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Yesterday — 19 February 2026Main stream

Nigeria to Benefit from Turkish Airlines’ Expanded Investment and Tourism Push: What New Updates You Need to Know

19 February 2026 at 13:40
Nigeria to Benefit from Turkish Airlines’ Expanded Investment and Tourism Push: What New Updates You Need to Know

The expansion of Turkish Airlines will likely improve tourism and business opportunities in Nigeria. For Nigerian travelers, business owners, and small-medium enterprise owners, Turkish Airlines will provide them with new tourism and travel business opportunities. The airline promotes Nigeria as an emerging tourism destination as it strengthens its bilateral partnership with Nigeria and Turkey. Turkish Airlines strengthens Nigeria’s and Turkey’s bilateral partnerships by providing customers with the ability to travel to additional global destinations through the Istanbul hub.

Turkish Airlines’ Expanding Reach in Nigeria

With Turkish Airlines’ renewed focus on Nigeria, Nigerian travelers, both business and leisure, will have better travel options. Additionally, Nigerian SME owners will have access to Turkish Airlines’ extensive network of over 350 destinations in 132 countries. This expansion occurs as many Nigerian companies seek to grow into new markets, particularly Turkey, Europe, Asia, and America.

The expanding operations of Turkish Airlines in Nigeria will further Nigeria’s commercial relationship with Turkey. With Turkish Airlines now operating flights from Lagos to Istanbul and other major cities, Nigerian entrepreneurs will have even greater access to Turkish markets, which will help grow Nigeria’s economy even further.

Connecting Passengers to the World

With Turkish Airlines, Nigerian travelers can reach almost anywhere in the world. Nigerian travelers now have access to the largest number of destinations of any other airline thanks to Turkish Airlines’ Guinness World Record recognition for most destinations in 2024.

The Turkish Airlines network also means Nigerian travelers will have shorter waiting times for connecting flights. Whether you are traveling to Istanbul and beyond to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, you will find high travel quality with Turkish Airlines.

Upgrading Onboard Services for Travelers from Nigeria

To further improve the travel experience, Turkish Airlines has announced new and upgraded inflight services for Nigerian travelers. The airline has upgraded its Catering in Economy Class on Nigeria routes and has introduced four new locally-influenced, and crafted dishes arranged to reflect monthly changes. The meals served to travelers will be on the basis of thorough research and positive review from the Nigerian community. With the introduction of new meals, Turkish Airlines wants to improve the quality of travel for Nigerian people.

Partnerships to Foster Tourism Accessibility

Besides improving services to travelers, Turkish Airlines is collaborating with travel and tourism stakeholders in driving travel and tourism from Nigeria to Turkey, and subsequently improving the flow of travel and tourism from Turkey to Nigeria. The airline is collaborating with stakeholders to increase tourism by improving the accessibility and affordability of travel.

For Nigerian travelers, this opens up the rich history, culture, and business prospects that Turkey has to offer. With more straightforward travel options and Turkish Airlines tickets, Nigeria’s tourism will grow, and Turkish Airlines will expand its role in Nigerian tourism.

Technological Advances for a More Comfortable Travel Experience

One of the reasons Turkish Airlines is so determined to deepen its engagement in Nigeria is its technological innovations. The company has made a significant investment in improving its website and mobile applications, making booking much easier, and modifying travel plans, as well as accessing various post-purchase services, all much easier. The purpose of these digital upgrades is to ensure a seamless travel experience to and from Nigeria.

In addition, the Turkish Airlines Holidays Programme is an all-in-one travel platform where travelers can book their flights, accommodations, and extra services. Nigerian consumers will have an enormous level of convenience and high-value cost savings when visiting Turkey due to the comprehensive travel services offered.

Turkish Airlines Respects Safety and Service Experience

Turkish Airlines is committed to safety and quality by performing regular audits and providing training to ensure their staff are up to the current standards of service. For Turkish Airlines, it is of utmost importance that their staff abide by the standards and safety measures of the International Aviation Safety Association. Turkish Airlines aims to provide an exceptional flying experience to Nigerians and all other passengers across its network by maintaining excellence in flight operations, customer service, and customer satisfaction.

The post Nigeria to Benefit from Turkish Airlines’ Expanded Investment and Tourism Push: What New Updates You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Overland Airways Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Quality Management in Nigeria’s Aviation Industry: Everything You Need to Know

19 February 2026 at 13:29
Overland Airways Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Quality Management in Nigeria’s Aviation Industry: Everything You Need to Know

Overland Airways has made history by being the first Nigerian airline to obtain the ISO 9001:2015 certification. This airline has earned ISO certification, which shows that they are devoted to achieving the highest international safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction standards. Overland Airways connects remote secondary airports to larger central primary airports and has achieved recognition for their operational processes.

