By Onyeka Ezike
In a thrilling blend of heritage exploration and maritime adventure, staff of Mainland 98.3FM and Creative Naija embarked on an exhilarating boat cruise from the Lagos Marina Jetty to Port Novo, Republic of Benin — a journey made possible by the generous sponsorship of SIM TOP, and aimed at spotlighting the vast potential and challenges of waterway tourism in West Africa.
The adventure kicked off at the iconic Marina Jetty in Lagos, where the excited media team braved early morning rains to board their vessel. As the boat glided across Lagos’ shimmering waters, the crew was treated to panoramic views of the Apapa Seaport and Tin Can Island Port — towering testaments to Nigeria’s commercial backbone. The industrial skyline soon gave way to tranquil mangroves and sleepy settlements as they journeyed through the historic Badagry waterways.
Cruising past fishing villages and scenic banks, the rhythmic splash of water against the boat’s hull created a calming backdrop. However, what was meant to be a three-hour voyage stretched into five due to numerous security checkpoints. From the Nigerian Navy to Customs, Immigration, NSCDC, and Marina Police, the presence of multiple government agencies caused delays and raised concerns among operators and passengers alike.
Otunba Sim Top, a member of the National Boat Operators Association of Nigeria and the boat pilot for the trip, expressed deep frustration. “These checkpoints have become a nightmare for waterway travellers. They delay journeys and hurt our businesses. Some of them are unnecessary and discouraging,” he lamented, visibly disturbed as yet another checkpoint brought their boat to a halt.
Upon reaching Badagry, the team was warmly received at the Badagry Waterfront Marina Jetty by Mr. Tope Fajemirokun, President of the Waterfront and Tourist Boat Owners and Chairman of the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Lagos Chapter. Known for his hospitality and commitment to tourism, Fajemirokun hosted the crew to a delightful Jollof rice meal, complete with grilled turkey and cold drinks, under swaying palm trees — a welcome relief and energy boost before resuming the journey.
As the boat neared open waters again, nature added her own twist. Dark clouds gathered, and a steady rain set in. Yet, the group’s spirit remained unshaken. With makeshift raincoats fashioned from colourful nylons and laughter echoing over the waves, they pressed on — defying the storm and embracing the journey.
At approximately 12:45 p.m., the crew arrived at Port Novo. From there, they proceeded by bus to Cotonou, courtesy of tour guide Akinsanya Adebayo. A brief stop at the local currency market highlighted economic realities — where ₦5,600 was exchanged for just 2,000 CFA francs, a stark reminder of the Naira’s declining value
The cultural highlight of the trip was a visit to the Dahomey Amazon Cenotaph — a solemn monument honouring the legendary all-female military regiment that once defended the ancient Dahomey King Carved in the 17th century, the statue stands as a symbol of resilience, leadership, and heritage.
For the female broadcasters of Mainland 98.3FM, the visit held special meaning. Drawing parallels between the Amazon warriors and their own roles in modern media, the women’s vibrant presence on the tour reaffirmed that both the airwaves and waterways are no longer male-dominated dom
The monument’s history dates back to a time when Dahomey’s male population was depleted by warfare and slave raids. To sustain its military strength, the kingdom recruited women into its elite army — a force so formidable that it stunned European colonists, who dubbed them “Amazons” after Greek mythology. These warrior women served as royal guards and key military strategists, resisting regional invasions and slave raids, especially from the Oyo Empire.
Their legacy — courage, strength, and honour — resonated throughout the journey, inspiring a fresh sense of pride among the Nigerian tourists.
This memorable trip would not have been possible without the support of Mr. Tope Fajemirokun, whose tireless efforts in promoting domestic and regional tourism continue to connect Nigerians with the rich cultural and natural treasures along West Africa’s coasts.
Despite the rain and bureaucratic bottlenecks, the smiles that lit up the faces of the crew upon arrival at Port Novo told the real story — this was more than a trip. It was a story of unity, resilience, and the untapped promise of regional waterway tourism.
