Features Nigeria Tourism News Tourism News Lagos State Commits to Developing Beachfront Tourism Market Familugba VictorSeptember 23, 20250651 views The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging its extensive beachfront assets to drive socio-economic growth and establish Lagos as a premier tourism destination. This announcement aligns with preparations for World Tourism Day 2025, celebrated globally on September 27. During a stakeholders’ engagement and infrastructure inspection at Takwa Bay Beach, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, emphasised the state’s dedication to revitalising its coastal attractions. Benson-Awoyinka explained that “Lagos is endowed with vast natural assets, and the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu is working to ensure optimal exploration of these resources for development.” READ MORE: ATPN Launches Initiative to Revive Nigeria’s Tourism Sector How Ecotourism Protects Nigeria’s Rainforests in 2025 Ibeno Beach, Eket: Nigeria’s Longest Sand Beach According to Voice of Nigeria, she highlighted the untapped potential of Lagos’s 183 kilometres of pristine Atlantic Ocean beachfront and the scenic routes along the Lagos and Badagry creeks, comparing them to renowned destinations like Cancun and the Maldives. “We want to showcase what Lagos truly has to offer. Lagos is more than just nightlife, food, and fashion,” she added. Addressing Infrastructure Challenges Despite the natural beauty and strategic location of Lagos’ beaches, Benson-Awoyinka noted that infrastructure deficits and unclear land ownership structures have hindered investment and development. “Our assessment of Takwa Bay reveals a serene and beautiful environment that is safe and family-friendly. We have spoken with locals and tourism practitioners, and are now exploring sustainable ways to invest in and promote this destination. This proposal includes improvements in security, transportation, and tourism services like lifeguards and tour guides,” she said. To address these challenges, the government is collaborating with local stakeholders, including tour operators, community leaders, and security agencies, to revitalise Takwa Bay and other coastal areas. The commissioner noted that Takwa Bay could have hosted the E1 Series, an international boating event, but lacked the necessary infrastructure. “That’s why we’re working toward its transformation,” she affirmed. Streamlining Investment Opportunities Benson-Awoyinka emphasised the need for clear investment channels by addressing issues related to land tenure and agency oversight. “One major challenge we have identified is the lack of clarity around which agency is responsible for this area. This discourages investors. We are starting immediately to regularise ownership and streamline agency responsibilities,” she said. To improve accessibility, the government plans to enhance its water transportation system by replacing informal banana boats with safer and more efficient ferries. Recent efforts in the Ilashe-Ibeshe axis, where a power station was handed over to Eko-Disco to provide electricity, serve as a model for similar plans at Takwa Bay, given its proximity to Victoria Island. Restoring Tarkwa Bay’s Glory Reflecting on her personal connection to the area, Benson-Awoyinka shared, “The last time I came here was as a teenager during Easter holidays. It’s a beautiful place that has lost its old glory, but we believe that with proper investment and government involvement, we can restore and elevate it.” The government is also focused on preserving and promoting Badagry’s historical significance, particularly the “Point of No Return”, a key heritage site linked to Nigeria’s history of the transatlantic slave trade. With an expected influx of international visitors for tourism and sports events, such as the E1 Series, Lagos is accelerating efforts to position its beaches as world-class destinations. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Answers What is the Lagos State Government doing to promote tourism at Takwa Bay? The government is investing in infrastructure improvements, including security, transportation, and tourism services like lifeguards and tour guides. They are also collaborating with local stakeholders to resolve land ownership issues and attract investors. Why has Tarkwa Bay’s tourism potential not been fully utilised? Infrastructure deficits and unclear land ownership structures have deterred investment, limiting the development of Tarkwa Bay and other Lagos beaches. How will Lagos improve access to Tarkwa Bay? The government plans to enhance its water transportation system, replacing informal banana boats with safer, more efficient ferries to improve accessibility. What is the significance of Badagry in Lagos’ tourism plans? Badagry’s “Point of No Return” is a key heritage site tied to Nigeria’s transatlantic slave trade history. The state is upgrading this site to preserve its legacy and attract international visitors. How does Lagos plan to compete with global destinations like Cancun and the Maldives? By leveraging its 183 kilometres of pristine beachfront, improving its infrastructure, and promoting its natural and cultural assets, Lagos aims to position its beaches as world-class tourism destinations. What events are driving Lagos’ tourism development efforts? The upcoming World Tourism Day 2025 and international events, such as the E1 Series, are motivating Lagos to accelerate its beachfront transformation and attract global visitors.