ISO 9001:2015 Certification Recognizes Overland Airways’ Operational Processes

Any airline can earn the ISO 9001:2015 certification, and the process is lengthy. The certification demonstrates the quality management systems (QMS) that the airline has in place. Overland Airways’ operational processes are validated by the processes that the airline has put in place and the consistent systems that they have documented. The airline has established processes that follow unsaid benchmarks that every reputable airline should meet.

Overland Airways is the first airline to earn the ISO 9001:2015 certification in Nigeria’s aviation industry. Consequently, the airline is now Africa’s pioneer to have the standard certification of the quality management systems (QMS) of the ISO 9001:2015 that every other airline aims to attain. Since 2021, the airline has operated in the Nigerian Pervasive Aviation Environment, and the Operational quality management of this standard certification is the first of its kind in this environment. This environment is characterized by extreme humidity, climate change, and potentially hyperactive weather. This means that the airline has operational processes that other airlines in this environment have never achieved. These operational processes are achieved without compromising the safety of their customers. The operational quality management is of extreme temperatures, climate change, and potentially hyperactive weather conditions.

The Value of Overland Airways is Enhanced by the Achievement of the ISO 9001:2015 Certification

Certification is an achievement of its own, and with Overland Airways being ISO 9001:2015 certified, they have attracted the attention of numerous corporate clients and international partners, and gained the opportunity of signing interline agreements and corporate charter contracts. Additionally, with the airline’s operational standards, it is expected that there will be an increase in the speed of improvement and scheduling of services. The airline will also be able to meet the needs of the business clientele.

The airline also received the certification to demonstrate that they have implemented better risk management strategies. One of the main focuses of the ISO 9001:2015 certification is based thinking. The airline is able to remove obstacles before they happen and automate numerous operational tasks.

On February 17, 2026, the airline’s management team accepted the certification at their main offices. The staff and partners’ joint effort was crucial for the improved certification of Overland Airways as they have increased their reputation as the top airline in Nigeria.

Renewing membership with IATA and getting IOSA certification have been notable steps that show an airline’s commitment to aviation security. Adding another badge of honour, ISO 9001:2015, shows even more progress. As competitors emerge, so should the need for recognition.

Setting the Bar for Other Aerial Services in Nigeria

Adding this badge to the collection shows that Overland Airways deserves to lead the aerial service industry. The reopening of the routes, Ibadan, Warri, and Minna generates more opportunities for Overland to expand its services. With the high value placed on the quality of supplied services, the patronage to the aerial carrier is expected to increase.

Aiming to meet the client expectations is bound to help Overland lead the industry by example. Based on hard facts, prioritising the quality of services is proven to be more than an empty promise. The dedication to quality that the certification reveals is an ongoing commitment.

Final Thoughts: Beginning of Overland Airways’ ISO 9001:2015 Certification Journey

The ISO 9001:2015 Certification is a new milestone and a testament to Overland Airways’ new commitment to excellence. It reflects the company’s willingness to dedicate resources and prioritize customer satisfaction. Added to this is the fact that this certification is a first for the Nigerian market, underlining Overland’s firm commitment to setting the bar in the Nigerian market.

The company is also a testament to the fact that in the Nigerian market, the counters of the sector can be operationalized and can be executed in an organized and ordered manner. Overland Airways and its dedication to operational excellence and quality, which has already positioned the company ahead of its competitors, will only serve to accentuate this. Having captured the first certification, the first in the Nigerian market, Overland Airways is set to gain an unprecedented competitive advantage.

The post Overland Airways Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Quality Management in Nigeria’s Aviation Industry: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Nigeria Increases Airport Cargo Levy, Impacting Agricultural Exporters in Lagos and Beyond: Everything You Need to Know

19 February 2026 at 13:22
Nigeria Increases Airport Cargo Levy, Impacting Agricultural Exporters in Lagos and Beyond: Everything You Need to Know

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has revealed that the new cargo levy is now set at a staggering N25 per kilo from the previous N7 per kilo, which directly affects the cost of exporting goods, especially agricultural produce. The new charge has raised concerns from exporters, claiming that the new pricing will worsen the pricing challenges of perishable goods from Nigeria on the international market.

As per the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s agricultural exports via air, in 2024, were estimated at N220 billion (US$146 million), which is a considerable figure. The volume of exports has been decreasing despite the high cost of air freight, which is making Nigerian goods less competitive in the international market.

