The Republic of Benin is from north to south a long stretched country in West Africa, situated east of Togo and west of Nigeria and Cotonou, the capital city of Benin. It is bordered to the north by Burkina Faso and Niger, in south by the the Bight of Benin, in the Gulf of Guinea, that part of the tropical North Atlantic Ocean which is roughly south of West Africa. Benin’s coastline is just 121 km (75 mi) long.
The people of Benin are referred to as Beninese with a population of 10 millions at 2013 with about 42 ethnic groups, most important being Fon, Adja, Yoruba, and Bariba. Our spotlight is on Benin as a result of proximity to Nigeria, trade relations and we share a common indigenous popular language “Yoruba”. Citizens of both countries are quiet friendly and today we have locals who currently live in Nigeria and all over the world.
More Statistics on Benin.
Religions: Indigenous beliefs (animist) 50%, Christian 30%, Muslim 20%.
Languages: French (official), Fon and Yoruba in the south; Nagot, Bariba and Dendi in the north.
Literacy: Total population 39%; men 53%, women 25%.
Recently they launched the National Agency for the promotion of Heritage and development of Tourism to transform Benin into a flagship destination in West Africa. The private sector will play a crucial role in executing the project with the Agency providing continuous technical and financial support to its partners.
Project Highlights
- Transform the Pendjari/W into West Africa’s leading wildlife park.
- Revitalise the lacustrian town of Ganviè (Village on a Lake ).
- Build a thematic museum inspired by the activities of the Abomey Kings.
- Build a museum of voodoo art , civilisation and culture in the area around Port – Nov0.
- Reconstruct the historical city of Ouidah in its original and redevelop its historical trails.
A popular Tourist site – Door of No Return, Ouidah
The Agency and private sector sure have a lot on their plate right now while Nigerians as good neighbors can and should benefit form this if well positioned.
The Benin -Cotonou route has been an age long smuggling path to Nigeria for all sorts of goods ranging from Cars to clothes, Jewelries, Groundnut oil, rice and even frozen Turkey. This will open up new roads, opportunities and a lot more in terms of Tourism exchange for both nations and all over the world
Feel free to also add this to our list of visa free countries.
