Ghana’s Safari Valley targets Nigerian market as NANTA deepens intra-African tourism drive
Maureen Aguta
Nigeria and Ghana have moved to deepen tourism and travel trade relations following the conclusion of a five-day familiarisation and executive retreat by the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) in Ghana, with Safari Valley Eco Resort positioning itself as a destination of choice for Nigerian travellers.
The retreat, which culminated in an Executive Dinner at Safari Valley Eco Resort in Dawu, Eastern Region of Ghana on July 21, brought together tourism stakeholders from both countries to explore opportunities for stronger partnerships, seamless travel packages and increased intra-African tourism.
The visit forms part of NANTA’s broader “Africa for Africa” initiative aimed at promoting regional tourism and unlocking business opportunities across the continent.
Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts used the occasion to advocate closer Nigeria-Ghana ties, describing both countries as natural partners with deep historical, cultural and economic bonds capable of driving tourism growth across West Africa.
He urged stakeholders to leverage their shared heritage to promote cross-border tourism and create opportunities for travel businesses on the continent.
The call aligns with Ghana’s strategic tourism agenda, which recognises Nigeria as one of its most important source markets. Stakeholders at the retreat also renewed calls for the dismantling of travel barriers within Africa to facilitate the movement of people, services and investments across borders.
Hosting the Nigerian delegation was Safari World, founded by renowned forest scientist and conservationist, Samuel Afari, which used the engagement to showcase its vision of developing a uniquely African tourism experience anchored on nature, leisure and cultural exchange.
Speaking during the executive dinner in Dawu, Afari expressed optimism about the partnership with NANTA and the opportunities it presents for both countries.
“We at Safari World are very excited to meet our Nigerian colleagues from NANTA. Throughout our discussions with the organisation, especially with its President, Dr. Yinka Folami, it has been encouraging to see that ‘Africa for Africa’ has remained a shared agenda for both parties,” he said.
According to him, the partnership provides an opportunity to translate that shared vision into concrete tourism products while strengthening the longstanding brotherly relationship between Nigeria and Ghana.
“We now have the opportunity to translate that vision into action while further strengthening the longstanding brotherly relationship between our two nations. We look forward to welcoming them and showcasing true Ghanaian hospitality and leisure, the Safari World way,” Afari added.
He noted that Safari World’s investment model seeks to redefine tourism offerings in West Africa through sustainable investments in nature, maritime and leisure tourism—segments that have remained largely underdeveloped across the region.
With integrated tourism destinations spanning Accra, Ada and Dawu, Safari World is positioning itself as one of Ghana’s emerging tourism brands, offering a blend of eco-tourism, hospitality and leisure experiences specifically tailored to attract Nigerian and regional travellers.
Leading the Nigerian delegation, NANTA President, Dr. Yinka Folami, described the retreat as a strategic investment in regional tourism partnerships. He disclosed that the association is considering encouraging host destinations to retain NANTA’s conferences and retreats for at least two consecutive years to deepen business relationships and deliver greater value to members.
Industry stakeholders believe the collaboration could unlock new travel packages for Nigerians seeking nature, coastal and community-based tourism experiences in Ghana while opening fresh opportunities for tourism operators in both countries.
Safari Valley’s entry into the Nigerian market comes amid growing advocacy for easier visa processes, improved regional connectivity and stronger public-private sector collaboration to drive the growth of West Africa’s tourism economy.
For NANTA and its Ghanaian partners, the retreat represents more than a familiarisation trip—it signals a renewed commitment to building an African tourism ecosystem where Africans increasingly travel, invest and do business within the continent.