Author: The Nation

  • NFVCB classify 274 films in first quarter 

    NFVCB classify 274 films in first quarter 

    By Kayowa Adegboyega

    The National Film and Video censors Board, (NFVCB) has released data of films classified by the Board between January and March 2024.

    According to data from the Department of Film Censorship and Classification, (FCC), the board verified and approved 274 films.

    This volume represents a decline of 2.1% compared to 280 films, which the apex film regulator classified during the first quarter of 2023.

    A further perusal of the data shows that the Abuja Head office of the board accounted for more than half of the movies verified and approved by the board during the review period of the first quarter of 2024.

    The Onitsha and Lagos classification centres which verified and approved more films during the review period of the last quarter of 2023, placed second and third respectively, in terms of number of movies verified and approved during the first quarter of 2024.

    Read Also: Thespians, filmmakers excited as Husseini emerges NFVCB boss

    On films by genre, classification by viewing audience, films classified 18, meant for mature audience, formed the bulk of the films classified by the board, contributing well over 50% of all the films verified and approved during the review period. Films classified as 15, 12, parental guidance, and general trailed behind accordingly.

    However, Films in English Language according to the data, continued to impose itself as the film language of Nollywood. Out of the 274 films verified and approved during the review period, 250 films were in English Language, followed by Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa arrd Hindi languages.

  • Oluwadamilare Adefioye joins Martell as brand ambassador

    Oluwadamilare Adefioye joins Martell as brand ambassador

    Cognac brand, Martell, has signed entertainment guru Oluwadamilare Adefioye aka Dray Way  as its new brand ambassador.

    Adefioye joins Davido as one of the ambassadors of the cognac brand.

    As a prominent player in the entertainment industry, Martell has dazzled entertainment enthusiasts with global brand ambassadors like Davido and Burna Boy.

    In a bid to continue growing their influence in key demographics in the entertainment industry, Martell has added Adefioye to their ranks.

    Read Also: DSS denies shooting man at Lagos filling station

    Oluwadamilare Adefioye is a dedicated and professional entrepreneur in the entertainment space with over 10 years of experience.

    He has worked in nightlife, events, music and hospitality spaces. Oluwadamilare has also worked on several projects for top music acts like Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tems, Mayorkun, Odumodu and Kizz Daniel to name a few.

    Oluwadamilare would describe himself as a serial entrepreneur, who has helped provide job opportunities in the entertainment and creative industry for over five hundred (500) young individuals in Abuja.

  • Inner Drive tells an epic journey through individual narratives

    Inner Drive tells an epic journey through individual narratives

    By Kayowa Adegboyega

    InDrive, the popular car-hailing service, took the leap into the world of cinema with the premiere of its new movie, ‘Inner Drive’.

    The film, a cinematic portrayal of the app’s journey, was unveiled at an exclusive screening in Lagos, which was attended by many stars.

    Produced by the acclaimed Indigoview production company, ‘Inner Drive’ chronicles the real-life stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by inDrive. The movie captures InDrive’s impact on everyday people from drivers who found a lifeline in the app’s pricing model and customers who accessed rides at affordable rates.

    Read Also: Thespians, filmmakers excited as Husseini emerges NFVCB boss

    The film also showcased how inDrive’s BeginIT initiative has empowered individuals in Nigeria with coding skills, thereby opening doors to new opportunities for them. The initiative, which has been instrumental in nurturing young tech talents, was brought to life on the silver screen.

    The premiere was attended by popular Nigerian influencers, Asherkine, Papeeyah and many others.

    The exclusive premiere offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive’s roots, including founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky.

    This special content dives deep into their initial vision and the philosophy fueling inDrive. Viewers will be treated to insightful moments and pivotal turning points that have never been shared publicly, shedding light on the profound impact inDrive has had on communities.

    Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive’s initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.

    The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based Emmy Award winner Dan McCain, and Greek producer and editor Theo Papadoulakis.

  • I’m way bigger than I was two years ago, says Sirbalo

    I’m way bigger than I was two years ago, says Sirbalo

    With over 20 million followers across all social media platforms, seven YouTube channels, five YouTube awards,and more, Timothy Obotuke aka Sirbalo is on the lead in the lineup of biggest Nigerian content creators.

