Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Boosting Creative Industry
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to promoting and supporting the creative industry through strategic collaborations and initiatives aimed at strengthening tourism development across the state.
Benson-Awoyinka made this known while receiving several high-profile visitors in her office at Alausa, Ikeja, during a series of courtesy visits designed to foster partnerships 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; award-winning 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.
Speaking during the visits, the Commissioner emphasised that the Lagos State Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for creatives to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.
“The industry has truly grown, and we want it to continue to thrive. The Lagos State Government will keep creating opportunities for creatives to excel and play their part in driving economic growth,” she stated.
Benson-Awoyinka underscored the need to position Lagos as a global cultural hub, maintaining visibility on international platforms. She cited the recent E1 Lagos Grand Prix, which attracted about 400 visitors from the diaspora, as an example of how strategic events can draw international participation and boost tourism.
“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 added.
The Commissioner further stressed that tourism and cultural activities in Lagos should not be confined to the festive season, but should span the entire year to ensure continuous engagement, economic benefits, and sustained global recognition.
She explained that the courtesy visits were part of efforts to strengthen partnerships with the Lagos State Government in promoting cultural tourism, advancing creative development, and expanding the reach of creative enterprises — all aimed at boosting both the state and national economy through sustainable tourism investment.
