Travel & Hospitality Award | Africa 2019 | www.thawards.com

Cultural Experience
With over 200 million people, Nigeria is the most populous country of the continent
and thus nicknamed the ‘ Giant of Africa’. The country has phenomenal cultural
diversity, with over 250 different ethnic groups that altogether speak approximately 500
different languages. There is an abundance of historical sights of interest making this a
culture-rich travel destination.
Nigeria was colonised by Britain by the beginning of the 20 th century. Under British rule
in 1914, the northern and southern parts of the country were joined in what was known
as the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. The country gained independence from the
UK in 1960 and has since gone on to become one of the fastest growing African nations.
Being a coastal country, its stunning
beaches attract flocks of tourists each
year. But by far the most enticing
advantage of Nigeria is its vast cultural
mixture and associated customs and
traditions. The three most prominent
ethnic groups in the country are the
Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo. They each
have their own caste systems and
administrative policies as well as differing
political and religious ideologies.
One of the most popular destinations in
Nigeria can be found in the ancient town
of Abeocuta. Olumo Rock stands tall at
137 meters above seal level and was
once used as a fort and watchtower. The
area is full of unusual trees and mystical
monuments and once you reach the
very top you are treated to a panoramic
view of the surrounding city.
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