

    7. Badagry Heritage Museum.

    Tourist attractions in Nigeria Badagry heritage museum

    There’s no better place to learn about the history of slavery in Nigeria than the Badagry heritage museum. The rich pieces of history and the stories you’ll hear and see here will amaze you. Every Nigerian should go to Badagry Heritage Museum.


    QUIZ: How Many Nigerian States Can You Name In 2 Minutes?

    If you’re interested in tourist attractions in Nigeria, you might be interested in this quiz.

  • 5 Cool Reasons Why You Should Hangout At Iba Ajie

    Feel like you’ve run out of interesting places to hangout or visit? We’ve got you. Iba Ajie is a new spot we highly recommend if you are looking to explore places in the Eastern part of Nigeria.

    If you’re wondering what makes this spot special, here are 5 reasons.

    1. There is a Chophouse

    Yes, exactly how it sounds. You can chop all the delicious local and international meals you want here.

    2. There is a museum

    The museum holds over 200 pieces of Nigerian antiquities; masquerades, igbo ukwu pieces, benin and ife bronzes, drums, panels and carvings collected over a period of 50 years. Definitely worth feasting your eyes on.

    3. Games galore

    You’ll have access to full eSports centre offering global and local gaming leagues on the premises. Perfect way to unwind.

    4. Arts & Creativity

    Art exhibitions and digital skills training are periodically hosted. Satisfy your soul’s artsy cravings.

    5. Best of both worlds

    Ever felt like you wanted to have the best of both worlds – modern and traditional – while preserving important aspects of your culture? Iba Ajie Centre is definitely the place for you.

    Iba Ajie is a community and resource center which houses a museum, a restaurant that sits 29 inside, co-working spaces, a research library with 2000 reference books, a coding and digital academy with 35 workstations as well as 62 gaming consoles for eSports and gaming competitions. We also have a training room and performance spaces indoor and outside.

    Find out more here.

  • Dubai And Emirates Extend Even Warmer Welcome To Visitors As The City Prepares To Ring In 2021

    Press Release

    • A raft of events, festivals, and seasonal celebrations are planned to allow holidaymakers to ring in the New Year safely and enjoy the best of the destination in 2021 in style  
    • Greater booking flexibility, automatic multi-risk travel insurance coverage with every flight, a waiver of change fees on Emirates tickets and a one month visa extension enable visitors to extend their trip to Dubai 
    • Visitors from across the globe continue to enjoy Dubai’s leading attractions, facilities, and amenities in a safe and protected environment with stringent health and safety protocols

    Almost six months on from reopening its borders to international visitors on 7th July 2020, Dubai has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its residents and holidaymakers, whilst preparing to ring in 2021 in style.  

    Dubai continues to take effective steps under the guidance of the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai to build on the strategic initiative to reopen the city to tourists and facilitate travel while maintaining stringent health and safety protocols. With the New Year approaching, Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) and Emirates have partnered to offer all those who have already travelled to Dubai the opportunity to extend their trip until 31st January 2021 with fees for date changes waived on flights when issued in the same travel class. Emirates is also offering a host of special fares for international travellers for bookings made by 3rd January 2021 and automatic multi-risk travel insurance coverage with every flight including cover for COVID-19 medical and in-trip quarantine costs extended for flights until 31st January 2021. In addition, tourist visas for all nationalities will be extended for one month free of charge. Now is the time for holidaymakers to make the most of their trip and experience even more of Dubai.  

    RING IN 2021 IN STYLE 

    When it comes to New Year’s countdowns, Dubai never falls short of expectations. Burj Khalifa’s breathtaking fireworks and light & laser show will be synchronized to The Dubai Fountain Show, and promises to reflect a true celebration of Dubai. Performances by international artists such as KISS at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai as well as DJ sets promise something for everyone to enjoy.