Impact of the Cargo Levy on Agricultural Exporters

Nigeria’s agricultural exports are facing challenges that are aggravated by the recent hike in the cargo levy. With the increase in the cost of exports, perishable exports like bananas, peppers, and vegetables are also facing stiff competition. Nigerian exporters have to deal with high and rising shipping charges of $3 to $14 per kilo owing to multiple tariffs cumulatively charged by airlines, handling, and agency companies at the airport. It is a heavy financial burden, and the increase adds the risk of Nigerian produce being priced out of the international market.

Industry experts believe that Nigerian agricultural products are likely to be less and less competitive compared to the rest of the world with the increase in cargo levy. High costs will also be incurred by importers, which will lead to a decline in the demand for agricultural products in Nigeria. This poses the risk of exports from Nigeria declining further.

Freight Costs Because of Government and Airline Charges

Along with the new levies by FAAN, exporters and stakeholders in the industry claim that new charges by different government agencies, i.e., Nigeria Customs Service, Quarantine Service, Nigeria Security Agencies (which have all increased their individual charges), and now, also, Air France and DHL and other cargo carriers, have increased the costs for doing business at the airports.

In the face of multiple and continuing government agency charge increases, exporters are forced to confront the reality that their costs are increasing, and their ability to respond by increasing retail prices in other countries is very limited, and in many instances, is non-existent, which has also resulted in a significant and continuing reduction in the quantity of goods being exported. Some producers have had to reduce their production, which has resulted in less export shipping. This has forced some exporters to reduce their export volumes from Nigeria’s International Market by a drastic 50%, from 10 tons to 5 tons.

Concerns Over FAAN Tariff Adjustment and Its Wider Impact

Multiple trade bodies and cargo agents have started opposing the recent tariff increase. FAAN’s decision has drawn ire from the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders and the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents. These organizations have submitted petitions to the police IG, the chief customs controller, the civil aviation DG, and other government officials to legitimize their concerns on the increase in levies and their likely effects on Nigeria’s position in international trade.

Other than opposing the levy increase, cargo agents have expressed concerns regarding the alleged intention of FAAN to demolish cargo agents’ secretariats as part of FAAN’s retaliation to their protests. If this is true, it will create more disruption in airport trade and hinder it even further.

The Future of Nigerian Exporters and Increased Costs

With the cargo levy increase, there are concerns, but there is still optimism in the Nigerian agricultural export sector. Exporters are asking the government to address the concerns regarding the negative effects the levy increase will have on the agricultural sector. Offering a cargo levy subsidy will make Nigerian produce price competitive in the export markets.

Failure to control the increase in air freight costs will continue to negatively affect Nigerian agricultural exporters. Nigerian exporters need the government to address air freight costs to remain competitive exporters in the global market.

The post Nigeria Increases Airport Cargo Levy, Impacting Agricultural Exporters in Lagos and Beyond: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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Are You Planning to Change Your Next Vacation? The Brand New Three Nigeria-UAE Projects Will Leave Travel-Lovers Astounding!

18 February 2026 at 09:00
Are You Planning to Change Your Next Vacation? The Brand New Three Nigeria-UAE Projects Will Leave Travel-Lovers Astounding!

Following the introduction of three historic collaborative tourism initiatives aimed at revolutionising the travel industry in West Africa, the partnership between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been formally reinforced. The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, affirmed that this strategic partnership is a key component of the country’s plan to diversify its economy away from petroleum. The projects, which include the construction of a flagship hotel, a state-of-the-art cultural centre in Abuja, and the Coco Beach resort in Lagos, are being created to draw in large amounts of foreign direct investment. These initiatives are expected to strengthen bilateral ties and establish the country as a top location in the international hospitality and creative industries.

The Luxury Oasis: Why Coco Beach Is Already Being Called The New Dubai Of Lagos

It is reported that the most ambitious component of the partnership is the development of the Coco Beach resort, also referred to as the Koko Beach Resort, located on the pristine shores of Ilashe in Lagos. The project is currently being managed as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, representing the first internationally branded resort to be situated along this specific stretch of the Atlantic coastline. During a recent progress briefing, it was revealed that approximately 12 percent of the construction has already been completed, with specialised engineering teams from firms such as PR Engineering providing critical water and plumbing solutions for the site.

The resort is designed to offer a total of 60 high-end accommodations, including a sophisticated blend of luxury suites and private three-to-four-bedroom villas that draw inspiration from the natural landforms of the coast. It is planned that the facility will feature three distinct restaurants, a world-class spa, and a sports complex complete with horse stables along a 630-meter coastline. Accessibility is being prioritized, with the resort expected to offer shuttle services via helicopter and private boat from major commercial hubs such as Lekki, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island. By creating thousands of localized jobs, the project is intended to serve as a catalyst for economic revitalization within the Lagos State tourism corridor.

