Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub, is taking significant strides to cement its status as a top-tier global tourism destination. In a bid to enhance the city’s appeal, the Lagos State Government has unveiled a new initiative—monthly city tours that promise to immerse both locals and international visitors in the city’s rich cultural heritage, scenic views, and vibrant atmosphere.
The initiative, which is set to become a landmark event, offers a blend of land and water tours that will showcase Lagos’s iconic landmarks. The tours are designed not only to captivate tourists but also to further elevate the city’s tourism and transportation sectors on the world map.
During a recent event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Idris Aregbe, outlined the details of the tours while addressing a group of Nigerians in the diaspora. The event, which was centered around the theme “Lagos Tourism is Rising,” served as a perfect introduction to the exciting plans for the future of tourism in the city.
“We are unveiling this initiative to strengthen cultural ties with the Diaspora, showcasing the best of what Lagos has to offer,” Aregbe said. “This initiative is more than just a tour; it is an opportunity to promote our cultural heritage, celebrate the growth of Lagos as a tourist-friendly city, and build stronger connections with our citizens abroad.”
The tour’s inaugural run featured stops at some of Lagos’s most treasured cultural sites, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, the Nike Art Gallery, and a delightful dinner event. Participants were treated to a breathtaking view of the city, enjoying a comfortable and engaging ride on double-decker buses, motorbike convoys, and the city’s signature Lagos Ride vehicles. The diverse mix of transport options allowed guests to experience the city from various perspectives, from bustling city streets to picturesque coastal views.
A key feature of the tours was the vibrant atmosphere, filled with music, dance, and lively conversation. The experience took participants through iconic areas like Ikoyi, Lekki, and Lagos Island, allowing them to witness firsthand the city’s blend of historical charm and modern sophistication.
“The energy in Lagos is something you have to feel for yourself. The cultural richness, the warm people, the lively atmosphere—there’s nothing like it,” said Khadijat Omotayo, the Presidential Aide on Constituency Affairs, who was present at the event. “This initiative is a celebration of all the things that make Lagos special.”
Oluwatoyin Atekoja, the Permanent Secretary for Lagos Tourism, emphasized the importance of the initiative in attracting more international visitors, particularly those from the diaspora. “By offering this unique experience, we are showcasing Lagos not just as a business destination but also as a city with a deep cultural heritage and a rich history that beckons people to come and explore,” she said.
The government’s efforts to foster stronger cultural ties with Nigerians abroad are reflected in the thoughtful integration of events that are specially tailored for diaspora communities. The Lagos State Government recognizes the significant role that the diaspora plays in both the cultural and economic development of the city.
The tours are also seen as a major boost to Lagos’s growing transportation sector. The use of iconic transport options such as the stylish double-decker buses and motorbikes offers a fresh, exciting way to experience the city’s vibrant landscape, appealing to both tourists and residents alike.
“Through this initiative, we’re not just showing people our culture, but also the growing transportation infrastructure in Lagos. We are positioning the city as a modern, attractive destination for all,” Aregbe remarked.
The first of these monthly city tours also welcomed renowned cultural figures such as Nike Davies-Okundaye, a globally respected artist, and popular Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo, whose participation added star power to the event. DJ DSF, an internationally known artist, was also in attendance, contributing to the lively atmosphere that marked the inaugural tour.
“This is such a wonderful initiative,” said Adebayo, who also took part in the tour. “Lagos is full of life, and I’m thrilled to see that more people will have the chance to experience it. This city has so much to offer, and it’s about time the world recognizes its potential as a top-tier tourist destination.”
The Lagos city tours are part of a broader vision to position the state as a major player in the global tourism industry, bringing in both leisure and business travelers from across the globe. With landmarks such as the Nike Art Gallery, a powerhouse for Nigerian art, and the J. Randle Centre, an institution dedicated to preserving Yoruba culture, Lagos is clearly positioning itself as a key player in the African tourism space.
As the state continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, there is optimism that these tours will further boost the local economy, create job opportunities, and elevate the tourism industry to new heights. The monthly tours are set to become a cornerstone of Lagos’s tourism strategy, offering a fresh and exciting way to discover the city’s deep cultural roots and its modern, ever-evolving landscape.
These tours will serve not only as an introduction to the heart of Lagos but also as a testament to the city’s ongoing transformation. Whether visitors are exploring Lagos for business or pleasure, the city’s new tourism initiative is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