    The founder of the Sirbalo Comedy Clinic, in a chat with The Nation, admits things are a lot easier for him now than they were years ago as he could take on just about any project he desires. He confesses that he is now on easy street after almost 10 years of toiling through the thick and thin in the industry.

    In his words, “Regarding how big content creating business has been for me, I would say through the years of growth the projects I can handle now in the industry are way more advanced than what I handled two years back. An example would be the High School Magical series. So, looking at it from this angle I can say yes it is indeed a big business, because I make a decent amount of money from the contents I put out for my fans.”

    Read Also: Skit maker Sirbalo marries lover

    When asked to put a figure on what he makes on a regular basis, the skits maker, who was recently rumoured to have acquired a N270 million G-Wagon Benz humbly declined, saying he wouldn’t want to have himself targeted by men of the underworld.

    “For security reasons, I won’t like to disclose how much I make from all my platforms, but it is safe to say that I make enough to acquire what I need without having to bother anyone.

    “Financially, I would say I’m blessed to be able to afford some of my needs and that of those around me. Being financially independent is a huge blessing to me. Mentally, content creating has trained me to see life in a different way, because the roles played by people on screen can be different from real life, so It’s best not to judge a book by its cover. Socially, content creation has taken me places I may not have been able to get to ,it has also made me meet more people internationally and locally, offline and online,” he said.

    Some of Sirbalo’s content include Sirbalo and Bae, Mallen College, Teen Love, and His High School Magical series – Season 1-3.

  • The Town Crier preaches Pan Afrikanism in new single

    The Town Crier preaches Pan Afrikanism in new single

    Roy Madu aka The Town Crier has decided to preach Pan Afrikanism in his new song entitled ‘Pan-Afrikanism.’

    Echoing the ideology of the great Kwame Nkurumah, The Town Crier insist that Africans must unite in the struggle to emancipate Africa from the clutches of neocolonialism.

    In a brief chat, the Town Crier explains that the song is a wake-up call packaged in melodies.

    Read Also: Two to die by hanging in Rivers for murder

    “Pan-Afrikanism is a wake-up call packaged in melodies. That’s an interesting way to put it. Yes, Pan-Afrikanism is in itself an interesting concept because it addresses a layered problem. After resisting prejudice and m isinformation by external forces, we now have to look inwards. How have we contributed to our problem? Because Pan-Afrikanism is a joke without African unity. Hence in the chorus, I pleaded with Nigerians to wake up to the occasion . This present generation and future generation has no other country than Nigeria,let’s salvage our country, let’s find a solution to our political and economic problems,” he said.

    Continuing, the Town Crier said, “In between the verses, I sing about the unification of Africa for the goal of emancipation. But how can that be possible when Nigeria, the hope and giant of Africa, cannot even organise its political, economic and societal affairs into one cohesive and smooth working system? I wrote about my wishes for a greater Nigeria in the song. Nigeria has to rise up, because Africa’s future depends on her.

    “Though the song was earlier released while I was in Africa, but when I found myself in diaspora, that deep thought resonated with what I experienced firsthand in the intentional subjugation of the black race. So, I attempted to create a sense of brotherhood and collaboration among all African descent living around his vicinity. This song became a rallying cry among my contemporaries,” he said.

  • Bystanders necessitated our decision to embark on MakeWeHalla

    Bystanders necessitated our decision to embark on MakeWeHalla

    Nollywood actor and director Charles Inojie has opened up on why he collaborated with Ali Nuhu to embark on the MakeWeHalla campaign against domestic violence.

    In a recent interview, Inojie noted that bystanders necessitated his decision to join hands with Ali Nuhu for the campaign.

     “I have since noticed that when we all keep quiet, the abuser, perpetrator of this act of abuse seems confident to do more but when we speak up and against the abuse without being violent, it sends a signal to the perpetrator that he should desist,” Inojie said.

    Read Also: DSS denies shooting man at Lagos filling station

    Inojie also revealed how an incident he witnessed as a young man further changed his mindset about the need to always speak up when domestic violence is witnessed.

    Inojie and Nuhu have been using their social media accounts to campaign against domestic violence.

    Ali and Inojie teamed up in a new video that is making waves on social media and breaking the culture of silence in Nigeria.

