In a bid to boost the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Lagos and elevate its cultural prominence on the world stage, the Lagos State Government has introduced its Cultural Mission Initiative. This landmark project seeks to spotlight the rich cultural heritage of Lagos, encourage tourism year-round, and foster international collaborations in commerce and cultural exchange.
The initiative, designed to attract both local and foreign tourists, aims to turn Lagos into Africa’s cultural powerhouse, with plans for joint festivals, educational exchanges, and tourism-focused promotions. By highlighting Lagos as a unique destination for arts, culture, and heritage, the government hopes to foster an environment ripe for trade and connection between visitors and residents alike.
Leading the charge on this ambitious vision, Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, expressed the importance of showcasing Lagos’ cultural identity on a global platform. “Our rich cultural heritage must be promoted. We must tell our story to the world,” Aregbe stated, underscoring the mission’s potential to position Lagos as a global hub for culture and tourism and to strengthen diplomatic ties worldwide.
This initiative was unveiled at the launch of the Lagos Cultural Mission Movement, hosted at the Nike Arts Gallery in Lekki under the theme “Advancing the Essence of Culture.” The event, which featured vibrant art exhibitions, traditional performances, and local cuisine, attracted representatives from over 20 embassies, underscoring the initiative’s international appeal.
Explaining the scope of the mission, Aregbe highlighted a year-round cultural calendar that will foster ongoing learning, collaboration, and global partnerships. “We are promoting international collaboration and advancing cultural diplomacy between Lagos and other nations,” he shared, adding, “Through this mission, we’re creating enduring cultural partnerships that will not only benefit Lagos but also build bridges, foster mutual respect, and inspire cooperation with our international friends.”
The initiative also places a strong emphasis on youth engagement, providing young Lagosians with opportunities to connect with elders and deepen their understanding of their cultural roots. This, Aregbe noted, is essential to preserving Lagos’ heritage and bolstering investor confidence in the state as Nigeria’s commercial center. “This journey is about exploring, discovering, and celebrating the beauty of Lagos to inspire investment and tell our story to the world,” he said.
Additionally, Aregbe emphasised the mission’s potential to support the city’s younger generation. “Let’s see how we can support more youths and offer them platforms to contribute positively to Lagos,” he urged, recognising the vital role of youth in shaping Lagos’ cultural and economic landscape.
Nike Okundaye-Davies, founder of the Nike Arts Gallery, echoed these sentiments and called on the Nigerian Minister of Interior to streamline visa access for tourists. “We want the minister to make visas easier for those who wish to visit and invest. It’s currently difficult to obtain a Nigerian visa, and this needs to be addressed,” she appealed, underscoring the importance of accessible tourism in bolstering Lagos’ economic growth.
With the Cultural Mission Initiative now underway, Lagos is poised to further solidify its status as a vibrant epicenter for cultural exchange, tourism, and commerce, and a welcoming gateway for the world to experience the essence of Nigerian heritage.
