Nigeria’s tourism sector saw recovery in 2025, with Lagos, Obudu Mountain Resort, Yankari Game Reserve, Olumo Rock, and major waterfalls leading visitor trends

Travel across Nigeria in 2025 reflected a year of gradual recovery and growth in the tourism sector.

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Domestic travel anchored most movement, while international visitors explored the country’s history, ecology, and urban vibrancy. Key drivers included accessibility, variety, and destinations offering multiple attractions.

Lagos Remains Nigeria’s Most Visited City
Lagos retained its position as the country’s top destination, attracting both domestic and international travellers. Its appeal lay in a network of experiences rather than a single attraction.

• Lekki Conservation Centre drew nature enthusiasts to its canopy walkway.
• Makoko Floating Community offered cultural and historical exploration.
• Badagry preserved heritage tourism linked to the transatlantic slave trade.
• Coastal leisure at Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi Beach remained popular.
• Food festivals, music concerts, fashion events, and social gatherings strengthened the city’s tourism profile.

For many, Lagos also served as a gateway to other regions in Nigeria.

Obudu Mountain Resort Maintains Its Appeal
Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State continued to attract visitors seeking cool climates and scenic landscapes. Highlights included:

•  The resort’s cable car, offering panoramic views.
•  Walking trails, natural viewpoints, and outdoor leisure activities.
•  Integrated accommodation and transport for convenient tourism.

Its climate and scenic appeal kept it on both domestic and international travel itineraries.

Yankari Game Reserve Anchors Wildlife Tourism
Bauchi State’s Yankari Game Reserve remained the top wildlife destination. Visitors engaged in:

•  Safari drives featuring elephants, lions, antelopes, and birds.
• Guided tours promoting conservation awareness.
•  Leisure at the Wikki Warm Springs after safari activities.

The reserve’s combination of wildlife, natural water features, and structured tours ensured its continued prominence.

Olumo Rock Strengthens Cultural Tourism
Ogun State’s Olumo Rock remained a key cultural and historical landmark. Features attracting visitors included:

•  Summit access via climbing or elevators with city views.
•  Guided storytelling highlighting historical significance.
•  Local markets, crafts, and cultural displays around the site.

Its accessibility and integration into broader cultural experiences kept it a staple on travel itineraries.

Waterfall Tourism Gains Momentum
Waterfall destinations saw rising interest in 2025, reflecting a shift toward nature-based tourism. Notable sites included:

• Erin Ijesha Waterfalls, with multiple levels and forested paths.
• Owu Waterfalls, attracting organised tours for its scale and scenery.
• Agbokim Waterfalls, combining dense forest and nearby attractions.

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Together, these waterfalls underscored the growing popularity of eco-tourism and adventure travel in Nigeria.