The organizers of the Akwaaba African Travel Market have expressed their appreciation to the Federal Government for addressing the visa issues faced by foreign delegates.
Mr. Ikechi Uko, Founding Partner at Ikechi Uko & Co, highlighted that his concerns about visa difficulties were swiftly addressed after he raised them via WhatsApp. Uko had pointed out the high cost of the online visa on arrival and difficulties in obtaining visas from Nigerian embassies in East Africa, which forced delegates to use the costly online option.
Following his complaint, the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, along with the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap, took prompt action to resolve the issues. Uko noted that the new measures would benefit all African visitors to Nigeria, not just those attending his event.
Uko emphasized the importance of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) over leisure travel, stating that Nigeria stands to gain more by supporting MICE.
He also acknowledged that while the Akwaaba African Travel Market, the largest travel expo in West Africa, has not previously received significant government support for access, venue, and hosted buyers programs, this intervention is a welcomed first step. The government is reviewing its visa processes, with new measures expected to be announced soon.
The 20th edition of the Akwaaba African Travel Market will take place from September 22 to 24 at Eko Hotels Convention Centre, with representation from nearly 20 countries.