NATOP x Benin: West African Tourism Partnership 

The Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) has joined forces with tourism stakeholders in the Republic of Benin to foster cross-border collaboration and boost intra-African tourism. This timely partnership marks a bold move to spotlight the cultural richness and breathtaking landscapes of West Africa—offering African travelers more meaningful experiences without needing to travel abroad.

As part of the initiative, NATOP members embarked on a two-day immersive tour across Benin. Organized in collaboration with the Consortium Tourism by Millions of Benin (CTMB), Azalai Hotel, and Benin Royal Hotel, the tour was designed to help tour operators gain firsthand knowledge of local destinations. This hands-on experience will enable them to create tailored packages for both African travelers and international visitors eager to explore the region.

NATOP x Benin

According to NATOP President, Alhaja Bolaji Mustapha, “The essence of familiarization trips is to truly know the product you’re selling—not just over the phone. You need to experience what you want to offer others.”

From cultural monuments like the La Porte Du Non Retour (Gate of No Return) in Ouidah to the vibrant Amazon Square, Family Beach, the Venice of Africa—a floating village—Sacred Forest, Python Cave, and Casa Dee Papa Resort, the tour provided an enriching experience rooted in history, heritage, and the natural splendor of Benin.

Mr. Dine Bouraima, President of CTMB and CEO of Benin Royal Hotel, emphasized the strategic benefits of cross-border tourism. “Benin needs Nigeria. We want to work together. If it’s good for Nigeria and good for Benin, why spend your money outside Africa?”

Dr. Olanma Ojukwu, Co-founder of God’s Own Travel Agency and coordinator of the tour, described the initiative as a long-overdue step toward positioning West Africa as a unified tourism destination. “In East Africa, you get one visa and access to multiple countries. We can achieve the same in West Africa—this is the network we’ve been craving.”

Tourism expert and government consultant Mrs. Cléopatre Kougniazzonde of TOURA Benin added historical context to the experience and applauded the effort for paving the way for long-term collaboration.

This partnership is a significant milestone for regional unity and African excellence. As travel and tourism across the continent evolve, NATOP and Benin’s joint initiative serves as a model for how African countries can work together to tell their own stories, celebrate their own heritage, and elevate tourism across borders.

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