There are some experiences that go beyond sightseeing β they connect you deeply to culture, tradition, and community. Attending the Afon Fishing Festival was one of those unforgettable moments.
This is me at the 2026 Afon Fishing Festival, Afon, Asa LGA, Kwara State π³π¬
Located in the peaceful town of Afon in Kwara State, the festival is more than just fishing. It is a celebration of heritage, unity, and the age-long relationship between the people and water. From the very moment we arrived, the atmosphere was alive with excitement, local music, colorful attires, and the warm energy of the community.
Tourists at the Magaji’House in Afon
The highlight of the festival was watching local fishermen display incredible fishing skills using traditional methods passed down through generations. The river became a stage of culture and competition as participants battled to catch the biggest fish while spectators cheered loudly from every corner.
This is me holding one of the fishes catched by one of the fishermen during the festival
Beyond the fishing activities, the festival also showcased cultural dances, drumming performances, local foods, and indigenous fashion that reflected the beauty of the peopleβs traditions. Every moment felt authentic and deeply rooted in history.
Fishermen Duty
One of the most exciting parts of the trip was hiking Odo Ode Hill, located in the neighboring town of Odo Ode. The hike added an adventurous touch to the cultural experience, offering beautiful natural scenery, peaceful surroundings, and breathtaking views from the top of the hill. It was the perfect combination of culture and adventure in one journey.
This is me with other tourists hiking Odo Ode Hill
Another most beautiful parts of the experience was seeing how tourism, culture, and community spirit came together naturally. The smiles, the storytelling, the music, and the togetherness made the festival feel like one big family gathering.
This was me receiving fishes from one of the organizers
The Afon Fishing Festival reminded me that some of the best travel experiences are not found in luxury, but in culture, people, and shared memories. It was truly an experience worth having, and one I would gladly relive again.
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Name β Olaniyan Samuel Email β olaniyantravels001gmail.com WhatsApp Contact β 08101673277 and 07061011210 Facebook β Olaniyan Samuel
There are some trips you go on just to relax, and there are others that leave you with stories youβll keep telling for a long time. My recent trip to Jebba was exactly that kind of experience β a beautiful blend of history, adventure, culture, and nature.
From ancient stories tied to explorers to the peaceful flow of the River Niger, every stop on this journey had something unique to offer. It was more than just sightseeing; it was an experience that reminded me how rich and beautiful Nigeria truly is.
This is me at Jebba, Niger State π³π¬
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the relics connected to Mungo Park, the famous explorer known for his journeys around the River Niger.
Standing there and hearing the stories surrounding his expedition instantly transported me back in time. It was fascinating to learn about the history behind the area and how Jebba became connected to one of Africaβs most talked-about exploration stories.
Thereβs something special about visiting places youβve only heard about in books or stories. It makes history feel real.
This is me at the Mungo Park Boat Relics
Another interesting highlight was the Jebba Railway Bridge. The bridge itself is a beauty to behold. Stretching across the River Niger, it combines history, engineering, and breathtaking scenery all in one view.
Watching trains pass while standing close to such a historic structure was an experience on its own.
The calm breeze from the river, the sound of movement on the tracks, and the surrounding landscape created a peaceful atmosphere that made everyone stop for pictures and videos.
Honestly, itβs one of those places that reminds you how beautiful simple moments can be.
This is me at the Jebba Railway Bridge, River Niger, Jebba, Niger State π³π¬
Another unforgettable stop was Juju Rock. This place carries a mysterious and cultural significance that immediately captures your attention. Listening to the stories and beliefs associated with the rock made the experience even more interesting.
Beyond the stories, the environment itself was calm and scenic. It felt like one of those hidden gems many people have never heard about, yet it holds so much beauty and history.
This was me approaching the famous Juju Rock via canoe ride
I also visited the historic Jebba Railway Station. The station has this nostalgic atmosphere that reflects Nigeriaβs railway history. Walking around the area felt like stepping into another era. The old structure, the tracks, and the movement around the station all added to the charm of the trip.
