Koyafoto

18/09/2025

PHOTO NEWS

On Wednesday, 17th September, 2025, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Mrs. T**e Benson-Awoyinka, received the Presiding Chaplain, Lagos State Chapel of Christ the Light, Rev’d Dr. Dele Ajayi; Chaplain, Chaplain, Chapel of Christ the Light, Rev’d Dr. Olurotimi Taiwo, along with the Assistant Director, Finance & Accounts, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MTAC), Rev’d Dr. Taiwo Richardson Allen, at a courtesy visit to her office in Alausa, Ikeja.

04/09/2025

GOODWILL MESSAGE DELIVERED BY THE LAGOS STATE COMMISSIONER FOR TOURISM, ARTS, AND CULTURE, MRS.TOKE BENSON-AWOYINKA, AT GITEX NIGERIA HELD AT THE J-RANDLE CENTRE FOR YORUBA CULTURE AND HISTORY, ONIKAN, LAGOS, ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2025

PROTOCOL

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all and to present Lagos State as a vibrant cultural hub and an exciting tourism destination for visitors from across the world.

Lagos stands tall as a global destination, blessed with a rich cultural and historical heritage, diverse traditions, a thriving arts scene, an energetic nightlife, and culinary experiences that capture the true essence of creativity.

From landmark historical sites and scenic beaches to bustling arts-and-crafts markets and unique attractions across our waterways, Lagos offers something truly special for everyone.

Our state is a melting pot of cultures, home to people from all over Nigeria and beyond. This diversity fuels our festivals, music, dance, fashion, and food, making Lagos a tapestry of cultural expression. Indeed, tourism in Lagos is not just about leisure. It is a driver of jobs, innovation, and economic growth.

Visitors can explore our five divisions, each showcasing unique aspects of our cultural identity. From world-class art galleries such as Nike Art Gallery, to heritage landmarks such as the Badagary Slave Route and slave market, the J-Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History where we are gathered today, and our beautiful beaches including Tarkwa Bay, Koko Beach, and Elegushi, Lagos offers experiences that remain unforgettable. Our traditional textiles, handicrafts, and vibrant markets further enrich this journey.

Lagos also never sleeps, by day or by night. From rooftop lounges to beachfront clubs, the city offers boundless energy and excitement after dark. And, of course, no visit to Lagos would be complete without savoring our local cuisine, whether it is the world-famous “Nigeria Jollof Rice,” suya (spiced grilled meat), or egusi soup with pounded yam.

The Lagos State Government remains committed to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage while investing in infrastructure, landmark tours, and strategic global

17/08/2025

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture. Mrs T**e Benson-Awoyinka; Nigerian Musician Terry Alexander Ejeh known as Terry Apala and Special Adviser to Lagos State Sustainable Development Goal. Dr Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, during a courtesy visit of Apala Afrobeat to the Commissioner's office in Alausa Ikeja, Lagos.

16/04/2025

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. T**e Benson-Awoyinka, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye received one of our worthy ambassadors in the entertainment industry, Mr. Adekunle Kosoko, professionally known as Adekunle Gold, during a courtesy visit to her office.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, focused on fostering strategic partnerships to promote the rich cultural heritage of Lagos State. Discussions centred on collaborative initiatives to spotlight indigenous music, empower youth talent within the creative industry, and further position Lagos as a leading cultural and tourism destination on the global stage.

16/04/2025

LASG Revives Cultural Heritage with the Return of Fanti Carnival 2025

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the Consulate of Brazil in Lagos, has officially announced the return of the Lagos Fanti Carnival—a vibrant cultural celebration scheduled to hold on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos from 10a.m to 10p.m.

At a well-attended press briefing held at the Brazilian Consulate on Lagos Island on Tuesday, the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs T**e Benson-Awoyinka described the carnival as one of Lagos' most cherished cultural events. She emphasized its deep historical roots in the returnee Afro-Brazilian communities, particularly of Yoruba descent, who resettled in Lagos in the late 19th century after centuries of displacement through the transatlantic slave trade.

“The Lagos Fanti Carnival is more than a spectacle—it is a vibrant, living expression of our collective history,” said Benson-Awoyinka. “It is a celebration of the resilience, identity, and creative spirit of Afro-Brazilian returnees who blended samba rhythms, Catholic influences, and street performance into what evolved as the Fancy Carnival.”

The Commissioner highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to preserving cultural heritage through community-led initiatives and projects such as the citywide heritage plaque program. “As Lagos continues to grow and modernize, our cultural stories must not be lost. These plaques, embedded with QR codes, will preserve and share the stories of sites and traditions that shaped our city,” she explained.

She expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support and visionary leadership in promoting the state’s cultural and tourism sectors. “The revival of the Lagos Fanti Carnival is a testament to the Governor’s enduring commitment to celebrating our heritage and fostering inclusive cultural development. His leadership has been instrumental in repositioning Lagos as a global cultural hub,” she noted.

In his remarks, the Consul General of Brazil in Lagos.

04/04/2025

US Consul General Hosts Reception in Honour of the 17th Headies Awards

The United States Consulate hosted an exclusive reception in honour of the 17th Headies Awards at the Consular Residence on Modupe Alakija Crescent, Ikoyi, on Thursday.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs T**e Benson-Awoyinka expressed her excitement and pleasure that the Headies had returned to Lagos, reaffirming the city's status as the entertainment hub of Nigeria. She reiterated the commitment of the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to develop and elevate the creative industry. She also emphasized the state's role in facilitating the return of the prestigious award ceremony to its home base.

