By Kingsley Adegboye

Stakeholders who gathered at the just concluded tourism stakeholders’ engagement summit organized by Lagos Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, have emphasised the need for collaboration and partnership by operators, practitioners, investors and others involved in the tourism sub-sector of the state’s economy in ensuring a greater Lagos.
The theme of the summit was “Unlocking the Potential and Opportunities of Lagos Tourism: Collaboration and Partnership For A Greater Lagos.”
In her welcome address, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka said “Today’s gathering reflects the Lagos State Government’s steadfast commitment to positioning Lagos as a leading, globally competitive tourism destination. Our vision requires collaboration, shared understanding, and continuous dialogue, which is what this summit embodies.”
The Commissioner who noted that the theme for today’s gathering, “Unlocking the Potentials and Opportunities of Lagos Tourism: Collaboration and Partnership for a Greater Lagos,” captures the core of our collective mandate. added that the future of tourism in Lagos depends on strong alliances, shared responsibilities, and a unified commitment to innovation, sustainability, and destination development.
“I warmly welcome all our stakeholders across the tourism, entertainment, and creative value chains, professionals, investors, destination managers, innovators, thought leaders, and policymakers. Your presence is evidence of your passion and commitment to building a vibrant, sustainable, and investment-friendly tourism landscape for Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
“Lagos is blessed with immense tourism value. It is home to people from across Nigeria and the world, creating a rich cultural mosaic celebrated through festivals, events, arts, cuisine, and entertainment. The continued positioning of Lagos as a top international destination for leisure, business, and cultural experience is a collective effort, and your roles are indispensable.
“This Summit has been convened to achieve several strategic objectives, which include the following:
To strengthen partnerships across the tourism, entertainment, and hospitality value chain;
To enhance service delivery and improve destination competitiveness;
To explore new and sustainable tourism opportunities across the state and
To harness the vast potential within the tourism, entertainment, and creative sectors.
“As a government, we understand that meaningful stakeholder collaboration is essential for building a tourism ecosystem that is accessible, attractive, and impactful. Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, we are committed to providing the enabling environment that supports investment, innovation, and global best standards in this sector
“Today’s conversations, panel discussions, technical sessions, and stakeholder engagements are designed to generate practical insights that will assist in enhancing our infrastructure, safety, strengthening regulatory frameworks, elevating service standards, and improving promotional strategies. These insights are critical as Lagos continues to attract growing local and international interest.
“We must ensure that our systems are efficient, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of a dynamic global tourism industry. Your contributions would shape how ready we are to welcome the increasing number of visitors, tourists, and investors exploring the heartbeat of Nigeria, This is Lagos.
“Together, we have the capacity to unlock the cultural, economic, and creative treasures that define Lagos and strengthen its position as the tourism hub of Africa and a gateway to the world.
“This is time for us to participate actively, share knowledge, engage professional skills, and network, What we build will influence the growth and development of the tourism sector for years and beyond.
“Let me conclude that our decision here today will decide our readiness for the festive season in Lagos State.”