Lagos is working hard to become Africa's top tourism and creative destination. The state government has revived major cultural festivals and backed over 201 creative projects this year.
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the commissioner handling tourism, arts and culture, shared this on Wednesday. She was marking the seventh year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's administration.
Her ministry has achieved significant wins in culture, entertainment, hospitality, and tourism. These successes align with the governor's THEMES+ development agenda.
A major highlight was bringing back the Eyo Festival after ten years away. On December 27, 2025, the 73rd Adamu Orisha Play honoured late prominent citizens including Chief Abibatu Mogaji and Brigadier-General Mobolaji Johnson.
Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Sir Michael Otedola were also remembered during the event. Both men shaped Lagos in significant ways.
Lagos also hosted the 2026 Fanti Carnival at Tafawa Balewa Square. Over 40,000 people attended, celebrating the city's Afro-Brazilian heritage through music, dance, and fashion.
The state further boosted its creative credentials by hosting the 9th All Africa Music Awards. The event brought together an African Music Business Summit, concerts, and a globally broadcast awards show.
According to Benson-Awoyinka, the ministry sponsored 201 festivals and cultural programmes during the review period. This jumped from 143 events in the previous year.
Her office also issued 159 endorsement letters to creative workers. These letters help artists access sponsorship and partnership opportunities.
International recognition has also come Lagos's way recently. The J.
Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History won the prestigious Thea Award in Orlando, Florida.
It received the award for excellence in immersive cultural storytelling. The honour showcases Lagos's growing global reputation.
Conservation efforts have expanded across the state's heritage institutions. Projects include installing the Eyo Statue at the J.
Randle Centre and placing a Ndubuisi Kanu bust in Alausa.
Statues honouring former Governor Lateef Jakande and Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II are under construction. These monuments will celebrate influential Lagos leaders.
Visitor numbers tell another success story for the state. J.
Randle Centre welcomed 56,040 guests while Freedom Park received 27,593 visitors.
Badagry Heritage Museum attracted 10,908 visitors during the period. Tourism is bringing both cultural pride and economic benefits.
Benson-Awoyinka stressed the government's commitment to culture and tourism development. She views these sectors as vital for economic growth and youth employment.
