Last week, Google announced its plan to open up its second African office in Lagos, Nigeria. We thought that was all until yesterday. The international tech firm seems to have developed a keen interest in Nigeria.

Google has partnered up with the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation in a bid to promote tourism in the country.

Also, through the collaboration with the NTDC, Google aims to train small businesses, equip young individuals with digital skills initiatives, and to launch Tour Nigeria – a new Google Arts & Culture collection.

The announcement, which aired yesterday October 1, seems to be a little Independence Day gift from the tech Giant to Nigeria and its citizens. The partnership is looking to sky-rocket the growth of the tourism sector in Nigeria.

However, for several months now, Google has been working with the NTDC to design an online exhibition of pictures, stories, and commentaries. The digital showcase basis on some of Nigeria’s beautiful locations and precious artefacts.

The project features locations like the Osun Osogbo sacred groove, the Awhum Caves of Enugu, the Wikki Warm spring of Bauchi State, and many more.

Further, stories and pictures of some of the colourful festivals in the country are also part of the ongoing project.

‘’Rich heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Nigeria is a destination we all need to include in our travel shortlist. Even though 2020 continues to be a challenging year for all, I do hope this unique online experience will contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s tourism sector. Though I can’t travel, the project inspired me to start exploring the country through the works of Wole Soyinka,’’ says Director for Google Arts & Culture, Amit Sood.