For lovers of history and photography, this place is definitely worth visiting.
This is me at the Jebba Train Station
Another remarkable part of the journey was visiting the Mungo Park Cenotaph. The cenotaph stands as a historical memorial connected to the story of Mungo Park and his exploration around the River Niger. Being there gave the trip an even deeper historical meaning. It served as a reminder of the many stories, sacrifices, and discoveries tied to the region.
The atmosphere around the monument was calm and reflective, making it a perfect place to pause, learn, and appreciate a piece of history that many people know little about.
This is me at the Mungo Park Cenotaph
To make the trip even more memorable, I ended the adventure with a canoe ride on the River Niger.
The canoe ride was calm, exciting, and deeply relaxing. Gliding across the water while taking in the scenery around us felt surreal. The river breeze, the gentle movement of the canoe, and the laughter shared during the ride made it one of my favorite parts of the tour.
It was the perfect way to connect with nature and fully appreciate the beauty of Jebba.
Canoe Ride Experience
This trip to Jebba was more than just a tour β it was an experience filled with learning, adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
From historical landmarks to natural attractions, every location had its own unique story and beauty. Whether you love history, photography, adventure, or simply exploring new places, Jebba has something special waiting for you.
And if youβve been looking for a sign to explore more of Nigeria, this is it.
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Name β Olaniyan Samuel Email β olaniyansamuel001gmail.com WhatsApp Contact β 08101673277 and 07061011210 Facebook β Olaniyan Samuel
Nigeriaβs century-old Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival has made a grand return after a six-year hiatus, restoring one of the nationβs most treasured cultural celebrations. The revival has reignited excitement across the country, drawing attention back to a festival that has stood the test of time.
Held in Kebbi State, the event once again transformed the historic town of Argungu into a vibrant hub of music, color, and tradition. Drummers, dancers, and cultural troupes filled the air with rhythm and movement, while community leaders and government officials gathered to mark the significance of the occasion.
At the heart of the celebration is the world-famous fishing competition, where hundreds of fishermen dive into the river armed only with traditional nets and gourds. The spectacle is both thrilling and symbolic, showcasing skill, endurance, and a deep connection to nature that has been passed down through generations.
Beyond the fishing contest, the festival highlights the rich cultural heritage of northern Nigeria. Traditional attire, local cuisine, wrestling displays, and agricultural exhibitions reflect the diversity and strength of the regionβs people and resources.
The festival also plays a vital role in promoting tourism and economic growth. Visitors from across Nigeria and beyond gather to experience the festivities, boosting local businesses, hospitality services, and artisans who proudly display their crafts.
More than just an event, the Argungu Festival stands as a celebration of unity, resilience, and identity. Its return not only honors history but also reinforces Nigeriaβs commitment to preserving culture while positioning itself as a vibrant destination on the global tourism map.
Oyo Town was on fire with culture, rhythm, and spirituality as the 2025 World Sango Festival took centre stage in the historic city. This yearβs celebration was nothing short of spectacular, drawing devotees, culture lovers, tourists, and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I with his beautiful wife at the 2025 World Sango Festival
From the palace grounds to the bustling streets, the town vibrated with the sound of drums, chants, and dances in honour of Sango, the thunder god and legendary Alaafin of Oyo. The energy was electric; everywhere you turned, there was a story being told through music, dance, and tradition.
Dignitaries and Kings from different towns across Oyo State at the 2025 Wolrd Sango Festival
One of the biggest highlights this year was the renewed recognition of the Sango Festival by UNESCO. This acknowledgment places the festival on the world stage as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, and you could feel the pride in the air. For the people of Oyo, it was more than just a festival, it was proof that their heritage continues to inspire and attract the worldβs attention.
Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I receiving the certificate of recognition from UNESCO at the 2025 World Sango Festival
The World Sango Festival has always been more than rituals. It is a meeting point for culture, tourism, and community spirit. Locals welcomed visitors warmly, traditional rulers performed rites, and tourists got a front row seat to Yoruba tradition in its purest form. Hotels, markets, and streets were buzzing with activity, showing how culture also fuels the local economy.
Attractions at the 2025 World Sango Festival
Standing in the crowd, hearing the chants of βSango ΓrΓ¬αΉ£Γ , kΓ‘bΓyΓ¨sΓ ooo!β, and watching the colorful processions, I could not help but feel the deep connection between the past and the present. Truly, the 2025 World Sango Festival was not just an event, it was an experience that reminded us all that the legacy of Sango lives on, and now the whole world is watching with pride
Attractions and display of culture at the 2025 World Sango Festival
If you missed this yearβs World Sango Festival, then you truly missed an unforgettable cultural experience. But the good news isβit happens every year, and the next edition promises to be even bigger. Beyond the chants, dances, and rituals, the festival is a living classroom of Yoruba culture, a gathering of people from all walks of life, and a celebration that leaves lasting memories.
So, whether you are a culture enthusiast, a tourist seeking adventure, or someone simply curious about Yoruba heritage, make it a point to attend the 2026 World Sango Festival in Oyo Town. Come witness history, tradition, and spirituality unfold before your eyes. Trust me, it is more than just a festivalβit is an experience you will carry with you forever.
Standing at 42ft in the ancient town of Ile Ife ( Southwestern part of Nigeria ) is the tallest statue in my country, Nigeria and 4th tallest statue in Africa. A replica of the Statue of Liberty, New York, USA. The Queen Moremi Statue is more than just a work of art; it stands as a testament to the bravery and heroism of Queen Moremi.
Queen Moremi Ajasoro was a powerful woman when she was alive. She was the wife of Oranmiyan, the heir to the King of Ile Ife, founding father of the yoruba tribe, Oduduwa. There was a time when the people of Ile Ife were enslaved and also at war with the Ugbo people. These Ugbo people were very powerful and often appeared as masquerade completely covered in raffia leaves. These made the people of Ile Ife believed they were spirits.
At the base of the Queen Moremi Ajasoro 42ft Bronze Statue
These Ugbo people did a lot of harm to the people of Ile Ife on several occasions. In an attempt to stop and be free from war, Queen Moremi reached out to the spirit of the Esimirin River asking for help to know and learn of the power of these Ugbo people in return for a sacrifice she will make. She deliberately went to the front line of the war to get captured.
After she was captured, she used her talent and beauty to attract the King of the Ugbo people and she was made a queen. Queen Moremi earned the trust of the King and his people. She discovered their war tactics and escaped back to Ile Ife. She revealed the secret to the yoruba army the intelligence she collected.
With that information, the yoruba army was able to defeat the Ugbo people. Fulfilling her promise, she returned to the Esimirin River where the spirit demanded her to sacrifice her only son, Olurogbo. She did as promised. She gave up her only son to the Esimirin deity in order to fulfil her end of the bargain, to defeat the Ugbo people in battle.
At the base of the Queen Moremi Ajasoro 42ft Bronze Statue.
To this day, the yoruba people mourn with her and hold her in the highest esteem of any woman in the kingdom. She was immortalised in several ways with books and movies about her. Also, places were named after her. The statue was made of bronze which portrays a graceful and dignified pose of Queen Moremi with her head held high and her arms outstretched. She’s adorned with traditional yoruba clothing & jewelry and her face bears a serene expression that belies her inner strength and determination.
The Queen Moremi Statue is a representation of the yoruba culture and heritage. It serves as a reminder to the younger generation of the importance of preserving and celebrating their traditions and values. The Queen Moremi Statue of Liberty has become a major tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world. It has also become a source of pride for the people of Ile Ife and Nigeria as a whole.
The Queen Moremi Statue has been recognized by various organizations and has won several awards including the Most Innovative Artwork Award at the African Diaspora World Tourism in 2018. Annually, the people of Ile Ife come together to celebrate the Moremi festival in honour of the sacrificial life of Queen Moremi Ajasoro.
