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Royal Caribbean Nigeria, a hospitality company, has rewarded travel agents and tour operators who have consistently promoted their cruises in Nigeria.
The head of sales for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Natalya Whitfield, led the team from Royal Caribbean, while Marco Cristofoli, led the International representative for Africa team at the event held recently in Lagos.
A travel consultant, Mrs. Uloma Egbuna, recalled the challenges of introducing cruises to Nigeria in 2007. She said that despite initial resistance, they remained committed and by 2016, the first Royal Caribbean office in Nigeria and Africa was established. She acknowledged the impact of COVID-19 on their progress, highlighting the resilience and commitment of their partners. The day was a tribute to travel partners, emphasizing the strength of collaboration and perseverance.
“We remained resilient and committed to the vision. Fast forward to 2016, we decided to set up the first Royal Caribbean branded office in Nigeria and Africa. We held events in Lagos and Abuja. Slowly but surely, the message was penetrating. From then onward, up until COVID-19, we witnessed year-on-year growth. Then covid happened. All the work it took us several years to do came grumbling like a pack of cards,” she said.
Executive Director of TBI, Mrs. Odion Chigbufue, expressed gratitude to their partners, acknowledging their crucial role in Royal Caribbean Nigeria’s growth as 10 outstanding agents were recognised as ‘cruise star agents’ a testament to their consistent promotion of Royal Caribbean cruises.
She said, “We recognised 10 agents across Nigeria and West Africa who came to Nigeria to receive their awards. What we have done is identify our key agents who have consistently and intentionally promoted Royal Caribbean cruise in Nigeria. They have been resilient and have introduced it to their clients. We deem it fit to express our gratitude by tagging them as star agents in Nigeria.”