On his part, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Richard Mills Jr. expressed his appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its continuous support of the creative sector. He highlighted the collaboration between the U.S. firms and the Nigerian music industry, acknowledging the global recognition of Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and Tems. The ambassador also commended the founder of the Headies, Mr Ayo Animasaun, for his resilience, dedication, and commitment to hosting the event annually.

Furthermore, he spoke about the ongoing collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Nigeria to support musical development, including initiatives that have provided training opportunities for young Nigerian creatives in the United States.

In his remarks, Mr Ayo Animasaun expressed profound gratitude to the Lagos State Government and other key sponsors, stating that their support made it possible to successfully host the Headies Awards.

The event featured high-energy performances from various musical acts, including Beriola and Joel Brown. A major highlight of the evening was popular businessman Cubana Chief Priest performing his new track for the first time alongside Joel Brown.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, renowned actor Femi Adebayo, and other key stakeholders in the Nigerian music indu

01/03/2025

Tokyo James Fashion Show

The Lagos State Government is taking bold steps to strengthen its creative economy, with a special focus on the fashion industry. This was evident at the recently held Tokyo James Fashion Show at Vici Restaurant, Victoria Island.

Top government officials, including the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. T**e Benson-Awoyinka, and the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting fashion as a key driver of economic growth and cultural influence.

With a mix of local and international fashion enthusiasts, industry leaders, and celebrities like Fireboy and DJ Spinall in attendance, the event showcased Nigerian fashion’s global appeal.

The Lagos State Government is fostering a vibrant intersection of fashion, arts, and commerce by championing initiatives like the Tokyo James Fashion Show, which aligns with the broader vision for economic diversification, job creation, and global cultural relevance.

28/02/2025

Lagos Tourism Commissioner Calls for Stronger Partnerships to Elevate Hospitality Industry

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. T**e Benson-Awoyinka, reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to driving growth in the hospitality sector.

While speaking at the Institute of Hospitality (UK), Nigeria Region's Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Radisson Blu, Victoria Island, recently, Benson-Awoyinka emphasized the importance of strategic collaborations between the government and private sector in positioning Lagos as Africa’s premier tourism and hospitality destination.

She noted that a thriving hospitality industry is built on strong partnerships, professional excellence, and continuous innovation, adding that the administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu is working tirelessly to create an enabling environment through capacity-building programs, regulatory reforms, and investments in tourism infrastructure.

Recognizing the Institute of Hospitality’s role in shaping industry professionals, the commissioner commended its efforts in mentorship and skills development, urging members to continue fostering a culture of excellence.

Mr. Femi Falebita, President of the Institute of Hospitality Nigeria, in his remarks, called on industry stakeholders to embrace a shared responsibility in advancing the sector.

He said: "We must think beyond short-term gains and focus on building a resilient industry that future generations can inherit with pride. This means prioritizing skills development, ethical leadership, and professional standards."

While acknowledging the financial challenges confronting the industry, Mr. Falebita remained optimistic about the Institute’s ability to attract strategic sponsorships and partnerships that align with its mission.

"Our priority is not just financial growth, but the empowerment of hospitality professionals through continuous learning and leadership development," he affirmed.

Adding to the discourse, veteran hospitality expert Mr. Gbenga Sunmonu delivered an insightful goodwill message, where he stressed the critical role of leadership in driving industry transformation...

24/02/2025

07/02/2025

It was wonderful meeting and seeing the readiness of Lagos in hosting the HM Trade and Investments and the IATF team . Surely the time is now and WHY NOT LAGOS!!

06/02/2025

The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs T**e Benson-Awoyinka on Wednesday hosted Mr Ayo Shonaiya and renowned photographer Dayo Adedayo on a courtesy visit. The purpose of the visit was to discuss potential collaboration with the Ministry for the upcoming Réunion Weekend.

The event aims to bring Nigerians from the UK and USA back home for an unforgettable experience of music, culture, and entertainment in Lagos during the next Detty December.

In her response, the Commissioner reaffirmed Lagos commitment to positioning the city as Africa’s top entertainment destination, stating, “Lagos is the heartbeat of entertainment, and Detty December 2025 will be bigger and better.”

With Lagos at the centre of Africa’s biggest Detty December festivities, Réunion Weekend is set to be a major highlight.

04/02/2025

The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs T**e Benson-Awoyinka, received renowned DJ Spinall on a courtesy visit to her office on Tuesday.

DJ Spinall, a celebrated disc jockey, has had an illustrious career spanning several decades, marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements. As a trailblazer in the industry, he has set remarkable milestones, paving the way for emerging talents and inspiring the next generation of DJs.

While welcoming DJ Spinal, the Commissioner commended his contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s music and entertainment industry, particularly his role in taking Afrobeats to the global stage. She emphasized the importance of celebrating and supporting creatives who continue to showcase Lagos as the epicentre of entertainment in Africa.

Benson-Awoyinka also reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to fostering collaborations that will further position Lagos as a leading hub for talent, innovation, and cultural excellence.