    In the recent video Inojie and Nuhu find themselves confronted with a disturbing scenario: witnessing an instance of domestic violence in a restaurant. The two men are faced with a choice. Do they mind their own business or speak up?

    The scourge has become an issue close to the heart of both Inojie and Nuhu, as it is likely to be for many Nigerians.

  • Patrick Idemudia: why we must adopt renewable energy

    Patrick Idemudia: why we must adopt renewable energy

    Patrick Idemudia is a seasoned Port Terminal professional with expertise in operations management, digital transformation, and sustainability strategies in the logistics industry. He has been in the industry for the last 17 years gaining experience in over 10 countries across 4 continents. Patrick is currently working on several insightful analysis, including a study on the impact of blockchain technology in Nigeria’s maritime sector and also the need to go green in port terminal operations. As a strong advocate for renewable energy,  he shares his insights with OYEBOLA OWOLABI. Excerpts:

    What drew you to this field, and what excites you most about working in the dynamic environment of port and terminal operations?

    My journey into this industry began with my background in electrical engineering. After graduating, I became interested in global economics and trade, which led me to explore the shipping and ports business. What excites me about this field is its profound impact on international trade, supply chain efficiency, and economic growth—it’s a constantly evolving industry.

    If you look around, nearly everything we use—whether in homes, hospitals, or malls—has passed through a port at some point. This highlights the critical role the industry plays in our daily lives. Strategic planning and operational efficiencies are at the core of port operations, providing endless opportunities for learning and growth.

    I find it especially motivating to be involved in process improvement systems that impact both economic outcomes and environmental sustainability. The fast-paced nature of the business means I’m always learning something new whenever I step into the terminal.

    Ports are lifelines for global trade, but managing them must come with challenges. Could you share key responsibilities and obstacles in operating container and dry bulk terminals?

    Port terminal operations are incredibly complex. The process begins when goods are loaded at the source port and continues until they’re unloaded at the destination port. In between, systems are required to receive, store, manage, and load goods onto vessels. At the destination, the reverse cycle occurs—discharging, storing, and delivering goods to customers.

    Technology plays a critical role here. Before its integration, operations were heavily manual and inefficient. Over the past 20 years, advancements like digitization, IoT, and blockchain have revolutionized the industry. These tools help improve efficiency, transparency, and safety.

    However, challenges remain. For example, coordinating port operations—like tugging vessels in and out—and managing external players outside your direct influence require constant adaptability. It’s a complex ecosystem where every day brings new learning opportunities.

    How is blockchain transforming port processes, and what potential does it have for improving efficiency and security in international shipping?

    Blockchain is fundamentally about decentralization. It provides a digital, distributed ledger system that enhances efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Over the years, I’ve observed inefficiencies and sharp practices in the maritime sector, especially in Nigeria, and blockchain presents a promising solution.

    For example, blockchain can streamline processes like shipment tracking, smart contracts, and bills of lading. It also ensures traceability and quality assurance. While some early initiatives, like Maersk’s partnership with IBM for the TradeLens platform, faced challenges due to limited adoption and economic viability, the concept continues to evolve.

    Read Also: Stakeholders call for financial solutions to Nigeria’s energy balance 

    Blockchain is becoming more prominent across industries—from arts to medicine to law to technology—and holds immense potential for transforming the shipping industry by fostering trust, transparency, and operational efficiency recognition.

    What sustainable energy options hold the most promise for ports, and how could they impact the environmental footprint of port operations?

    With my background in electrical engineering, I’m familiar with various renewable energy sources like wave, tidal, wind, and solar energy. These are free resources that can be harnessed to generate power. Integrating these solutions at ports would be a win-win—it reduces environmental impact while creating revenue and fostering industrialisation.

    One notable method is cold ironing, where vessels connect to onshore power systems, turning off their diesel engines while docked. Despite its potential, it hasn’t received much attention. Conversations around sustainability need to focus on long-term benefits, ensuring we don’t compromise the future for short-term gains.

    Can you share examples of ports successfully integrating renewable energy?

    There are several examples globally. In Scotland, a company uses underwater turbines to generate tidal energy, supplying electricity to over 105,000 homes. Spain’s Port of Mutriku.