Secrets Of The Capital: The High-Tech Cultural Center That Will Put Abuja On The Map

A second major initiative involves the construction of a state-of-the-art cultural center in Abuja, the federal capital territory. It is envisioned that this center will serve as a dynamic hub for the preservation and promotion of the diverse heritage found within the nation’s 36 states. The facility is being designed to host international art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, and educational workshops, providing a platform for Nigerian creators to connect with a global audience. The UAE’s investment in this project is being viewed as a significant exercise in cultural diplomacy, aimed at fostering mutual respect and shared understanding between the two nations.

The cultural center is expected to play a vital role in strengthening the city’s reputation as an African epicenter for the arts. By providing an immersive experience for both domestic scholars and international tourists, the venue is intended to bridge the gap between traditional history and modern innovation. It has been emphasised that the center will not only showcase the creative economy but also provide a venue for high-level diplomatic engagements and international summits, thereby enhancing the political capital’s global profile.

Where Luxury Meets Business: The Mystery Flagship Hotel Everyone Is Talking About

The final component of the three-pronged strategy is the establishment of a flagship hotel, which is slated to be managed under the prestigious Rotana brand. While the exact location is currently being finalized between potential sites in Lagos and Abuja, the hotel is being developed to cater to the increasing influx of international business and leisure travelers. The facility is expected to set a new benchmark for the Nigerian hospitality sector, offering world-class amenities, expansive meeting rooms for corporate conferences, and high-end dining options.

The arrival of a flagship Rotana property is seen as a testament to the growing role of Emirati business interests in Africa’s largest economy. It is anticipated that the presence of such a recognized international brand will bolster investor confidence and encourage other global hospitality chains to expand their footprint in the region. By providing high-quality accommodations that meet the rigorous standards of international executives, the hotel is designed to support the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Beyond Oil: How A Historic Trade Deal Is Funding Nigeria’s Tourism Revolution

The timing of these projects coincides with the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates in January 2026. This agreement, which was signed on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit, provides a structured framework for trade and investment across multiple sectors, including tourism. Under the new terms, it is reported that visa barriers have been significantly lowered, allowing Nigerian business visitors to enter the UAE for up to 90 days within a 12-month period.

This economic integration is being utilized to eliminate tariffs on thousands of products, including construction materials and furniture needed for the new tourism sites. It is noted that the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has played a key role in ensuring that the partnership facilitates the movement of professionals and specialists required to oversee the completion of the resort and cultural projects. The synergy between the trade agreement and the tourism initiatives is expected to create a sustainable cycle of growth that benefits both the Nigerian workforce and Emirati investors.

The Final Countdown: When Can You Actually Book Your Stay At These New Sites?

As the construction of the Coco Beach resort continues to advance, the focus is now shifting toward the operational phase of the partnership. It is understood that work is progressing steadily on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, an infrastructure project that will further enhance the accessibility of the new tourism hubs. The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy is currently working to ensure that safety standards and transport networks are upgraded to match the world-class quality of the incoming luxury properties.

For travelers and investors alike, the message from the Nigerian government is one of readiness and openness. The successful implementation of these three projects is intended to demonstrate that the nation is a credible partner in the global travel industry. As the flagship hotel location is announced in the coming weeks and the cultural center begins to take shape, the vision of a post-oil, tourism-driven economy is being transformed from an abstract goal into a tangible reality. The combined efforts of the UAE and Nigeria are expected to yield dividends for decades to come, creating a legacy of collaboration and shared prosperity.

The post Are You Planning to Change Your Next Vacation? The Brand New Three Nigeria-UAE Projects Will Leave Travel-Lovers Astounding! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Is Nigeria The Hidden Tourism Goldmine Ready To Explode Into A Global Powerhouse In 2026?

17 February 2026 at 11:54
Is Nigeria The Hidden Tourism Goldmine Ready To Explode Into A Global Powerhouse In 2026?

The Nigeria tourism sector and its underutilised tourism opportunities were recently brought into the international spotlight by Julia Kleber, the CEO of Kleber Group, during a high-profile media engagement in Abuja. It was asserted by the German tourism expert that the Federal Republic of Nigeria possesses a vast, yet largely untapped, wealth of cultural and natural assets that remain invisible to the global travel market in 2026. Through the implementation of strategic investment and compelling storytelling, it is believed that the nation can be transformed into a competitive global tourism destination. It was highlighted that the integration of capacity building and improved infrastructure is essential for the country to capitalise on its rich heritage and diverse landscapes.