Come to Ile Ife and see what the Queen Moremi Statue looks like. Thanks for your time.
Name – Olaniyan Samuel Email – olaniyantravels001@gmail.com Facebook – Olaniyan Samuel (samrockz) & Olaniyan Travels Whatsapp – 08101673277 & 07061011210 LinkedIn – Samuel Olaniyan Instagram – @travelwithsamuel001 & @olaniyantravels
Awon Mass Wedding Festival is one such festival in the north-central region of Nigeria that a lot of people look forward to and attend. The festival has many features which are rich in oral tradition and tourist events deployable for modern cultural entertainment.
An old woman dressed in an all white attire performing at the 2023 Awon Mass Wedding Festival
It’s happening in Shao, Ilorin, Moro local government area of Kwara State. It’s a colourful dance and folk songs traditional festival where all the mature ladies are given out in marriage at the same time.
The marriageable ladies reciting the Ekun Iyawo during the 2023 Awon Mass Wedding Festival
Historically, the festival is said to have emanated from a woman called ‘Awon’ who mysteriously appeared to a hunter and claimed the ownership of a small stream from which he had been drinking water each time he went hunting.
After a while, she requested to be taken to the first Ohoro of Shao. After a series of meetings with the Ohoro and his chiefs, she disappeared. But before then, she handed a charm to them asking that the settlement be renamed after her as Shao Awon.
Kwara State Cultural Dancers performing at the 2023 Awon Mass Wedding Festival
She further instructed the people to always set aside one day in a year to observe her visit and conduct a mass wedding for all mature ladies on the same day. Ever since then, Awon Mass Wedding has become a ritual and part of the culture of the Shao community.
The tradition states that the husbands of the mature ladies do not attend the grand finale. The festival is always graced by Ohoro, Queen, Chiefs, Guests, Tourists and Government Officials from all over Nigeria.
Set of dancers at the 2023 Awon Mass Wedding Festival
The mature ladies do appear fully dressed in Yoruba attire (Aso Oke) each holding an umbrella singing and dancing. They usually dance round the event ground and finally led to their seats.
The marriageable ladies holding an umbrella while they sing
This is amazing. You may want to experience this festival and see with your eye how it’s been done, you’re most welcome.
Name – Olaniyan Samuel Email – olaniyantravels001@gmail.com Facebook – Olaniyan Samuel (samrockz) & Olaniyan Travels Whatsapp – 08101673277 & 07061011210 LinkedIn – Samuel Olaniyan Instagram – @travelwithsamuel001 & @olaniyantravels
Walking through the town might make you feel like you’re seeing double. Igboora is a town and also, the headquarter of Ibarapa Central, Oyo State, Nigeria.
The unusually large number of twins birth in the region has earned the town the nicknameΒ ‘Twins Capital of the World’. This phenomenon of a large number of twins birth is unique in Igboora.
This is me at the 2022 world twins festival with a set of twins (boy and girl)
There are more twins born inΒ IgbooraΒ than anywhere else in the world. Almost every house has at least one set of twins. It’s not exaggerated and that’s the fact.
With my travel buddies from Bayelsa State at the 2023 world twins festival
It is known that one factor contributed to having multiple births in Igboora and the factor is from the consumption of Ilasa soup. Ilasa is made from okro leaves which is processed like Ewedu.
It is believed that Ilasa soup must be prepared using the water from the town, Igboora. Without the water, the Ilasa soup won’t draw as expected. Ilasa soup can be consumed with any swallow food like Amala, Eba, Fufu and co.
With another set of twins (all boys) at the 2022 world twins festival
The twins festival is being celebrated in Igboora every 2nd saturday in October every year. The visioneer of the twins festival are Amb Taiwo & Kehinde Oguntoye.
