Lagos Set to Launch Tourism Master Plan Implementation in 2026

The Lagos State Government is set to fully implement its Tourism Master Plan in 2026, marking a major step to diversify the economic landscape of Nigeria’s commercial hub. This key policy initiative was announced on November 25, by Mr. Solomon Saanu, Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism and Culture and a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The announcement was made during a strategic meeting held at the lawmaker’s office in Lagos, where he hosted members of the Association of Nigerian Journalists and Writers of Tourism (ANJET). The discussion centred on the untapped potential of the state’s cultural and leisure landscape and the legislative backing required to unlock it.

Saanu emphasised that Lagos possesses the raw materials necessary to compete globally. With its vibrant culture, extensive coastline, and bustling entertainment industry, the state is overdue for a structured approach to tourism.

“Lagos has the population and is also a tourism destination. It is time for us to utilize these potentials and turn it into a money-spinning machine that will return investment to the state,” he said.

To ensure the roadmap is robust and actionable, Saanu has taken a collaborative approach that leverages institutional memory. Rather than reinventing the wheel, the lawmaker is actively consulting veterans of the state’s civil service to ensure the master plan is executed flawlessly.

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Speaking on how to go about the implementation, the lawmaker said, “Currently, I have initiated a plan. I had to call on all the state’s past permanent secretaries and directors in the state’s ministry of tourism. I asked them to come so that we could look into how to implement the master plan.

“You cannot run tourism without a master plan, and I offer credit to those who helped us to package the master plan. I have a copy here. We decided to develop a programme, set up a committee, and start implementing it. I am currently in talks with the governor to secure approval. I have to bring in those that are very knowledgeable in the field, also from sectors such as transportation, etc., that enable tourism to thrive better.

“So that when the process is about to start, all will be involved.”

This holistic approach acknowledges that tourism cannot function in isolation. By integrating sectors such as transportation, the state aims to solve logistical bottlenecks that often deter international and domestic tourists.

Beyond government planning, Saanu recognised the private sector as the driving force behind sustainable tourism growth. He argued that government funding alone is insufficient to build a world-class tourism ecosystem. He called for strategic collaboration, noting that partnership is essential to leveraging private sector expertise and resources. This ensures that tourism initiatives are not only well-funded but also efficiently managed.

By fostering a conducive environment for private-sector involvement—from hospitality chains to tour operators—Lagos State can enhance its infrastructure, attract high-spending visitors, and ultimately boost the state’s GDP.

However, Saanu noted that increased investment must be matched by strict financial discipline. He highlighted the importance of accountability and transparency in budget allocation and spending. The lawmaker called for increased budgetary support for the sector but stressed that regular audits and clear financial reporting must accompany the additional funding. These measures are crucial to ensuring that funds are utilised effectively, delivering tangible benefits to the state’s tourism landscape rather than being lost to inefficiency.

As 2026 approaches, the focus now shifts to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to grant the final approvals needed to turn this legislative vision into an economic reality.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Answers

What is the Lagos State Tourism Master Plan? 

The Lagos State Tourism Master Plan is a strategic policy framework designed to develop the state’s tourism infrastructure, enhance cultural assets, and regulate the industry to boost economic growth and attract international visitors.

When will the implementation of the Master Plan begin? 

According to Mr. Solomon Saanu, Chairman of the Committee on Tourism and Culture, the implementation is scheduled to begin in 2026.

Who is Mr. Solomon Saanu? 

Mr. Solomon Saanu is a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism and Culture.

How does the plan involve the private sector? 

The plan relies heavily on Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). The government aims to create a conducive environment for private businesses to invest in tourism infrastructure and management, ensuring efficiency and better funding.

Why does the tourism plan include the transportation sector? 

Tourism relies on connectivity. The plan involves experts from the transportation sector to ensure that tourists can move around the state, which is vital for the industry to thrive.

What measures are being proposed to ensure funds are used correctly? 

Mr. Saanu has advocated for increased transparency, regular audits, and strict financial reporting to ensure that budget allocations for tourism are utilised effectively and accountably.