    Finally, what are your future plans?

    Thank you very much for this question. Interestingly, my intention is to enrol for a PhD in the area of Logistics and Port Management with a concentration on Blockchain. This will help me expand my research work in integrating blockchain technolgy in the global port management system. I will be reaching out to a couple of institutions of higher learning to kick-start the process.

  • How brand strategy leadership is evolving in Nigeria’s advertising industry

    How brand strategy leadership is evolving in Nigeria’s advertising industry

    Analytical rigour, strategic foresight, creative intuition and consistency define Remilekun Enitan Dosumu’s advertising career. Over more than a decade, she has emerged as a leading figure in shaping brand strategy, transforming campaigns into benchmark-setting initiatives, and redefining what it means to deliver measurable impact in a complex, competitive market. Her career reflects a rare combination of technical expertise, visionary leadership, and the ability to translate insights into results that resonate with audiences and enhance business performance.

    Dosumu’s journey began in 2011 at All Season Zenith, where she worked as a media executive managing campaigns for clients such as Seven-Up Bottling Company, Chi, Pal Pension, Skye Bank, and Golden Penny. In these early years, she quickly distinguished herself with a capacity to secure value in media investments. She negotiated more favorable rates with vendors, reducing overhead media costs by 12 percent while ensuring compliance and campaign effectiveness. Her strategic approach also unlocked bonus media placements, enhancing visibility and audience reach. These achievements were not merely operational; they reflected an instinct for aligning media investment with broader brand objectives, a skill that would define her career.

    By 2014, Dosumu had moved to QVT Media, taking on responsibilities in content marketing alongside media buying. This shift allowed her to integrate creative execution with strategic media decisions, elevating brand engagement across multiple channels. She collaborated with multimedia teams to create platform-specific content, launched strategic sponsorships and events that enhanced brand visibility, and ensured messaging remained cohesive and consistent. The impact was quantifiable. Campaign effectiveness rose by 27 percent, audience engagement increased, and brands she managed gained measurable traction across both digital and traditional platforms. These outcomes established her reputation for blending data-driven strategy with creative insight.

    In 2017, she joined PHD Media as a senior executive in media buying and control, where her work increasingly shaped brand strategy itself. She implemented real-time monitoring systems for campaigns, optimizing media inventory allocation and enhancing operational efficiency. By cultivating strong relationships with media vendors, she secured priority placements and added-value opportunities that increased campaign impact without inflating costs. Her methodical approach was underpinned by data analytics and performance measurement, ensuring each campaign not only reached its target audience but also achieved measurable business outcomes.

    Her rise within PHD Media was rapid, reflecting her capacity to influence both strategy and execution. As manager of media investment and compliance, she leveraged research and analytics to identify high-performing media channels, increasing campaign engagement by 20 percent. She oversaw sponsorships and events that strengthened brand affinity, maintained a compliance rate of 99 percent, and nurtured junior teams to achieve higher quality output. These initiatives demonstrated her belief that effective brand strategy depends not only on media placement but also on alignment with consumer insights, operational excellence, and team performance.

    Read Also: Inspection firm projects positive outlook for Nigeria’s exports in 2026

    The strategic acumen that Dosumu brought to brand leadership became even more evident when she assumed the role of senior manager and eventually head of media buying and investment. Her leadership during this period has transformed brands through innovative planning and execution. By renegotiating vendor contracts and optimizing media mixes, she achieved a 15 percent reduction in costs while simultaneously boosting return on investment by 25 percent. These efficiencies allowed clients to maximize reach and engagement without exceeding budgets, demonstrating a clear link between disciplined media investment and business outcomes.

    Some of the most visible examples of her work include high-profile campaigns for multinational and domestic brands that have won recognition at the African Magic Viewers Choice Awards, Big Brother Nigeria, and English Premier League activations. Her ability to orchestrate integrated campaigns that combine traditional and digital channels, sponsorships, and event activations has consistently elevated brand presence. By introducing automation tools and piloting innovative media platforms, she not only improved efficiency but also positioned PHD Media as a forward-thinking agency capable of delivering measurable, sustainable results. Over nine months, her initiatives contributed to 85.2 percent of the agency’s commercial income, reflecting the business impact of her leadership.

