Lagos: Diplomats and travel experts have urged African nations to strengthen bilateral agreements and simplify visa rules to support seamless movement across the continent. They made the call at the maiden Heirs Insurance Travel Festival held in Lagos on Saturday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Manuel Innocencio, speaking on ‘Passport Power and Diplomacy’, urged African governments to sign more agreements to ease travel. Innocencio emphasized that Kenya and Rwanda were deliberately opening their borders and encouraged others to follow their lead for smoother travel experiences. He stated that strengthening border control systems would help the African Continental Free Trade Area function effectively across the continent. He also highlighted the deep cultural ties shared between Nigeria and Brazil, inviting Nigerians to explore Brazil’s historical and cultural heritage.
Angolan Ambassador to Nigeria, Jose Bam³quina Zau, pointed out that visa requirements remained a major barrier to seamless African travel. He noted that rising travel costs could be addressed through better connectivity, increased competition, and stronger infrastructure. Zau explained that travel from Brazil required strict profiling, a passport, and a visa for entry. He added that Angola made visa applications easy, with embassies in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. “Visitors staying at least ten days can receive an Angolan visa within 24 hours,” he said, adding that longer stays required letters of invitation before visas could be issued.
Stephanie Busari, Founder of SBB Media, urged Nigerians to amplify positive national stories to attract more tourists. Travel content creator, Adenike Tejuosho, advised applicants to submit consistent and accurate details to avoid visa rejection. Another creator, Zim Erobu, criticized embassies that deny visas without refunds, calling the practice unfair. Erobu listed Thailand as her favorite destination and said Kenya remained underexplored despite its tourism potential. She urged Africans to explore their continent more, noting that ECOWAS destinations like Senegal offer memorable experiences.
Travel enthusiast Steven Nduku advised budget travelers to choose African countries with easier access and modest costs. He urged travelers to monitor cheap ticket periods and avoid expensive luxury hotels. Nduku suggested visiting neighboring countries by bus to reduce transport expenses and warned that traveling during the Yuletide season was costly and should be avoided by low-budget tourists. He further called for a single African visa to promote easier continental movement.
Head of Marketing at Heirs Insurance, Ifesinachi Okpagu, said the festival aimed to deepen travel literacy and encourage safe exploration of Africa. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event showcased signature dance styles from popular musicians and featured rich cultural performances from various Nigerian tribes.