Heathrow Airport: Nigerian travellers are biggest spenders on VIP services and luxury goods

When it comes to splashing the cash in duty-free, it seems that Nigerians do it best.

According to a study compiled by Heathrow, travellers from the West African nation are the biggest spenders on luxury retail and VIP services at Europe's busiest airport.

"Heathrow's VIP Service was originally designed for dignitaries such as heads of state but we recognised that the privacy and exclusivity that we offered is something that many passengers are looking for in their own lives," Jonathan Coen, Heathrow's retail director, said in a statement to Ventures Africa.

"Making the service available to First Class and Business Class passengers, we now provide a quality experience that allows our passengers to enjoy a personalised service and we're delighted to welcome many of these from Nigeria," he added.

Ventures Africa reports that Heathrow Airport's VIP Service is available to First Class and Business Class travellers, flying on any airline to or from Heathrow. They can expect a dedicated entrance to the airport, collection from the aircraft and transportation directly to the exclusive suite where luggage is delivered. The passenger is also assisted with their check-in, immigration and baggage collection procedures.

While some of Nigeria's poorest people live on less than £1.50 ($2.25) a day, some of the more affluent citizens can spend an average of £1,059 per visit on luxury retail while passing through Heathrow.

"The Personal Shopping service is incredibly successful at Heathrow, especially with our international passengers. The service started in October 2013 with a five-member team and just over a year on, we have grown to 15 members who are on hand from the first to the last flight and offer assistance in 38 languages," Coen added.