The 21st edition of the Akwaaba African Travel Market may have wrapped up its three-day exhibition and conferences, but for delegates, the experience did not end at the halls of Eko Hotel and Suites.
The organizers curated an unforgettable cultural and leisure tour of Lagos State, giving participants a taste of the city’s vibrant heritage, modern infrastructure, and signature aquatic lifestyle.
On the fourth day, the lobby of the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites buzzed with excitement as delegates gathered, eager to explore the host city. The adventure began at the Lagos State Water Authority ferry station in Falomo, Ikoyi. Boarding a ferry, delegates embarked on a 15-minute boat ride to Mile 2 on the mainland, soaking in the breathtaking waterscapes and Lagos’ reputation as a true aquatic city. Conversations, laughter, and networking continued on deck, proving that Akwaaba is as much about relationships as it is about tourism promotion.
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From Mile 2, the journey shifted to rail as delegates boarded the Lagos Blue Line train, experiencing the city’s fast-evolving transport infrastructure while catching glimpses of the everyday hustle of Lagos life. The train terminated at Marina, where buses awaited to take the group deeper into Nigeria’s cultural heart.
At the National Museum, participants were immersed in the Yoruba people’s rich heritage, tracing their traditions from past centuries into the present day. The experience deepened at the John Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture & History, Onikan, where the tour guide, Wole, led the group through vivid stories and exhibits showcasing the resilience, artistry, and philosophy of the Yoruba civilization.
To crown the day, the delegation headed to Kyma Beach Centre in Lekki for an after-party, where food, music, and relaxation fused into the perfect finale. For many, it was a rare chance to enjoy Lagos beyond the traffic and stereotypes, discovering a city where culture, history, and leisure blend seamlessly.
The cultural tour reinforced what Akwaaba has represented for 21 years: more than an exhibition, it is an experience. Delegates left Lagos not just with business contacts and new industry insights, but with memories of Nigeria’s bustling metropolis that will linger long after the event. It is this mix of commerce and culture that has cemented Akwaaba’s place as West Africa’s premier travel and tourism gathering.
