Given that Nigeria has such a terrible reputation among travelers, I am trying to spread the word that I had an enjoyable visit and did some exciting birding while there for a business trip recently. Spent about 4 days of serious birding, in Okomu National Park and at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan. The attached document gives some a summary and logistical information.
Very interesting to see a positive report of Nigeria, Stephen. Anywhere with Black Bee-eaters and either rockfowl must be worth visiting. But Nigeria does get a very bad press. I remember reading one African site guide which said something on the lines of "No birder in their right mind would visit Nigeria because it is hell on Earth." Fascinating stuff, Stephen.
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You must be referring to Nigel Wheatley in his bird-finding book on Africa; "Although Nigeria has one of the most diverse avifaunas in Africa, no one in their right mind would recommend birders to take a trip to this country, until violence and corruption are stamped out and the infrastructure is greatly improved." Considering the difficult places he does send people to, that's pretty shocking. And I am told it's a lot more risky getting to the highlands from the Cameroon side.
Yes, sitting in the treetops with many Black Bee-eaters, Hartlaub's Ducks, and a Guinea (Green) Turaco in sight, and Yellow-casqued Hornbill thundering by, was well worth the hassles of travelling there.