    A defining feature of Dosumu’s approach is the seamless integration of data analytics with creative strategy. She emphasizes understanding consumer behavior and translating insights into actionable brand solutions. For clients such as Unilever, her campaigns consistently met and exceeded ROI expectations, achieving a 45 percent improvement in performance while maintaining 100 percent return on investment. By combining quantitative assessment with qualitative insights, she ensures campaigns are relevant, culturally resonant, and capable of influencing consumer behavior and loyalty.

    Innovation underpins Dosumu’s leadership. She has introduced tools for real-time campaign tracking and reporting that improve transparency and decision-making for clients. These systems provide clear dashboards for monitoring media performance, ensuring every campaign is measurable and accountable. At the same time, she has nurtured a culture of continuous improvement within her teams, mentoring professionals to think strategically, act decisively, and execute flawlessly. The results have been evident in reduced staff turnover, improved operational resilience, and faster, more accurate campaign delivery.

    Her campaigns are notable for their scale and complexity. From product launches to multi-channel sponsorship activations, she has consistently delivered initiatives that elevate brand visibility, strengthen consumer engagement, and enhance overall brand equity. Her expertise extends to rebranding efforts, guiding organizations through complex transitions while maintaining strategic alignment with business objectives. By applying behavioral science principles to brand messaging, she ensures that campaigns are not only seen and heard but also understood and acted upon by target audiences.

    Dosumu’s leadership has been recognized through numerous awards, including Most Outstanding Media Investment Professional of the Year in 2022 and multiple Pitcher Awards for excellence in media execution. These accolades reflect her ability to translate strategy into tangible business impact while setting new benchmarks for the industry. Her scholarly contributions, including peer-reviewed publications on predictive marketing, multi-channel engagement, and media compliance, further demonstrate her commitment to advancing professional practice and thought leadership in advertising.

    Her academic foundation supports her strategic and analytical approach. Holding a Master of Science in Mass Communication and Media Studies from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor of Science in the same field from Redeemer’s University, Dosumu combines theoretical expertise with practical execution. Her research spans areas such as digital marketing sustainability, healthcare marketing analytics, and consumer engagement frameworks, providing a scientific underpinning for the strategic decisions she implements for brands.

    Beyond her immediate professional achievements, Dosumu is deeply committed to mentorship and industry development. She has mentored junior professionals, contributed to thought leadership panels, and served as a section editor for journals in consumer marketing, product launch management, and brand communication. Her engagement ensures that her influence extends beyond the campaigns she leads, shaping the next generation of advertising and media professionals.

    Dosumu’s approach to brand strategy is characterized by balance: analytical rigor meets creative insight, operational discipline complements strategic vision, and measurable outcomes align with long-term brand growth. Her ability to navigate complex media landscapes, optimize investment, and drive consumer engagement demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the factors that influence brand performance in fast-moving markets.

    Her record illustrates that effective brand leadership is not merely about managing campaigns but about shaping the way organizations connect with audiences. Every media buy, sponsorship, and activation she has managed is informed by rigorous analysis, audience insight, and a focus on return on investment. The results speak for themselves: increased engagement, measurable ROI, enhanced brand perception, and awards that recognize excellence across multiple dimensions of media and marketing.

    Her leadership has transformed brands; optimised media spend and delivered campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive measurable outcomes. She demonstrates that disciplined strategy, creative thinking, and analytical insight can converge to elevate brand performance, establish industry benchmarks, and influence the future of advertising in Nigeria.

    Dosumu’s work provides a blueprint for success. She shows that integrating insights, innovation, and operational efficiency is essential to building strong brands that deliver tangible business value. Her campaigns illustrate the power of strategic media investment and the importance of understanding the audience, ensuring that brands not only communicate effectively but also achieve lasting relevance.

    Through her campaigns, mentorship, and thought leadership, she has set new standards for what it means to build, transform, and elevate brands in a competitive, fast-evolving market. Her work underscores that success in brand strategy requires more than creativity or technical skill; it requires disciplined leadership, insightful analysis, and an unwavering commitment to delivering results that matter.