With the convener of twins festival, Amb Taiwo & Kehinde Oguntoye at the Tarzan Jetty in Lagos State
Do you want to give birth to twins? You can find your way to Igboora town and your dream of having twins will surely come to pass. Igboora to the world.
Name – Olaniyan Samuel Email – olaniyantravels001@gmail.com Facebook – Olaniyan Samuel (samrockz) & Olaniyan Travels Whatsapp – 08101673277 & 07061011210 LinkedIn – Samuel Olaniyan Instagram – @travelwithsamuel001 & @olaniyantravels
Having been to Osun Osogbo Festival, Fugar Cultural Festival and World Twins Festival in my country Nigeria, I still have this hunger to attend many more festivals and this actually drew my attention to theΒ Durbar Festival in Ilorin.
This is me with some of the horse riders and their decorated horses ready to be paraded before the Emir.
Durbar Festival is celebrated across few states in my country especially the northern states like Kano, Jigawa and the likes. It is a day where spectators and riders display their loyalty and valor before the Emir.
Ilorin Durbar Festival is one of the cultural heritage of the people of Ilorin. The event unites the Ilorin people, both young and old, bringing them together in a cultural and historical heritage celebration. It is a day the people of Ilorin always look out for yearly and prepare adequately for it.
At the front of the Emir’s Palace, Ilorin
I learnt that most people travel home for sallah yearly and will indirectly lead to more attendance for the Durbar Festival. More reason why the festival day was fixed a day after Sallah. The crowd yesterday was massive.
This is me admiring the beauty of the costume of one of the horses to be paraded.
Today, the Durbar Festival remains a rich, colorful event typically used to mark the significant Islamic holidays, Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. It is also associated with wartime allegiance, a parade of horsemanship before the Emir to showcase the readiness and loyalty of his regiments.
With the Kwara State number one tour guide, Mr Hakeem Omotosho.
The Durbar festival also serves as a form of tourist attraction and pictorial exhibition because foreigners often travel in to witness the festival. Just like what I did too. The beauty of horse riding drew my attention to it.
This is me posing at the red carpet of the Emirates Ilorin Horse Riders.
Notable personalities across my country attended this famous festival all came in their convoy. The event was a massive one and from all angles, the Ilorin people left nothing behind and ensured that they gave their all in making sure the event was a success.
With one of the royalty men around. It is the attire for me.
I enjoyed the cultural display, horse parade, music performance, pictorial exhibition detailing history of the Emirate and the likes. Ilorin is situated in the Northern part of my country, it is in the North Central and it is the capital of Kwara State.
Thanks for taking your time to read.
Name – Olaniyan Samuel Email – olaniyantravels001gmail.com WhatsApp Contact – 08101673277 and 07061011210 Facebook – Olaniyan Samuel
One of the destination I visited in Lagos State of which I cannot forget in a hurry is the famous Lekki Conservation Centre that houses the longest canopy walkway in Africa and second, in the world.
This is me at the reception of the destination Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.
On visiting, you will be welcomed with the charade of palm fronds and coconut trees as you drive down this magical tourists destination. I visited Lekki Conservation Centre in 2021 and it was worth exploring.
It was an unforgettable experience filled with fun, laughter, excitement, games and adventure. The memory still lingers mehn. You will get to see nature at its best and purest form coupled with beautiful greenery.
The biggest attraction at the Lekki Conservation Centre is the canopy walk. It is a suspended swinging bridge which is about 400m long which gives a dangling movement when you walk on it.
Other attractions are life sized board game, tree house, 96 seater gazebos, koi & tilapia ponds, library and host of others. The monkeys are also delighted to watch. Looking for a place that have best nature reserves with a modern feel, LCC is a sure plug.
A lot of people has question the fact that why tourism and not something else. They wondered why I love traveling to places I’ve never been before. The truth is that, when a man follows his passion, no one can distract or stop him. For me, passion is the drive. Passion is a strong desire for something. I have this so called strong desire for adventure. Strong one so to say.
