Kehinde Fafiyebi Reveals the Shortcomings of Nigerian Tourism

Kehinde Fafiyebi, Founder of FAFKAY Integrated Services Company (FISC), a technology and travel company with operations in Nigeria, Dubai, and the UK, has shared unique insights from his experiences abroad. Observing the advanced tourism frameworks in Dubai and the UK, he highlights areas where Nigeria’s tourism sector falls short.

Driven to elevate Nigeria’s travel and tech industry, Fafiyebi brings a fresh perspective, blending international standards with local opportunities to reshape tourism and immigration consultancy in Nigeria.

He said: “Experiencing the tourism infrastructure in Dubai and the UK opened my eyes to what we lack in Nigeria’s tourism sector. We desperately need a solid maintenance culture, genuine value for money, strategic branding and marketing, and integrated technological components. In Dubai, my role at Royal Holidays DMCC taught me how tourism can drive economic growth and foster national pride. I want Nigeria to experience that same transformation.”

Speaking further, the visionary entrepreneur noted that the lack of maintenance culture threatens Nigeria’s historic tourism sites. He explained: “Our historic sites, like those in Badagry, have so much potential, yet the lack of maintenance threatens their survival. Government involvement, akin to the UK’s National Trust, is essential to preserve our heritage responsibly. Branding is critical. Unlike countries like Malaysia, Egypt, and Kenya that invest in showcasing their tourism on platforms like CNN, Nigeria is missing out on global visibility. Government and private sector collaboration on branding could propel our destinations to international recognition.”

The passionate changemaker, who was recognized as “Entrepreneur of the Year” by the Nigeria Journalist Awards and the Pera Awards in 2023 and also serves as a Youth Ambassador of the ECOWAS Youth Council, emphasized the role of mobile technology in transforming tourism. He stated: “Mobile technology is revolutionizing tourism. A dedicated app could promote Nigeria’s top sites and simplify planning for both domestic and international tourists, putting our attractions at travelers’ fingertips.”