In Nigeria, the question of how to modernise treasured tourism sites without sacrificing their unique character is an ongoing debate. Issues like over-commercialisation, neglect, and insensitive development frequently challenge the delicate balance between progress and preservation. From the changing face of Erin Ijesha Waterfalls—often cited as a vivid example of tourism’s commercial pitfalls—to the slow decay of colonial landmarks in Calabar, the country’s tourism legacy faces consistent threats.
These challenges underscore a broader West African conversation about sustainable development, identity, and community benefit. Tourism remains a vital source of income and pride for many Nigerians and their neighbours, but success stories are often tempered by environmental loss or cultural erosion. In this climate, new models of responsible tourism are drawing attention, particularly those that centre the environment and indigenous culture rather than displace them.
One such case is the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort in Ekiti State. Unlike many sites where redevelopment uproots history, Ikogosi’s operators claim to have adopted an approach rooted in respect. The resort, managed by Glocient Hospitality (the hospitality division of Cavista Holdings), is said to prioritise eco-consciousness, community engagement, and local tradition. Sharafa Balogun, General Manager, told PREMIUM TIMES that he and his colleagues were confronted with overwhelming deterioration on arrival several years ago.
“When we started, it was challenging,” Balogun recalled. “There was no technical assistance, no architectural or electrical drawings, nothing to work with. The entire place was rundown. We had to sit down and study everything from scratch, from the power systems, infrastructure, and terrain.” This experience mirrors the stories of many Nigerian heritage sites that await either rescue or resignation. Yet, for Ikogosi, heritage and innovation were to be woven together, not placed on opposing sides.
According to Balogun, a single guiding rule shaped their restoration strategy: “preserve the land and honour the culture.” This principle can be seen in practical ways throughout the resort, such as the iconic Tree-House, constructed around existing trees rather than removing them. Entire sections of the lush bamboo forest were carefully trimmed, not clear-cut, ensuring minimal ecological disturbance. “Here, you’d get into trouble if you cut down a tree without permission,” Balogun emphasised, expressing how local custom and ecological awareness shape management policy.
Central to Ikogosi’s appeal is its natural warm spring, a geological marvel where warm and cold streams uniquely converge. Rather than rerouting or reshaping the spring for convenience or aesthetics, developers chose to reinforce its boundaries against erosion, keeping its natural flow untouched. This ecological care has yielded visible results: in the evenings, monkeys and other wildlife still move freely through the grounds, a living testament to a harmonious human-wildlife relationship rarely seen in commercial resorts. “It shows that wildlife continues to feel at home here,” Balogun observed.
This philosophy extends beyond architecture and landscaping. Ikogosi incorporates agrotourism by producing its own yams, watermelons, and pumpkin leaves (ugwu), consumed fresh by guests and staff. “We don’t buy what we eat here,” Balogun explained, reinforcing their commitment to self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. “It’s part of our model to live off the land, responsibly.” According to him, this approach could serve as a blueprint for other resorts across Nigeria and West Africa, where balancing commerce with conservation often proves elusive.
Looking ahead, Ikogosi has announced plans to introduce eco-trails, wildlife interaction zones, and a mini-zoo designed to serve both tourism and education. These initiatives aim to immerse visitors in the site’s natural and cultural heritage—allowing children and adults alike to learn about Nigeria’s ecosystems firsthand, rather than through simulation or imported ideas.
Infrastructure investment is also ongoing under the resort’s NOWAHALAZONE. In recent months, multiple facilities have been upgraded or newly built. Notably, a new Presidential Villa was commissioned by Culture Minister Hannatu Musawa. The completion of a modern reception area is scheduled for mid-2026, and Camp A—one of several visitor lodges—is currently being expanded, increasing accommodation by 32 additional rooms to supplement the existing 60 across Camps B and C.
“What we’re doing at Ikogosi is a model for public-private partnership,” Balogun asserted. While the resort remains a government-owned asset, he said, “the transformation is fully privately funded. Under Governor Abiodun Oyebanji’s administration, the government has provided an enabling environment—no interference or bureaucracy, but also no financial support.” This hands-off approach is, according to local business observers, rare in Nigeria, where overlapping interests and red tape often stifle private-sector initiatives. If successful, Ikogosi’s story could set a new benchmark for the sector.
The resort’s reach is also expanding through its involvement in the Destination 2030 Data Platform, a joint effort with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. The initiative seeks to map out and digitally promote Nigerian tourism assets, linking little-known locations—from the sand dunes of Yobe to remote bird sanctuaries—to a broader audience. “This initiative will boost domestic tourism and position Nigeria competitively on the global map,” Balogun said, noting the importance of these digital efforts in attracting both local and international travellers.
However, even as Ikogosi leverages innovation and partnership, one significant obstacle persists: inadequate road infrastructure. Balogun noted that Ekiti is among the safest states in the country, but long, poorly maintained roads prevent the resort from realising its full potential. “If you could drive from Lagos or Ibadan to Ikogosi in under three hours, this place would explode with traffic. The roads need to be fixed. That’s the only thing slowing us down,” he stated.
Experts in Nigeria’s travel sector echo this concern, reporting that infrastructure gaps remain a primary barrier to regional tourism growth. “Domestic tourism can only thrive where there’s ease of access and a sense of security,” according to Lagos-based consultant Dr. Ifeanyi Ajayi. “For states like Ekiti with immense potential, targeted investment in roads and basic services is non-negotiable.” Balogun’s call for urgent government action is one shared by many stakeholders, including local business owners who depend on steady tourist traffic for year-round income.
Globally, the Ikogosi experiment aligns with sustainable tourism principles championed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, which emphasises local participation, conservation, and economic inclusion. Countries like Ghana and Kenya have piloted similar eco-conscious models, though analysts note that effective policy enforcement and long-term maintenance are critical to success. Nigeria’s opportunity, according to industry watchers, will hinge on its ability to replicate and scale such ventures, while learning from both local and international examples.
The path forward is not without complications. Some critics caution against romanticising the public-private model, pointing to the risk of exclusion or profit-seeking priorities eclipsing community needs. Others question if constraints on land development or strict environmental rules might limit business expansion. Ikogosi’s managers, for their part, insist that community engagement, law enforcement, and transparent agreements underpin their progress—offering periodic reviews and adapting to input from local voices.
As Nigeria positions itself as a leader in West African tourism, the example set by Ikogosi provides tangible lessons about inclusive growth. Thoughtful modernization—grounded in respect for heritage, the environment, and the needs of ordinary people—may prove the most resilient formula for attracting visitors and fostering national pride.
What do you think: Can Nigerian and West African tourism flourish by prioritising culture and environment alongside business? Do you know of similar projects, or have you visited sites like Ikogosi? Drop a comment below and share your insights—your perspective can shape the ongoing conversation on tourism’s future.
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