While browsing the travel section of a bookstore, I noticed a glaring gap – there were few resources about Nigeria, and those available were predominantly authored by non-Africans.
This realization underscored the importance of Africans taking control of our own narratives and not allowing outsiders to define our stories. It was from this realization that the idea for the “Lagos Travel Guide” was born says Funke Ogunkoya-Futi, also known as Sassy Funke, a digital Travel Curator. In an interview conducted by Patrick Wisdom, the Project Officer for ATQNews.
The knowledge you have towards sharing travel-related information, updates, and posts is quite outstanding also with the fact that you have won so many awards and are very popular among travel and tourism enthusiasts all over the world, with over 370k followers.
How did it feel to receive the Africa Travel 100 Women award in 2022 and the African Travel Under 40 Awards in 2023, and how has this recognition impacted your career?
Receiving both the Africa Travel 100 Women award and the African Travel Under 40 Awards were truly humbling experiences. They validated the dedication and passion I’ve poured into my work in the travel industry. This recognition has not only boosted my confidence but has also opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations. It has allowed me to amplify my voice and influence within the industry, enabling me to make a broader impact on tourism and travel in Africa.
Can you discuss a particularly memorable experience or encounter that motivated you to write the “Lagos Travel Guide” and “The Lagos Airport Handbook”?
One pivotal experience that inspired me to create the “Lagos Travel Guide” occurred during a trip to Cambridge, Massachusetts. While browsing the travel section of a bookstore, I noticed a glaring gap – there were few resources about Nigeria, and those available were predominantly authored by non-Africans. This realization underscored the importance of Africans taking control of our own narratives and not allowing outsiders to define our stories. It was from this realization that the idea for the “Lagos Travel Guide” was born.
As for “The Lagos Airport Handbook,” its inception came amidst the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Observing firsthand the struggles faced by travelers navigating through Nigeria, particularly Lagos, I recognized an opportunity to provide practical assistance. I aimed to equip both locals and visitors with essential insights and guidance to streamline their travel experiences. By addressing common pain points and offering actionable advice, I sought to empower travelers and facilitate smoother journeys through Lagos.
READ: Tourism: Akwaaba, ATQnews announces Top 30 Winners of Africa Travel 100 Women Award
How do you see your achievement as a social media influencer winning a mainstream media award like Travel Communicator reflecting shifts in media dynamics?
Winning the Travel Communicator award as a social media influencer signifies a significant shift in media dynamics. It highlights the increasing influence and relevance of digital platforms in shaping travel narratives and consumer behavior. As a social media influencer, I’ve leveraged digital channels to create authentic and engaging content that resonates with audiences worldwide. This recognition underscores the power of social media in driving meaningful conversations and shaping perceptions within the travel industry.
How does being recognized as one of the top 100 tourism personalities in Nigeria impact your approach to promoting tourism and cultural exchange in the country?
Being recognized as one of the top 100 tourism personalities in Nigeria is both an honor and a responsibility. It motivates me to continue advocating for sustainable tourism practices and promoting cultural exchange initiatives that celebrate Nigeria’s rich heritage. This recognition amplifies my voice and influence, allowing me to engage with key stakeholders and implement innovative strategies to attract visitors and showcase the diverse offerings of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
What inspires the role of platforms like “TravelToNaija” in fostering tourism development in Nigeria, particularly in terms of promoting cultural exchange and local economies?
Platforms such as “TravelToNaija” are instrumental in nurturing tourism development by championing cultural exchange and bolstering local economies. Acting as a vital link, it connects Nigerians in the diaspora with their homeland. Our core mission is to illuminate and celebrate the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s beauty and diversity, all while fostering sustainable tourism practices that empower local communities. Through spotlighting authentic experiences and bolstering locally-owned enterprises, we actively contribute to economic prosperity and the preservation of cultural heritage. Moreover, our platform serves as a conduit, facilitating meaningful interactions between travelers and local communities, thereby fostering mutual understanding and forging lasting connections.
What initiatives or projects are you currently working on to further empower Nigerian travelers and contribute to the travel industry in Africa?
Presently, my primary focus is on a diverse array of initiatives geared towards enhancing the travel experiences of Nigerian travelers and advancing the broader travel industry throughout Africa. This includes the development of educational materials tailored to bolster travel literacy. Additionally, I am in the process of creating a travel and business podcast, which aims to facilitate dialogue among key stakeholders within the industry, fostering opportunities for education and collaboration.
In your view, what are some key initiatives or strategies that Nigeria can implement to enhance its tourism industry and attract more international visitors?
Nigeria possesses considerable potential for elevating its tourism industry and enticing a greater number of international visitors through a series of strategic measures. These include substantial investments in infrastructure development, encompassing enhancements to transportation networks and security protocols, thereby enhancing the overall travel experience. Furthermore, targeted marketing campaigns that spotlight Nigeria’s distinct attractions and cultural heritage are essential for augmenting visibility and attracting a diverse spectrum of visitors. Active participation in global travel markets serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing Nigeria’s beauty to a worldwide audience. Additionally, the implementation of policies supportive of sustainable tourism practices, alongside fostering robust collaboration between the public and private sectors, stands as a cornerstone for catalyzing sustained growth within the tourism sector.
