Rakiya A.Muhammad
For Jumai Danjumah, an adventurous traveller from northern Nigeria, the true highlight of her trip to Lagos State was stumbling upon the enchanting wonders of Lekki Conservation Centre.
She describes it as the perfect retreat for unwinding and soaking in nature’s breathtaking beauty.
“A friend introduced me to this lush urban oasis, and I am grateful she did,” Jumai says. “My passion for nature found a home in the centre’s dedication to protecting biodiversity and championing sustainable living.”
Jumai, like countless other visitors to LCC, is left in awe of a sanctuary where nature flourishes right in the heart of urban commotion.
“I was impressed that such a hidden sanctuary existed in the heart of Nigeria’s bustling Lagos, where city life never slows down,” she adds.
Go-To Destination in Lagos
Celebrated as one of Nigeria’s top wildlife conservation centres and a top destination for ecotourism in Lagos, the Lekki Conservation Centre sits at the heart of the city. Spanning 78 hectares of lush forest reserve and wetland on the Lekki Peninsula—equivalent to roughly 100 football fields—it was created to champion ecotourism.
Founded in 1990 with support from Chevron Nigeria Limited, the LCC, owned and managed by Nigerian Conservation Foundation, teems with vibrant plant and animal life, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the region’s rich ecosystem.
The iconic centre for biodiversity conservation stands out as a premier destination in Lagos and across Nigeria, dedicated to environmental education and research.
Visitors can not only find a scenic boardwalk, but they’re also invited to experience the thrilling 401-meter canopy walkway—an adventure that transcends its claim as the longest in Africa and the second-longest worldwide.
Imagine the excitement as you step onto the moving planks, feeling the gentle movement under your feet while the green forest leaves rustle at eye level, sharing the sounds of the wild.
Beyond the walkway, the centre also features a family park, a tranquil haven where families can unwind together, a tree house perched atop a majestic African Locust Bean Tree, and a boardroom for those looking for a unique meeting venue.
The centre offers life-size games, and opportunities for sightseeing, picnics, and tours, making it a lively hub for adventure and relaxation.
Dr Joseph Onoja, Director General of NCF, paints the Lekki Conservation Centre as a beacon for ecotourism and biodiversity in Lagos. Bursting with life, the LCC stands as a symbol of hope, offering a sanctuary for nature even as the city grows and environmental pressures mount.
Onoja outlines the many roles the LCC plays: helping both nature and people adapt to a changing environment, breathing new life into damaged lands, inspiring conservation awareness, offering a tranquil escape into nature, and weaving together environmental care with social and economic advancement.
He adds that over the years, the Lekki Conservation Centre has become a living laboratory, nurturing vital research across water systems, wildlife, and plant life. These studies deepen understanding of the LCC’s invaluable contributions, from carbon storage to biodiversity protection.
The centre is a key location for tree-planting initiatives and conservation projects aligned with corporate social responsibilities and the NCF’s mission to restore Nigeria’s ecosystems and address climate change. This commitment highlights the centre’s leadership in urban conservation. It also features native medicinal trees, inviting visitors to learn and explore.
Rapidly Growing Subsector
Global tourism is expanding rapidly, with ecotourism emerging as one of its most significant and fastest-growing subsectors.
According to Market Data Forecast, the global ecotourism market was valued at US$291 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to US$1,117 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of 16.13 percent from 2025 to 2033.
This surge not only boosts the local economy but also fuels efforts to preserve natural habitats amidst urban expansion.
Urban ecotourism is transforming Lagos by offering residents and visitors opportunities to connect with nature and contribute to conservation.
Charles Ike is one of those who have experienced these unique attractions. He conveys his enthusiasm for the natural environment.
“During my visit, I explored lush trails and admired the diverse plants and wildlife,” he reveals.
“I observed rare birds overhead, their colourful feathers contrasting with the green canopy, and encountered monkeys and other wildlife, which deepened my connection to nature.”
Crossing the centre’s iconic 401-meter canopy walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, filled Charles and his friends with awe and a deeper appreciation for the wonders around them.
“As the gentle rustle of leaves reached my ears and the vast green expanse stretched beneath my feet, I realised the profound resilience of nature in the face of urban expansion,” he relays.
“This elevated perspective sparked a personal resolve in me to advocate for more green spaces within our cities, understanding their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and well-being. It encourages one to support efforts in preserving natural wonders.”
Madam Precious also shares her family’s delight. “The family park at the LCC turned our time into something truly special. It was a peaceful haven perfect for unwinding together,” she articulates.
“We delighted in a variety of recreational activities, savouring treats from barbecue stands and relaxing in outdoor sheds, all of which made our family outing at the LCC unforgettable.”
She appreciated the thrilling adventure showcasing the conservation centre’s lush greenery and wildlife.
“Our visit offered us a first-hand understanding of why conservation matters and highlighted the vital role the Lekki Conservation Centre plays in safeguarding Nigeria’s natural treasures,” she discloses.
Advancing Nature Tourism Nationwide
The NCF’s recent pledge to establish such conservation centres in every state and the Federal Capital Territory has sparked hope. This bold step promises to revive Nigeria’s forests, boost green initiatives, and spark nationwide environmental, economic, and social transformation.
As Chief Philip Asiodu, President of the Board of Trustees of the NCF, reveals creating more LCCs across the country is part of NCF’s stronger efforts under the Green Recovery Nigeria initiative. The goal is to reach 25% forest cover by 2047.
Mr Sharafa Lanrewaju Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, urges Nigerians to reconnect with and invest in the nation’s blossoming eco-tourism gems, spotlighting the renewed Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort in Ekiti State as a shining example.
He paints Ikogosi as a vibrant ecosystem where heritage, wellness, and local enterprise thrive together.
“We are investing in a tourism future that is local, sustainable, and proudly Nigerian,” he says, envisioning a time when the nation’s natural treasures fuel prosperity for both visitors and the communities that nurture them.
He highlights that with sustainable investment from Cavista Holdings, Ikogosi is reclaiming its place as one of Nigeria’s beloved destinations, empowering local communities through new jobs, artisan partnerships, and rich cultural experiences.
He shares their vision to make Ikogosi a leading destination for nature-inspired, wellness-focused, and community-cantered tourism in the continent, a goal already recognized by numerous local and international awards.
“Our goal is to position lkogosi as a flagship for nature-based, wellness- oriented, and community-driven tourism in Africa,” he asserts
“This is why we firmly believe that Nigerians should spend their holidays here and not abroad.”
Ngozi Ngoka, Thematic Lead for Tourism and Hospitality at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), notes that Nigeria’s scenery and vibrant traditions have the potential to attract both travellers and investment.
She encourages Nigerians to explore domestic attractions, support local businesses, and contribute to a robust tourism sector that can earn international recognition.
