Nigeria: A Tourist Delight!

 

Nigeria is located in West Africa, and amidst the political and economic turbulence the nation has had to go through in the past and in recent times, the tourist and aesthetic nature of the country can still be appreciated. I for one, do not applaud the current economic, social and environmental climate of my country which has come about from decades of corruption, avarice, and economic and social greed; yet when I look in depth at the natural resources which God has blessed us with, I can say with gusto that I am still proud to be called a Nigerian!

As a trained Geographer and an advocate for the environment, Nigeria is a geographic phenomenon in spatial analysis and is one of such countries blessed with overly abundant and tremendous natural resources which if properly harnessed, can and will lift the current conditions of her inhabitants to a different status entirely. Steeped in vibrant and diverse rich cultures across various regions of the country, there are a lot of natural tourist sites and attractions which can totally immerse and occupy you once you decide to visit the country for business or for vacation.

One of such places is Enugu State located in the South East region of Nigeria. The first time I visited Enugu, was in July, 2000 for my one year compulsory service to the country after my university education. When I got there, I was first of all, mesmerized by the aesthetic nature  and scenery of the place. Also, it was during my one month stay at the camp , that I saw live fresh water gushing out of a rock! That’s pretty much like the account given in the Bible with Moses and the Israelites. Then, when I was posted to my job station, the school where I was to teach was directly situated opposite two beautiful mountains called the ‘Udi Hills’ which I had seen in my Geography text in high school. In fact,  it was so fascinating to think  I was actually experiencing in reality what had seemingly been a story or so it felt like it at the time. 

Nigeria is a land flowing with ‘milk and honey’, if you will excuse my cliche. Sure it is!  There are several places of interest which will definitely catch your fancy if you decide to spend your next vacation here. Despite the Covid-19 restrictions, the country is still doing ok and rebounding from the lockdown measures. However, this hasn’t diminished the country’s potential to offer excellent tourism for those who want a change of scenery and a chance to explore other cultures. 

Places of interest include: Obudu Cattle Ranch near  Calabar in Cross River State; Ikogosi Warm Springs in Ekiti State; Yankari Game Reserves in Bauchi State; Aso and Zuma  Rocks in Abuja, the nation’s capital; Udi Hills and Agwu Mountains in Enugu State as I had previously mentioned, then, there’s  the Jos Plateau Hills in Jos.  

So, if you think you can risk an adventure and visit Nigeria, it  will, I can assure  you be a worthwhile one!

For more information about Nigeria, you can log on to: www. nigeria.com.