1. Economic and Currency Challenges The naira’s volatility makes pricing international travel packages extremely difficult, as rates can shift dramatically between booking and travel dates, affecting profit margins and client budgets. Travel agents need to hedge against FX volatility by listing rates in USD but receiving full payment in NGN equivalent at the time of payment, encouraging discounts for FX payments, and working with bank relationship managers to free up liquidity. Debt recovery is difficult due to slow legal systems, making upfront payments and solid contracts essential—don’t risk your business even with long-term customers.

2. Domestic Tourism Growth & ‘Bleisure’ Opportunities With international travel having higher costs and complexity, many Nigerians are exploring domestic destinations. Travel agents should exploit this trend which offers larger volumes, higher margins, and zero currency exchange risk. The “bleisure” trend—combining business and leisure—is rising among domestic and regional professionals. Consider creating specialized packages for destinations like Calabar, Abuja, or emerging spots like Yankari Game Reserve.

3. Infrastructure and Transportation Issues Lagos traffic congestion can cause clients to miss flights, while unreliable power supply affects office operations. Secure partnerships with hotels near airports to assist with accommodation, logistics support, long-term parking, excess luggage storage, and early/late flight issues. These partnerships add significant value to your services and help manage the unpredictable nature of Lagos infrastructure. Click here…. https://mailchi.mp/welcomecentrehotels/hi-earn-more-with-welcome-centre-hotels-25-agent-commission-program….. for offers to save 25% i.e, as much as N48,000 when you book as a Travel Agent with Welcome Centre Hotels

4. Security and Safety Concerns Never let clients arrive at destinations uninformed. Stay updated on security situations, entry requirements, airport procedure changes, luggage requirements, and terminal information. An informed customer is a repeat customer. Provide comprehensive travel insurance coverage and maintain real-time communication about any changes that could affect their travel experience.

“Travel agents would be wiser to ask us what we hope to change about our lives rather than simply where we wish to go”

Alain de Botton – Wikipedia

5. Digital Payment and Banking Limitations Restrictions on international card transactions and foreign exchange access make booking challenging. Develop relationships with multiple banks, consider cryptocurrency payment options where legal, and maintain cash advance capabilities. Create partnerships with forex bureaus for better rates and establish credit lines with international suppliers.

6. Competition from Online Platforms Digital platforms dominate travel bookings, making traditional agents less relevant. Add value by becoming the expert who saves the day when things go wrong—or better yet, prevents problems. Know destination tips and advice as if you have firsthand knowledge: whether to carry excess cash, use specific discount platforms, or navigate local customs. Your expertise should be irreplaceable.

7. Visa Processing Delays and Complications Nigerian passport holders face lengthy visa processes with unpredictable changes in requirements. Secure dedicated access to embassy-contracted booking services and develop special contacts to handle last-minute issues. These relationships are difference-makers that bring customers back and increase referral business—the best type of business any company can desire.

8. Technology and Connectivity Issues Invest in the best network setups, connections, power backups, technology, computers, and printers. Adopt digital tools like AI planning assistants, secure mobile bookings, social media marketing, and even AR previews. Be quick to digitally lock down discounts, bargains, and beat deadlines. Digital presence is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival.

9. Industry Reputation & Fraudulent Operators The travel industry suffers from negative public image due to fraudulent agents who vanish with deposits. Actively build your brand focusing on service delivery and satisfied customers, not just low prices. Source customer feedback actively, use social media to highlight your dedicated work results, and let satisfied customers bring more business to your door through genuine testimonials.

10. Changing Traveler Preferences—Experiential & Sustainable Travel Modern travelers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, favor immersive, authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tourism. They seek cultural immersion, adventure, eco-friendly options, and social-media-worthy journeys. Develop packages that offer unique Nigerian cultural experiences, sustainable tourism options, and Instagram-worthy destinations that align with these evolving preferences.