Lagos to Host 2025 World Tourism Day at Tarkwa Bay
The Lagos State Government has announced that Tarkwa Bay Beach will host the 2025 World Tourism Day celebrations on Saturday, September 27. The choice of venue underscores the state’s renewed focus on transforming its beaches into hubs of sustainable tourism and global investment appeal.
On Monday, September 22, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, led senior officials, tour operators, and stakeholders on an inspection visit to Tarkwa Bay ahead of the event.
Describing Lagos as blessed with 183 kilometres of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, the Commissioner noted that the state’s coastline remains an untapped treasure with the potential to rival global tourist destinations such as Cancun and the Maldives.
“This year, the Ministry is spotlighting Lagos beaches. With the right infrastructure and sustainable investments, our beaches can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international resorts. We are determined to transform them into world-class destinations that not only attract tourists but also empower our people,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
The State Government’s plans include:
- Upgrading beach infrastructure and strengthening security.
- Expanding ferry transportation for easy access to Tarkwa Bay.
- Launching capacity-building programmes for local youths as lifeguards, tour guides, and coastal guards — ensuring both safety and employment opportunities.
She stressed that the active involvement of local communities in environmental stewardship, cultural promotion, and hospitality services will be central to sustaining Tarkwa Bay as a vibrant tourist destination.
Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), praised the initiative as “a strategic step toward repositioning Lagos beaches for both domestic and international visitors.”
Similarly, the Beach Master of Tarkwa Bay, Mr. Tolulope Bradley, thanked the Lagos State Government for prioritising the community, assuring full cooperation of residents in areas such as environmental management, seafood services, and improved safety measures.
The inspection visit also featured discussions on enhancing environmental conditions, electricity supply, local cuisine offerings, and specialised training for security operatives to ensure smooth handling of tourists.
With Lagos taking the spotlight for World Tourism Day 2025, Tarkwa Bay is set to emerge as a flagship destination, showcasing how coastal tourism can drive both economic growth and community empowerment.