    HEAD TO THE BEACH FOR WINTER SUN  

    With January temperatures hovering in the mid-20s, Dubai’s beaches are perfect for those seeking winter sun.  From untouched shorelines ideal for family escapes to active watersports hubs populated by windsurfers, kitesurfers and bodyboarders, Dubai has a beach for everyone.    

    SHOP TILL YOU DROP  

    Dubai Shopping Festival is now in its 26th year and is held until 30th January 2021. Malls and shopping destinations come alive with family fun and entertainment, live concerts, unique markets, art installations and stage shows. With super sales, unmissable promotions and chances to win life-changing prizes it is the perfect place for those that want to enjoy retail therapy and exciting events all set against a backdrop of stunning light and fireworks shows.  

    COMEDY, CULTURE AND FESTIVALS GALORE 

    From comedy events to retail therapy to sporting activities, Dubai offers an exciting calendar of events all held in line with the highest safety standards. During the first quarter of 2021, renowned comedian Jack Whitehall hits the stage at Dubai World Trade Centre on 13th and 14th January, whilst breakout artist Calum Scott performs hits from his debut album ‘Only Human’ at Dubai Opera on 20th January as part of Dubai Shopping Festival.  Art buffs, literary fans and culture connoisseurs are also well catered for with seasonal exhibitions at trendy Alserkal Avenue as well as Emirates Airline Festival of Literature commencing on 29th January 2021.

    STAY, PLAY AND WORK FROM DUBAI 

    If 2020 was the year of working from home, then 2021 will be the year of virtual working.  With Dubai having announced the new virtual working programme, now is the time to take the plunge and work from one of the world’s most connected cities.  Entrepreneurs and flexible workers can extend their holiday and experience great quality of life and have access to convenient facilities and resources to help them further their career or grow their business. 

    His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), said: “The remarkable vision and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai has been a huge inspiration to us, leading to the decisive and effective management of the pandemic. With 2021 on the horizon, we look forward to continuing to welcome first time and repeat visitors to Dubai, with stringent health protocols and precautionary measures firmly in place.  We are pleased to continue to work closely with our strategic partners Emirates, as well as our hospitality partners, allowing holidaymakers to experience the vibrant energy of Dubai and all our iconic attractions, fantastic culinary and shopping experiences, and exciting festivals and events with added reassurance and flexibility.”

    Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer said: “Emirates has worked closely with all Dubai stakeholders to gradually restore our network and signature services, with all bio-safety measures in place. Since Dubai re-opened for international visitors, we’ve been seeing an upward trend in enquiries and bookings which reflects the confidence that travellers have in Dubai and in Emirates.   Today, Emirates is flying to nearly 100 cities across the world, providing easy access to Dubai for international travellers and offering a world class travel experience. Together with our strategic partner Dubai Tourism, we’re extending that experience with even more attractive offers, and the assurance of travel flexibility and care. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to Dubai in 2021.”

    Alexander Lee, Jumeirah Group’s Chief Commercial Officer said: “The opening of Dubai in July 2020 to international visitors had an incredibly positive impact on Jumeirah’s bookings from a number of overseas markets, a trend that has continued ever since. We are attributing this to both the breadth of offer we have here in Dubai, particularly our 2km private beachfront with its extensive pool, dining and spa offering, but also the certified health and safety measures in place for guest peace of mind, including Dubai Tourism’s Dubai Assured programme. Six of our hotels in Dubai have furthermore received the prestigious Bureau Veritas Safeguard Label, which we believe has gone a long way in helping to restore confidence for international travelers. As we move into 2021, we are looking forward to welcoming more international guests to experience our renowned hospitality, in particular our culinary experiences, such as French Riviera, our French Mediterranean concept on the beach at Jumeirah Al Qasr, and most recently SAL, a chic new beach concept and striking Southern European dining destination on The Terrace at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.”

    Tim Kelly, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Atlantis Dubai said: “His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai’s directive to extend tourist visas for one additional month without any government fees, represents a clear reflection of Dubai government’s generous support to help tourists to spend a stress-free new year’s holiday in Dubai.”

