Nigeria Earned Over $100m from 'Detty December,' Says Tour Operator

Samuel Mobolaji

The chairman of Dees Travels, Professor Sunday Adebisi said, Detty December’ of last year raked in more than $100 million into the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the Dees Travel and Tours Limited Annual event in Lagos, a get-together party organised for its management, staff, stakeholders and shareholders in Lagos, Prof. Adebisi said, when policies are properly channelled toward tourism, Nigeria has what it takes to conveniently transform into the status of a developed country such as Dubai.

He stated that, the outcome of ‘Detty December’ reinforced the country’s strong tourism potential and a place many foreigners want to visit.

He further highlighted how Nigerians and foreigners trooped in large numbers into the country during the yuletide, emphasising that, if only the country can rightly create needed policies, Nigeria will unlock the great potential of tourism for the attractions of fun seekers globally.

Adebisi stated that, the success showcases Nigeria’s appeal as a travel destination, stressing the importance of tapping into the country’s tourism assets.

To him, “You all know what happened during the ‘Detty December’ that brought in more than $100 million, and what that tells you is that Nigeria is a place people want to visit. If we get our tourism sector right, the potential is limitless.”

While acknowledging the effort of the government in the industry, Adebisi charged the government to place more attention on the tourism sector to tap into the unimaginable wealth the sector portends.

“This event has shown that, with proper organization, Nigeria could surpass even Dubai as the premier destination in Africa. With 365 days of summer, there’s no reason why tourists can’t flock to Nigeria year-round.

“We are ready to support the government in achieving its goals, but the right frameworks need to be in place”, he added.

Also speaking, the group managing director of Dees Travels and Tours Limited, Daisi Olotu stressed the need for greater attention to aviation and tourism, two sectors that could significantly drive economic growth.

Olotu argued that, with proper investment and focus, the tourism industry could generate substantial revenue for the country.

Olotu said, “The current government is trying its best, but aviation and tourism need more focus. If aviation gets the attention it deserves, it will generate more money for operators, agents, and the economy at large,

“Tourism has the potential to generate vast amounts of income, and if Nigeria wants to compete globally, it must make these sectors a priority. People are already travelling many Nigerian families have relatives abroad and travel will continue to bring money into the country.”