On an adventure hiking Idere Hills. Idere Hills is located in Ibarapa Area, Oyo State, Nigeria.
As a little boy while growing up, I always had a love for adventure and discovering new places of which I can be on the road for hours. Also, I discovered that I love photography. Then in school, I would take my time and give my colleagues a very decent and beautiful phone pictures. I explored a lot with phone cams.
I found myself drawn to capturing the moments and memories that came with activities around me. I will snap anything I see around me and document them. So, how did I took the bold step to start my tourism career? You want to know right? It’s very simple.
This is me at the Tunde Odunlade Art Gallery in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
As I’ve said earlier, passion is the drive for me. Then in 2019, I met with Mr Omotayo Sunday ( Initiator of Ibarapa Tourism Agenda ). He is a renowned tourism & hospitality coach and also, a notable figure in the Nigeria Tourism Industry.
I saw the agenda, I was part of the media team and the project was a success. He discovered that Ibarapa has what it takes to pull tourists to her environment. And the rest is history today. Ibarapa area is a region of Oyo State in Nigeria.
At the summit of Isamuni Hill in Tapa, Ibarapa Area, Oyo State, Nigeria.
My passion for travel actually led me to start Olaniyan Travels ( a travel company which focuses on promoting the beauty of Nigeria and Africa ) few months after the success of Ibarapa Tourism Agenda. The mission is to discover, document and showcase tourism attractions and destinations that will inspire people to travel & explore.
Let me share one secret; travel adventures are sweeter to recap in old age than being involved at retirement age. The best time for one to travel is when one is young and one can tell lovely memories at old age. Covid 19 actually made me to venture into tourism.
This is me at the La Champagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Lagos, Nigeria
How did I package my first tour? Who did I reach out to? I love nature. Nature is beautiful. Isn’t it beautiful when you climb to the top of a mountain and get to see the lovely views that comes with it. Inspiring people to explore God’s wonderful, amazing and beautiful nature is the mission for us.
Packaging my first tour was tough. I remember a book written by my Pastor, School of Life. I got to know that no matter how huge any task is or how big any dream is, all one need is a starting point. One should start from somewhere.
Inside the Igba Olofin Cave, Lanlate, Oyo State, Nigeria.
I did package my first tour to Ado Awaye Mountain and Suspended Lake. The second recognized suspended lake in the world after the one in Colorado ( America). Few friends of mine buy into it and we went. The tour turned out to be fun and educative. After the tour, I got some calls and I was asked when is the next tour? Wow!
This is me at the Iyake Suspended Lake on the Ado Awaye Mountain, Ado Awaye, Oyo State, Nigeria
I was intentional meeting with some notable figures in the Nigeria Tourism Industry and also, exchanging contacts as well. Tourism is wide I must say. Not only did it involve packaging tours, one must master the art of coordinating people and the likes.
Interestingly, I packaged a tour to Bowers Tower over & over again ( Ibadan in Oyo State ), Idere Hills ( Idere in Oyo State ) and also, to Ado Awaye again. All these within two months. And that’s how the journey started.
At the Bower’s Tower in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Our tours are carefully designed to showcase the best of what Nigeria has to offer. There’s always something for everyone. I’m proud to be part of Olaniyan Travels and I’m grateful for the support of our travel community.
The journey started and we hit the ground running in 2020. The journey hasn’t been smooth as we all expected but we thank God for sustaining us. We also thank our community.
This is me at the 3rd layer of the Olumirin Waterfalls, Erin Ijesha, Osun State, Nigeria
Olaniyan Travels is more than just a travel company. It’s a community. We are passionate about creating memorable experiences that connects people together and also, cater for their unique interest.
I urge all of you to support us in achieving our goal of making Nigeria and Africa the number one preferred destination for all. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the travel world, we welcome you to join us on this adventure.
Thank you for taking your time to follow through. I look forward to connecting with all of you and sharing my love for travel, Nigeria and Africa.
Travel, Tourism and Leisure 