Lagos State has kicked off the year 2025 with an innovative approach to tourism, hosting a roadshow to double the contributions of tourism to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The event, aimed at showcasing the state’s cultural heritage and tourism sites, brought together Nigerians from the diaspora and visitors from across the country, offering them an unforgettable experience.
For the first time, the state government opted for a roadshow format instead of hosting events at a centralized location.
This allowed visitors to explore the beauty of Lagos firsthand through a fun-filled ride, complete with music, dance, and lively conversations.
The convoy, which included a double-decker tour bus, motorbikes, and Lagos Ride vehicles, traveled through iconic landmarks such as Ikoyi, Lekki, and Lagos Island.
During the tour, guests had the opportunity to explore the city’s rich culture and history, with stops at the JRandle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History and the Nike Art Gallery.
These visits provided deeper insights into Lagos’ cultural heritage, leaving the visitors pleasantly surprised.
The event, which marked the first of its kind in the new initiative, culminated in a delightful dinner where guests enjoyed a taste of Lagos’ finest cuisine.
The roadshow was designed to give visitors an unforgettable experience while showcasing Lagos as a top destination for business and leisure.
Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Art, and Culture, highlighted that the state government aims to surpass the tourism milestones achieved in 2024.
He emphasized that the goal was to enhance tourism’s contribution to the state’s GDP while promoting Lagos’ cultural heritage.
“This initiative was created to appreciate Nigerians in the diaspora and lovers of Lagos for making the city their preferred destination for business and holidays,” Aregbe said.
He also revealed plans to continue such programmes throughout the year, strengthening the bond between Lagosians and the diaspora community.
The roadshow will be held monthly, with both land and water tours planned to further showcase the city’s growing transportation and tourism sectors.
Aregbe expressed his confidence that this initiative would make Lagos a more attractive destination for tourists worldwide.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Khadijat Omotayo, Personal Assistant to the President on Constituency Affairs, Oluwatoyin Atekoja, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos Ministry of Tourism, as well as celebrities like Nike Davies-Okundaye, Femi Adebayo, and DJ Six7even.