The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to developing a sustainable, year-round tourism ecosystem that extends beyond the widely celebrated “Detty December” festivities.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, announced this on Saturday during the First National Tourism Summit, organised by the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. The event occurred at Koko Beach Hotels and Resorts in Lagos’s Ibeshe/Ikaare Beach area.
According to the commissioner, the summit, held in collaboration with Koko Beach Hotels and Resorts and supported by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, aimed to highlight Lagos’ extensive tourism potential both locally and internationally.
She commended attendees for overcoming their initial apprehension about water travel to explore the Lagos coastline. She added that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration had positioned tourism as a key pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S+ development agenda.
“Tourism is no longer a seasonal affair in Lagos. We are building a city-state that welcomes visitors all year round. From the Fanti Carnival to the Boat Regatta, The Headies, AMVCA, and our December entertainment season capped by the Greater Lagos Countdown, Lagos is fast becoming a global destination,” she said.
The Commissioner also highlighted forthcoming activities, including the E1 Speedboat Racing event on the Five Cowries Creek in October, a series of art, fashion, film, and theatre festivals, and tech exhibitions beginning in September, as part of the drive to transform Lagos into a “City of Festivals.”
She further acknowledged the foundation laid by past administrations, particularly the development of the Badagry enslaved person and heritage routes under former Governor Babatunde Fashola, SAN.
ALSO READ:
- Kano Durbar Cancellation: Tourists and Investors Suffer Huge Losses
- Lagos Tourism Fair Sets ₦5bn Sales Goal for 2025
- Air Algérie’s Maiden Flight to Abuja Deepens Nigeria-Algeria Ties
“We are committed to transforming historic sites into thriving tourism destinations and welcome partnerships with private investors to drive this vision. We want tourism to become what oil is to Nigeria – a major source of revenue and job creation,” she added.
Benson-Awoyinka also assured stakeholders of the government’s continued support through improved security, infrastructure, and traffic management, particularly during peak tourism periods.
She reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to ongoing collaborations with beach investors and tourism enterprises to drive innovation, investment, and employment within the sector.
While delivering the keynote address, Former Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, highlighted the critical role of infrastructure in driving tourism development, emphasising its impact on accessibility, sustainability, and economic growth.
He also underlined the untapped economic potential of tourism in Lagos, stating that tourists could comfortably stay at the beach if essential amenities were in place.
Fashola applauded young Nigerians for promoting cultural heritage and commended the summit’s organisers for fostering a national dialogue on tourism transformation.
In her goodwill message delivered by a representative, the Federal Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, stressed the vital role of tourism in stimulating economic growth.
Similarly, representing the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration (Zone A) highlighted key immigration reforms, including the introduction of an e-visa system, enhanced documentation procedures, and updated security protocols aimed at making Nigeria more accessible to global tourists.
The Chairman and CEO of Koko Beach Hotels and Resorts, Mr Richard Shittu, was commended for his organisation’s co-hosting of the summit and its contributions to developing Nigeria’s eco-tourism and hospitality sectors.
FAQ
1. What is Lagos State doing to promote year-round tourism?
The Lagos State Government is expanding tourism beyond seasonal events like “Detty December” by hosting festivals, exhibitions, and sports events throughout the year.
2. What are the top tourist attractions in Lagos?
The National Museum, Freedom Park, Badagry Heritage Sites, Lekki Conservation Centre, and the Lagos Boat Regatta are popular attractions.
3. How is Lagos improving its tourism infrastructure?
The government is investing in better transportation, security, and digital connectivity to enhance the visitor experience.
4. Is Lagos safe for tourists?
Lagos has improved security measures, particularly in tourist areas, but visitors should remain cautious and follow travel advisories.
5. What are the best times to visit Lagos?
Lagos offers events year-round, but December remains popular due to festive celebrations and entertainment programs.
6. What precautions should tourists take when visiting Lagos?
Travellers should research visa requirements, avoid unsafe areas, and use reputable tour operators for guided experiences.
7. What are the emerging travel trends in Lagos?
Waterway tourism, cultural festivals, and eco-tourism are gaining popularity, with more visitors exploring Lagos’ coastline and heritage sites.
8. How is Lagos attracting international tourists?
The government is collaborating with private investors and launching marketing campaigns to position Lagos as a global tourism hub.