  • Woman of Tech: Chiamaka Aniuno counts her blessings

    Woman of Tech: Chiamaka Aniuno counts her blessings

    In the dynamic realm of technology, few narratives resonate as profoundly as that of Chiamaka Aniuno, an IT figure. As a formidable force in the technology sector, Aniuno has become a symbol of inspiration and innovation, making a lasting impact domestically and internationally. Her journey exemplifies her abilities and presents an inspiring narrative for aspiring women in technology, illustrating how passion and perseverance can culminate in extraordinary accomplishments.

    Aniuno’s path to prominence was anything but conventional. Initially following a traditional career trajectory, she found herself at a crossroads when she stumbled upon the stories of influential women who paved the way in their respective fields, doing what they loved. Figures like Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer, and American Maya Angelou, the celebrated poet and author, became her guiding lights. Their tales of triumph ignited a fire within her, encouraging her to break free from limiting beliefs and explore her potential in the tech industry.

    “I realized that if they could overcome obstacles and achieve greatness, so could I,” Aniuno reflects. This revelation marked the beginning of her transformation from an aspiring professional to a formidable force in digital innovation.

    The Turning Point: Medallion Data Centre

    In 2014, Aniuno took a significant step forward with Medallion Communications Ltd, now known as Medallion Data Centre in Lagos. It was here that she truly honed her skills, immersing herself in an environment where the rhythmic clicking and clacking of keyboards symbolized progress and innovation. This dynamic workplace became the backdrop for her development as she crafted strategies aimed at propelling tech firms toward rapid growth.

    Read Also: Google releases report on Nigeria’s growing digital opportunities

    Truly, her days were filled with problem-solving sessions and creative brainstorming, all fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the industry. “I wanted to create an impact that would not only benefit businesses today but also leave a legacy for future generations,” she explains. Her commitment to empowering others through technology has become a hallmark of her career.

    Pushing herself to make lasting impressions finally paid off after a decade with Medallion Data Centre. Her efforts earned her several accolades. Notable among them are the Tech Innovation Award 2023 often referred to as the “Oscars” of Africa’s technology sector.

    The Tech Innovation Award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made momentous contributions to technological advancements and digital transformation within the continent. It highlights innovative solutions that empower businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to thrive in an increasingly digital economy. Hence, Aniuno’s recognition underscores her impactful work in bridging the digital divide and fostering growth through technology.

    Again, Aniuno proved that winning is in her DNA. In May 2023, she was honored with Africa’s Beacon of ICT Merit/Leadership Award as the Outstanding Tech Business Personality of the Year 2023. 

    Today, the IT personality is graciously counting her blessings in the industry, and grateful for her background in Applied Microbiology and Brewing from Enugu State University. Consequently, she possesses analytical skills that have proven invaluable in her tech career. These tech skills have set her ahead of the pack in reshaping various industries. 

    Reflecting and Rejoicing Indeed, Aniuno embodies a powerful narrative for aspiring women in tech and beyond. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls a pivotal moment in 2014 when she boldly decided to leave the traditional labor market to pursue her passion for technology immediately after her compulsory service —National Youth Service Corp (NYSC). As one inspired by the courage of Biblical Esther, Aniuno embraced a mindset of determination and fearlessness: “If I perish, I perish.” This decision marked a turning point, as she realized that her drive was fueled by passion and a desire to make a significant impact in the tech landscape. This realization set the stage for her future successes and accolades.

    The Enugu State University alumna has grown in leaps and bounds. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and innovation. Her journey from microbiology to tech entrepreneurship underscores the importance of following one’s passion and embracing change. By sharing her experiences and achievements, Aniuno hopes to inspire other women to explore their potential and make their mark in the tech industry.

    Aniuno’s story is more than just her own; it is a gripping call to action for young women everywhere. By sharing her journey and advocating for diversity in tech, she aims to dismantle barriers and encourage others to pursue their dreams fearlessly. “Every woman has the potential to be a leader in technology,” Aniuno asserts passionately. “It’s about believing in yourself and finding your voice,” she told journalists gleefully. 

    As she continues to navigate the ever-changing world of technology, Aniuno stands as a testament to what can be achieved with determination, creativity, and an unwavering belief in one’s potential. Her journey inspires not only those within the tech industry but anyone striving to make their mark on the world.