    “At Atlantis, The Palm we are ending 2020 with a bang with the world’s largest ever live-streamed event by rock legends KISS, together with a record-breaking firework and pyrotechnic display – the likes of which have yet to be seen – while, of course, maintaining stringent health and safety protocols. In line with Emirates’ special January fares, and the events lined up by Dubai Tourism across the emirate, Atlantis is also unlocking a host of exclusive offers for guests staying five nights or more from 2nd January to 30th April 2021 with its January sale. These include an array of adventures for guests to start ticking off their bucketlists for 2021, with international guests also benefitting from complimentary in-resort PCR tests.” 

    Mark Willis, Chief Executive Officer, Accor India, Turkey, Middle East & Africa said: “It is clear that 2020 has been a year of challenges for the tourism and hospitality industry, however, as it comes to an end, it is very encouraging to see some positive business levels during the past few months, especially in the Dubai market. With a portfolio of more than 45 hotels in the city, brands ranging from economy, with Ibis and Novotel, to luxury with Raffles and Fairmont, Accor properties in Dubai have seen a positive trend from local tourism with an increase in demand for “staycations”, as well as a positive increase in stays from a number of regional and international visitors. The uptake in both of these markets has been mainly possible due to the vision, planning and quick implementation by the Dubai government, which quickly established Dubai on the map, even more than before, as a safe and secure destination for tourists to visit. 

    We are confident that with the ongoing safety precautions, which are being strictly implemented throughout our hotels and the city, alongside the large number of events and attractions that will be taking place in 2021, Dubai will continue to see positive signs in the market, which will also enable us to continue to open more hotels throughout the year, including the Rixos Dubai Hotel & Suites Jewel of the Creek in Deira and the SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences to name a few”.

    Going into 2021, Dubai will continue to strengthen its offering for leisure visitors with new attractions and hotels in the pipeline. In addition, Dubai will see the return of world-class events and festivals including Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Food Festival, and in October 2021, Dubai will play host to the first ever World Expo to be held in this region.   


    About Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism)

    With the ultimate vision of positioning Dubai as the world’s leading tourism destination and commercial hub, Dubai Tourism’s mission is to increase the awareness of Dubai among global audiences and to attract tourists and inward investment into the emirate. Dubai Tourism is the principal authority for the planning, supervision, development and marketing of Dubai’s tourism sector. It markets and promotes the Emirate’s commerce sector and is responsible for the licensing and classification of all tourism services, including hotels, tour operators and travel agents. Brands and departments within the Dubai Tourism portfolio include Dubai Business Events, Dubai Calendar, and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.


  • 4 Beautiful Places People From Osun Recommend You Visit

    Tucked deep in the south-west, you’ve probably passed through Osun state on your way to other places in Nigeria. You probably didn’t spare the state another glance. Apart from playing host to Obafemi Awolowo University, arguably the best federal university in Nigeria (haters will say it’s a lie), Osun state is also home to a number of world-class attractions. Here’s a couple of them.

    1. Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove

    In the early 20th Century, every town in Yorubaland had a sacred grove. Sadly, many of these groves have been abandoned. Osun-Osogbo was founded about 400 years ago in Osogbo, the state’s capital and hosts the largest and last remaining major sacred grove.

    In the sanctuary, there are numerous sculptures and artworks in honour of the goddess Osun and other Yoruba deities. It also hosts two palaces, five sacred places and nine worship points along the banks of the River Osun.

    2. Opa Oranmiyan (Oranmiyan’s staff)

    This site, whose name translates to Oranmiyan’s staff (no, not that kind, get your mind out of the gutter) is an obelisk situated in Ile-Ife, Osun State. The 5.5 metre high edifice is thin granite column and was said to have been constructed in the year 1300. It also has a pretty interesting origin story.

