The Gambia seeks stronger tourism and business ties with Nigeria

The Gambia is actively seeking to strengthen tourism and business ties with Nigeria. During the 22nd Akwaaba Travel Market Expo in Lagos, Gambian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Abdoulie Jobe emphasized that deeper cooperation could transform historical and cultural ties into tangible economic opportunities.

Minister Jobe urged Nigerian travel trade operators to move beyond viewing The Gambia solely as a destination and instead develop robust commercial relationships. He noted that achieving growth would require deliberate partnership and action rather than mere goodwill. Similarly, Ida Njie, Director-General of the Gambia Tourism Board, called for increased collaboration with Nigerian tour operators, travel agents, and media influencers to better promote the country’s cultural heritage.

In terms of existing connectivity, ValueJet’s Chief Commercial Officer, Trevor Henry, reported that the airline has operated three weekly flights between Nigeria and The Gambia for 16 months. The airline also recently expanded its Banjul route to include Accra, Ghana.