Wakanow, an African travel technology company, says Nigerian travellers are increasingly opting for destinations in Europe, Africa, and Asia over the United States as the festive season approaches.
The company’s Senior Vice-President, Worldwide Operations, Shola Ipinmoroti, disclosed this on Tuesday at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market (AFTM) in Lagos.
According to Ipinmoroti, affordability and accessibility are shaping travel choices as demand for year-end trips, including the popular ‘Detty December’ festivities, continues to rise.
“The U.S. is overrated for Nigerian travellers. People are finding greater value in destinations that are more accessible and cost-effective,” she said.
She explained that Wakanow, which operates in 30 countries, is also expanding across Africa and Diaspora markets, including Canada, the U.K., and Mexico.
In addition, the company is deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as chatbots to improve customer support and booking services. It is also training women and girls in travel entrepreneurship by equipping them with skills, mentorship, and start-up incentives.
“We teach people the business of travel and help them scale it into a sustainable income,” Ipinmoroti added.
The AFTM, which opened with exhibitions, has featured a culinary competition tagged the ‘Jollof Rice War,’ a B2B session, cultural dance presentations from the Calabar Carnival Festival and Ekpe masqueraders, raffle draws, and panel discussions.