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    3. Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls

    It is said that the pristine waterfalls were discovered by a daughter of Ododuwa in 1140 AD (almost 1000 years ago). Other accounts claim it was discovered by hunters in the same year. Whichever account you believe, one thing is clear: Erin Ijesha is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Nigeria. A collection of cascades, this 7-part waterfall paints the most idyllic scene. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb all seven levels of the waterfall.

    4. Oduduwa Shrine and Grove

    Many people believe that the Oduduwa World Temple and Grove is the hsitroical site where Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race arrived in Ile-Ife. It’s also said to be where he’s buried. The site features a life-sized statue of Oduduwa, his legendary chain and staff and a map of Africa carved in stone.

    Read: 4 Artefacts That Were Stolen From Africa

    [donation]

  • 5 of The Best Things We Have Heard About Calabar

    Just tired of staying in the same place? Want to explore? We compile 5 of the best things we have heard about Calabar.

    1. Richness in Culture

    Calabar culture is one of the richest cultures in Nigeria, varying from food, to dances to festivals and carnivals. You should give the city a visit.

    2. The Land of Carnivals

    Unarguably, no city comes close to Calabar with regards to festivals. The Calabar carnival is a festival of sorts. Excuse the pun.

    3. Exquisite Cuisines And Flavours

    Tired of the same meal? Go to Calabar for the smoked fish peppersoup, over even the famous Edikang-Ikong soup.

    4. The Best Dances and Dancers

    Ever heard of the Ekombi dance? You need to go Calabar to find out.

    5. The Stunning Girls

    From the stories, you can a whole Bible about Calabar girls. But regardless, we love them. And if you love them too, visit them.

    For your next read, 7 of the best things we have heard about living in Jos.

  • The Zikoko Guide to Having A Great Time in Togo

    The most interesting thing about travelling is the prospect of soaking in new cultures and experiences new places, landmarks and people. Zikoko is here to help you with that. This short guide will help you find the best places to be if you ever find yourself in Togo

    The Grand Marche

    This is Lome’s melting point for all kinds of market experiences. It is the place you feel the familiar entrepreneurial pulse Africans are known for. It just might remind you of home.

    First things first: there are two portions of the market – the indoor and outdoor, so prepare your mind for a long day of navigation. The chaotic but strangely fun atmosphere of the market will give you all the goosebumps you need. There are a ton of stuff to buy too, just make sure you have the bag and the energy to carry them, because… well, there are other places to visit.

    The Lome Cathedral

    Your next stop should be the cathedral. It is actually surrounded by the market, so its towering frame should have caught your attention during your time in Grand Marche. Built in 1902, it is a relic of the country’s German colonial history. Yes, Togo used to be a German colony.

    The bright red and white colours of the exterior make for great aesthetics for the eyes to see, and the ambience of the interior, which is in sharp contrast to the bustle of the market is something the mind should experience – the calm after the storm.

    Monument de l’Independence

    This is a beautiful and striking representation of the end of the colonial rule in Togo and a new beginning for the country. Perfect for aesthetic purposes; it is something that should be sitting pretty in your phone’s gallery or your camera’s storage. 

    The National Museum

    Is a trip to a new country complete without visiting the National museum? The museum can be found inside the Palais de Congress with the 1960s architecture to admire. It is quite small, but it is the place to go if you would like a quick rundown of Togo’s history – both cultural and colonial. Just make sure you find a guide to interpret the significance of the artifacts.

    There is a payment attached before entry, and you can’t take pictures of the artifacts or anything you see inside the complex. This shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, though, don’t you think?

    The Beach, Yayy!

    Unless you have a crippling fear of large bodies of water and the waves, the beach should be on your to-do list. There are numbers of beaches in Lomé and finding them wouldn’t be difficult. Find a good one, especially one close to a restaurant or a hotel. But if you are all about adventure and living dangerously, any nice one will do. Just be safe.

