Solomon Buchi, a well-known figure in the media, has suggested that international tourists looking for a genuine Nigerian experience look beyond Lagos and visit other regions of the nation.
In an online video, Buchi contended that although though Nigeria has a number of cities with rich cultures, stunning landscapes, and distinctive experiences to offer, Lagos has emerged as the preferred travel destination for many foreign tourists.
Buchi explicitly advised foreign visitors to Nigeria, irrespective of their country, to think twice before choosing Lagos as their main destination.
“Stop visiting Lagos if you are a non-Nigerian and you want to experience Nigeria in its truest, most beautiful form. Stop visiting Lagos. If you’re Caucasian, Chinese, Asian, whatever you are, stop going to Lagos.”
The media figure attacked what he called Lagos’s overemphasis on entertainment and nightlife. He maintained that Nigeria’s variety is not adequately represented by the city’s boisterous and fast-paced way of life.
“The only thing you can get out of Lagos is begging, clubbing, fake life, and a den of adulterers and fornicators. There is nothing there apart from all the loudness and madness.”
His comments are expected to elicit conflicting responses, especially from Lagos locals and visitors who view the commercial center as one of Nigeria’s most popular travel destinations.
Buchi urged tourists to visit cities in Nigeria’s many regions rather than concentrating on Lagos.
“There are so many places in Nigeria that you can visit and have a good time. Go to Uyo a very serene city. Go to Abuja, a very beautiful place. Even go to Ibadan, Oyo state.”
Additionally, he listed places like Calabar, Jos, Taraba, Kano, Yola, and Bauchi that could provide tourists with an alternative view of Nigeria.
Buchi claims that these places offer chances to enjoy regional cuisine, customs, calmer settings, and unique scenery.
“Good food, rural areas, rustic city vibe, beautiful. Go to Calabar. Go to Jos in Plateau State. Go to Taraba. Go to Kano. Go to Yola.”
Buchi insisted that tourists may have more genuine cultural experiences elsewhere and that Nigeria’s tourism potential goes well beyond its biggest commercial hub.
“There are so many. Go to Bauchi. There are so many beautiful places in Nigeria that is not Lagos.”
Buchi particularly advised visitors interested in Yoruba culture to consider Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, rather than Lagos.
“Even if you really want to experience the Yoruba culture, like I said, go to Ibadan.”
He concluded by encouraging tourists to broaden their travel plans and experience Nigeria’s diverse people, food and cultural heritage.
“Go to other places in Nigeria. The people are nicer. The food is better. There is so much culture and trust me, it’s not smelling there. The water is also clean.”