Over 17 million Nigerians travelled out of the country in 2023, NANTA says, as it plans to host the first Eastern Travel Market in Uyo this August.
The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) says over 17 million Nigerians travelled abroad between 2023 and 2024.
Vice Chairman of NANTA, Eastern Zone, Hope Ehiogie, disclosed this during a news briefing in Port Harcourt, while announcing the maiden Eastern Travel Market 2025 scheduled to hold in Uyo from August 27 to 30.
Ehiogie said the event would gather over 1,000 travel professionals to boost visibility for airlines, hotels, hospitals, and institutions in the South-South and South-East.
“Nigerian travel industry has seen significant growth, with 17 million people traveling out of the country in 2023,” he said.
He projected that tourism and travel could generate over $12 million for Nigeria’s economy by 2026, up from $4 million in 2024.
“We now have about four to five training schools in the region,” Ehiogie added.
Stephen Isokariari, a former NANTA trustee, urged collaboration. “With the right support and infrastructure, the Nigerian travel industry has the potential to make a significant contribution to the nation’s economy.”