    Cascade de Womé, Kpalime

    Ha! Waterfalls! They make for breathtaking views, don’t they? Well, there is one to literally soak in, in Kpalime. It has to be nature at its finest what with a cool ambience and the potential of taking a quick dip in the water. 

    Mount Agou

    In the spirit to do some hiking? Then you should make time for Mount Agou. It is the highest mountain in Togo at 980meters, which makes it relatively easy to get to the summit. The locals are friendly, so take time out to talk to them.

    Now you have your perfect holiday in Zikoko. No need to thank us, that’s why we’re here for you. And oh, by the way, we think you deserve something good, so this is a reminder of sorts: some cool people from Zikoko are on the journey of a lifetime. They’re travelling through 14 countries in West Africa, collecting stories as they go. You can follow them and catch up to what they are up to on Jollofroad.com. You can also catch up to what they are up to on the Zikoko socials.

  • With the yama-yama recession and ridiculous cost of living in the country, Nigerians are not smiling these days. But this Twitter user 4eyedmonk, blessed us with vibrant images, showing us reasons why Nigeria is incredibly beautiful.

    1. Basically why Nigerians have melanin-popping skin.

    1. Nigeria is the home of Dudu Osun, the famous black soap. It is the reason majority of Nigerian women have beautiful, clear skin. pic.twitter.com/BmWygFk2X5

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    2. You can totally get this for N100.

    2. Shea butter, that magical skin and hair care stuff you women love to much…yes, it is a dime a dozen in Nigeria….come take some home pic.twitter.com/1mt9hqmkNi

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    3. Can we talk about the abundance of coconut oil?

    3. Coconut Oil in its purest form is found in Nigeria. Nigerian ladies are beautiful and nature has all they need to stay that way here pic.twitter.com/p15AiuiYz5

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    4. The only Starboy we recognise and acknowledge.

    4. Music…yeah. ?? is the music capital of Africa. Wizkid is from here, and he is just one of hundreds of thousands. The groove is here?? pic.twitter.com/cbBlXk15Qp

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    5. Is your Nigerian experience even complete if you haven’t had ‘point and kill’?

    5. Grilled fish? Ah, you are in the right place. We call it point and kill. We always insist you wash it down with a chilled beer ? pic.twitter.com/gZAaLEh0iX

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    6. Nigerians don’t joke with their beer sha.

    6. Speaking of beer…you would love it here. After the Irish, we rock beer the mostest. Don’t take my word for it, just come here ? pic.twitter.com/pY9EdANGAU

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    7. And education too.

    7. Very educated folks. We have plenty here. People with Masters Degrees & Phd’s are not hard to come by here. Boko Haram hates us for this pic.twitter.com/fQBMobwIMB

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    8. The fine ass, yummy men we all love to hate.

    8. Yoruba Demons. Yea, they exist. Devilishly good looking men,dressed to kill, with an edge that will make any woman turn to butter?? pic.twitter.com/jbJDoCgneG

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    9. Nigerian women are lit too.

    9. Hot women! The Nigerian God never does things in half measures. So he filled the land with masterpieces to keep the guys in 8 occupied!?? pic.twitter.com/XICVhLs6P5

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    10. Anybody can fit in here.

    10. The Eccentric. Yeah, we got them like you got them too ? pic.twitter.com/Z3mGqTih55

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    11. The carnivals are fun-filled!

    11. Carnivals and Festivals. From East to West, North to South, Nigerians are happy people, and we express it in very colourful ways! pic.twitter.com/U9sdPavLNL

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    12. Nollywood is taking over the world, argue with your DVD.

    12. Movies. We own this in Africa. We are number 3 (or 2, depending on what you are drinking) in the world. You will never get bored! pic.twitter.com/dV6dt4moW6

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    13. Our very own Arsenal FC of disappointment that we love so very much, The Super Eagles.

    13. Super Eagles. You say Arsenal gives you migraine? Then try these ones. But we love them to death! pic.twitter.com/RZAUSr6wx2

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    14. There’s room for the religious people…

    14. You believe in God? Well, Nigeria to paradise is visa free… pic.twitter.com/oEcx2s91yG

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    15. And spiritual folks too.