The Secret Wealth Hidden In Plain Sight Across Nigeria’s Landscapes

It was observed by Julia Kleber that the core elements required for a thriving hospitality industry are already present within the borders of Nigeria. The nation’s rich cultural, natural, and culinary offerings were cited as foundational pillars that could rival those of the world’s most established travel hubs. From the lush rainforests and rolling hills of the Obudu Plateau to the ancient historical significance of the Benin Bronzes, the diverse topography of the country offers a unique value proposition for international visitors. It was emphasised that the vibrant arts, music, and welcoming population are assets that must be leveraged to reshape the national narrative.

The culinary landscape was also identified as a significant draw for gastronomy tourism, with traditional dishes such as Jollof rice, Suya, and various indigenous soups serving as cultural capital. It was noted that such culinary diversity could be used as a tool for diplomacy, attracting food enthusiasts from across the globe. However, it was also remarked that these extraordinary opportunities are not yet fully visible on the international stage due to a lack of coordinated global promotion.

How One African Nation Secured Millions While Nigeria Watched From The Sidelines

A comparison was drawn between the current state of the Nigerian market and the success of other African countries, such as Angola. It was revealed that through deliberate tourism planning and strong public-private collaboration, Angola was able to secure over 450 million dollars in government investment for its tourism infrastructure. This case study was utilised to illustrate what can be achieved when tourism is treated as a viable and strategic economic sector. It was argued that Nigeria possesses similar, if not greater, potential than its regional peers, provided that a clear national strategy is adopted.

The success of the Visit Angola – The Rhythm of Life campaign was cited as an example of effective destination branding that Nigeria could emulate. By focusing on its 1,600-kilometer coastline and pristine national parks, Angola has managed to attract global attention and investor confidence. It was suggested that Nigeria must similarly prioritise the development of specialized tourism hubs and the revitalisation of existing attractions to prove its seriousness to the international investment community.

Flipping The Narrative: Why Your Perception Of This Nation Is Totally Wrong

The necessity for a drastic improvement in the international perception of the country was underscored as a primary hurdle. It was stated that for every negative story circulated about the region, at least five positive narratives must be projected to balance the global image. The role of the media was highlighted as being instrumental in this transition, as tourism is fundamentally built upon the power of storytelling. It was noted that the perception of Nigeria as a war theatre or a zone of insecurity is often an exaggeration that overshadows the peaceful and vibrant reality experienced by many visitors.

The Voice for Africa initiative, launched by the Kleber Group during the pandemic, was mentioned as a platform dedicated to countering negative stereotypes and promoting the continent’s transformative potential. It was further explained that market education is required to teach global travelers about the safety and hospitality inherent in Nigerian society. By focusing on authentic heritage and community-based tourism, the nation can present itself as a safe and attractive destination for both leisure travelers and high-stakes investors.

The Multi-Billion Dollar Blueprint To Turn Tourism Into Nigeria’s New Oil

The importance of tourism in driving economic growth and job creation was a central theme of the discourse. It was argued that unlike extractive industries, tourism is a peaceful sector that stimulates wide economic activity across aviation, agriculture, and infrastructure. It was projected that if the sector is properly harnessed, it could contribute significantly to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide millions of employment opportunities for the youth population. To achieve this, a clear strategy focusing on product development and investor engagement must be implemented.

Plans for a Tourism Investment Summit were announced, which are intended to be held across the various geopolitical zones of the country to reflect its regional diversity. It was emphasised that tourism is not a one-size-fits-all industry and that each region has unique strengths that must be individually cultivated. Furthermore, the need for sustainable practices and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards was highlighted to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of the environment or local heritage.

Why Training Locals Is The Real Key To Unlocking Luxury Travel

The final component of the proposed overhaul involves extensive capacity building for local communities and hospitality workers. It was maintained that world-class infrastructure must be matched by international standards of service to ensure guest satisfaction. Training programs focused on destination management and digital literacy were recommended to empower the local workforce. By involving the people directly in the tourism value chain, it is believed that the benefits of the industry will be more equitably distributed, fostering social stability and pride.

It was concluded that while the journey toward becoming a premier global hub is long, the process has officially commenced through high-level engagements with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Tourism. The optimism expressed by the Kleber Group suggests that with the right combination of political will and private sector partnership, the sleeping giant of African tourism may finally be waking up. The focus remains on making travel a catalyst for cultural understanding and national progress, positioning Nigeria as the next frontier for meaningful and regenerative luxury travel.

The post Is Nigeria The Hidden Tourism Goldmine Ready To Explode Into A Global Powerhouse In 2026? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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