Nigerian Travel Startup Wakanow Acquires Ticketing Platform Nairabox

Wakanow, one of Africa’s largest online travel groups, has acquired Nairabox, a Nigerian digital ticketing platform for cinemas and events. The deal marks Wakanow’s entry into the broader experience economy, combining travel, culture, and entertainment into a single ecosystem.

The acquisition builds on Wakanow’s 2023 restructuring into a group entity, when it launched fintech solution Kalabash and accommodation platform RoomDe. By integrating Nairabox, Wakanow users will be able to plan full experiences — from flights and hotels to concerts and cinema — in one place.

“This allows us to offer richer experiences, not just where people go, but how they engage with culture,” said Group CEO Bayo Adedeji, who has long argued that Africa is underpenetrated in global tourism despite its vast potential.

Nairabox co-founder Ugochukwu Jay Chikezie described the move as “a transformative chapter for entertainment in Nigeria,” while new Head of Business Tobi Andero will drive expansion across Africa.