    15. You don’t believe in God? Well, there is room for you too here in Naija…but where you are headed is above my pay grade? pic.twitter.com/5ui2ZF5TKL

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    16. Frank Donga is definitely a national treasure.

    16. Frank Donga. Yeah, we got Frank Donga. Dude has been looking for a job for about 10 years now. But yeah, he is part of all we got? pic.twitter.com/3wG5YTgk1W

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    17. The tourist sites in Naija are absolutely breathtaking.

    17. Nigeria is nature’s gift to mankind. We don’t suffer from natural disasters, we don’t know what earthquakes or typhoons feel like pic.twitter.com/BfSFyP3L45

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    18. Legendary literary giants lived here.

    18. African literature is so lit! We are some of the reasons it is so. We have got Soyinka, Achebe, Fagunwa, Ekwensi and many more! pic.twitter.com/ySJ8dchBqC

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    19. And more giants are already taking the world by storm.

    19. Literature in Nigeria had a very bright future too! Chimamanda, Othuke, Teju Cole, Arese and thousands!! pic.twitter.com/HkAv0w0zdh

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017

    20. Finally sha, one has to admit Nigeria is lit!

    20. So on your next holiday, do visit Nigeria. Come see for yourself. You will be left with an experience you will never ever forget! ???? pic.twitter.com/tlfwntzljK

    — HENRY Okelue (@4eyedmonk) February 20, 2017 Shoutout to 4eyedmonk for reminding us of the beauty of Nigeria.
  • If you’ve had to cancel your travel plans this year due to the high exchange rate, we present to you Ghana!

    1. Adomi Bridge

    Such a fine, peng bridge.

    2. Hillburi Resort

    This is the place to go for utmost relaxation.

    3. Busua Bridge

    We’ve heard so mang good things about this place.

    4. East Legon

    This place looks so peaceful.

    5. Still on East Legon

    Everywhere is just green anyhow!

    6. Villagio Apartments

    Somebody rent us a flat here, please.

    7. Holiday Inn, Accra

    Wait, is that swimming pool on the…?

    8. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

    The late DrKwame Nkrumah and his wife Fathia, are buried here. So cool!

    9. Kakum National Park

    If you don’t get to the canopy walkway, did you really visit Ghana?

    10. Cape Coast Castle

    Just look at the beautiful ruin!

    11. Nzulezu Village

    The cutest mini fishing village ever!
  • 14 Beautiful Pictures Of Northern Nigeria The Media Never Shows You
    Over the past decade, whenever a news story on Northern Nigeria is released, it almost always features  images of Boko Haram’s destruction or images highlighting poverty and extremity. But there is so much beauty that the media just doesn’t show us and these images captured by  Editi Effiòng prove that Northern Nigeria just might be the most underrated tourist location for travel lovers. Check out some of Editi’s shots below.

    The absolute beauty of Gubi Lake in Bauchi.

    This perfect picture of the game trail at Yankari National Park that captured butterflies basking in the sunlight.

    This picture taken underwater at the Wikki warm spring that shows it’s possible for Nigerian waters to be clean, clear and blue.

    This serene shot of Wikki warm spring.

    Blue sky and blue water at Gubi lake in Bauchi.

    This image that beautifully captured the vegetation and mountains at Dass, Bauchi.

    The picturesque landscape at Fufore, Adamawa.

    The heart-stopping sunset in Bauchi.

    The architecture of the 2nd Babban Gwani in history, built in 1869 for the Emir of Bauchi.

    More stunning shots of Gubi Lake.

    This breathtaking view.

    This image that captures the true definition of untamed wild beauty.

    The sky at Dass in Bauchi after a night of rainfall.

    So, thinking of planning a holiday? Maybe Northern Nigeria isn’t such a bad idea.

    All images by Editi Effiòng.