  • Heritage Tourism: Preserving the Past, Building the Future

    Heritage Tourism: Preserving the Past, Building the Future

    By Daniel Oni

    In recent years, the conversation around Nigeria’s tourism sector has shifted. No longer is the focus solely on beaches, hotels, and leisure travel. Instead, heritage tourism which is the exploration of cultural, historical, and natural assets is emerging as one of the most powerful tools for economic growth and national identity. To understand this trend, The Nation sat down with Daniel Oni, a tourism and hospitality professional whose research and field experience highlight the importance of heritage preservation in building a sustainable tourism industry.

    “Heritage is our biggest export”

    Daniel begins the discussion with a simple but striking statement: “Heritage is our biggest export.”

    He explains that in a world saturated with global hotel brands and standardized experiences, what truly distinguishes a country is its heritage. “When a traveler visits Nigeria, they’re not looking for the same experience they can get in London or Dubai. They’re looking for the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, the Oyo palaces, the Argungu Fishing Festival, things that cannot be replicated elsewhere.”

    Heritage tourism, according to Daniel Oni, is more than sightseeing. It is about identity, storytelling, and continuity. It gives communities a chance to share their culture while providing visitors with a deeper understanding of history.

    The untapped potential

    Despite Nigeria’s vast heritage assets, Daniel believes the country has only scratched the surface. “We have UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dozens of historic towns, ancient shrines, colonial architecture, and oral traditions that are older than most modern nations,” he says. “But without proper management, documentation, and promotion, many of these treasures remain hidden from the world.”

    He points out that countries like Egypt and Greece have built entire economies around heritage. “The pyramids of Egypt and the ruins of Athens are global magnets. Nigeria has equivalents in terms of our Nok culture, Benin Bronzes, Yoruba kingdoms, but we haven’t built the infrastructure to make them global attractions.”

    Challenges of preservation

    One of the key issues facing heritage tourism is preservation. Many cultural sites in Nigeria face neglect, encroachment, and in some cases, outright destruction. Daniel laments the lack of policies that protect heritage assets.

    “Take the Benin Bronzes as an example,” he says. “They sit in foreign museums as symbols of Africa’s lost heritage. The global community acknowledges their importance, but at home, many of our living sites are deteriorating. If we don’t preserve what we still have, the story of our heritage will continue to be told outside our borders.”

    Beyond policy, Daniel stresses that community involvement is critical. “Heritage must be lived, not just displayed. If local communities don’t benefit from preserving traditions, they will abandon them. Tourism must empower communities to see heritage as an economic resource, not just a cultural obligation.”

    Read Also: Expert mulls innovation to advance Nigeria’s marketing ecosystem

    Technology and modern storytelling

    Heritage tourism may be rooted in the past, but Daniel Oni insists it must embrace the tools of the present. Digital mapping, virtual tours, and mobile applications, he argues, can help bring cultural sites to life for both domestic and international visitors.

    “Imagine a tourist in Ibadan accessing an app that gives them a guided history of Mapo Hall as they walk through it,” he says. “Or a child in Chicago virtually experiencing the Osun-Osogbo festival. Technology gives us the power to expand the reach of heritage far beyond geographical limits.”

    Building a future for heritage tourism

    When asked about the way forward, Daniel offers a clear roadmap:

    Policy reform – stronger laws to protect heritage sites.

    Investment – building infrastructure that makes heritage destinations accessible and attractive.

    Training – developing a skilled workforce to manage cultural assets.

    Community engagement – ensuring locals see tangible benefits.

    Global partnerships – working with UNESCO, museums, and cultural institutions to promote Nigerian heritage internationally.

    “Tourism is not just about leisure,” Daniel concludes. “It is about identity and pride. If we get heritage tourism right, we won’t only boost our economy, we’ll also preserve our story for generations to come.”

    Final Thoughts

    In a time when nations are competing for attention in the global tourism market, Daniel’s words are a reminder that Nigeria already holds something priceless: its heritage. The challenge, as he emphasizes, is not about creating attractions but about valuing, protecting, and sharing what already exists.

    Heritage tourism, he says, is Nigeria’s chance to rewrite its narrative, not as a country defined by challenges, but as a nation rich in culture, history, and experiences that the world longs to see.