The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has received several high-profile visitors in her office at Alausa, Ikeja, during a series of courtesy visits aimed at fostering collaboration in the state’s creative and tourism sectors.
Among the delegates were the Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade; renowned Nigerian actress and scriptwriter, Mrs. Omoni Oboli; Managing Director of Trace Anglophone West Africa, Mr. Samuel Onyemelukwe; Chief Executive Officer of Shakara Festival, Mr. Godson Oriaku, and his team, as well as the Chief Executive Officer of Jyraes Motion Pictures, Mrs. Busola Komolafe, accompanied by her team.
While addressing the visitors, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka reiterated the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting and promoting the creative industry through strategic collaborations, interventions, and endorsements designed to enhance tourism activities across the state
According to her, “The industry has truly grown, and we want it to continue to thrive. The Lagos State Government will keep creating an enabling environment for creatives to excel and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
The Commissioner emphasised the need to project Lagos as a global cultural hub, noting that the state must sustain visibility on international platforms.
She cited the recent E1 Lagos Grand Prix, which hosted about 400 visitors from the diaspora, as an example of how strategic initiatives can attract global participation.
“We have to create opportunities that attract investors and engage both locals and internationals. Beyond the popular ‘Detty December’ festivities, homegrown festivals must be developed through partnerships between the public and private sectors,” she stated.
Benson-Awoyinka added that tourism and cultural activities in Lagos should not be limited to the festive season but should be planned year-round to ensure continuous engagement, economic benefits, and global recognition.
The visits, she explained, were aimed at strengthening partnerships with the Lagos State Government to promote cultural tourism, advance creative development, and expand the reach of creative enterprises, thereby boosting both the state and national economy through sustainable tourism investments.