LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT SEEKS VIBRANT SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS TO BOOST TOURISM, CREATE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS FIVE DIVISIONS

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, has invited event organisers, promoters, creatives, hospitality operators, cultural institutions and other industry stakeholders to submit entries for seasonal activities and celebrations scheduled to take place across the state.

The initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to develop a vibrant, inclusive and well-coordinated calendar of events that will showcase Lagos as a leading destination for tourism, entertainment, arts, culture and hospitality in Africa.

The call for entries covers various festive and celebration periods, including Christmas, New Year, Easter, Eid celebrations, Independence Day and other cultural seasons, providing opportunities for stakeholders to showcase their creativity, attract wider audiences and contribute to the state’s growing tourism economy.

Speaking on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at her office in Alausa, Ikeja, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, explained that the initiative is designed to harmonise seasonal activities across Lagos, enhance visibility for event organisers and create greater economic benefits for stakeholders.

According to the Commissioner, the state government is committed to bringing together the numerous celebrations and entertainment activities taking place across Lagos under a coordinated platform that will strengthen the state’s tourism appeal.

“Lagos thrives on celebrations. As a Ministry, we want to harmonise all seasonal activities happening across the State to ensure visibility, wider participation and economic benefits for our stakeholders. This platform will allow event owners to leverage the State’s promotional machinery and reach a larger audience,” she stated.

FIVE DIVISIONS OF LAGOS TO BENEFIT FROM SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

The initiative is expected to promote tourism and cultural experiences across the five divisions of Lagos State: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.

By encouraging activities across these divisions, the government aims to create more opportunities for residents, visitors, businesses, creatives and hospitality operators to participate in the state’s tourism and entertainment offerings.

The programme also presents an opportunity to highlight the diverse cultural heritage, historical attractions, waterfront destinations, local cuisines, artistic talents and recreational opportunities that make Lagos a unique destination for visitors.

From traditional festivals and colourful carnivals to concerts, fashion exhibitions, food fairs and family-oriented celebrations, the initiative seeks to encourage activities that reflect the diversity, creativity and vibrant spirit of Lagos.

CATEGORIES OF EVENTS ELIGIBLE FOR SUBMISSION

Interested stakeholders are invited to submit proposals for a wide range of events and activities, including:

• Festivals and carnivals.
• Concerts and live musical performances.
• Theatre productions and comedy shows.
• Beach and waterfront activities.
• Food, fashion and lifestyle fairs.
• Art exhibitions and cultural showcases.
• Family-friendly and community-based events.
• Sports and recreational activities.

The Ministry is encouraging event organisers and other industry players to take advantage of the opportunity to bring forward innovative ideas capable of attracting local and international audiences while contributing to the state’s cultural and economic development.

SELECTED EVENTS TO RECEIVE GOVERNMENT PROMOTIONAL SUPPORT

As part of the initiative, the Commissioner disclosed that selected events would be featured on the official Lagos Tourism Calendar and promoted through the Ministry’s digital platforms.

Eligible events may also be considered for collaboration and logistical support, where applicable.

The initiative is expected to improve the visibility of approved events, enable organisers to reach broader audiences and strengthen coordination among stakeholders in the tourism, arts, culture, entertainment and hospitality sectors.

For event organisers, this presents an opportunity to connect their activities with the state’s broader tourism promotion efforts, potentially attracting more visitors, increasing patronage and creating business opportunities.

The programme also aligns with the broader objective of positioning Lagos as a destination where culture, entertainment, recreation and hospitality contribute meaningfully to economic growth and job creation.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES FOR INTERESTED STAKEHOLDERS

All interested organisers and stakeholders are required to provide the following information when submitting their proposals:

1. Name of Event/Activity: The official name of the proposed event.
2. Brief Description and Objectives: An outline of the event, its purpose and expected outcomes.
3. Proposed Date(s) and Venue: The planned dates and location of the activity.
4. Target Audience: The group of people the event is designed to attract.
5. Organiser’s Contact Details: Valid contact information for further communication.

WHERE TO SUBMIT ENTRIES

Proposals should be forwarded to:

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
The Secretariat, Block 10, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State.

Email addresses:

• olajumokejames@gmail.com
• bolanleasuquo@gmail.com
• senimaks@yahoo.co.uk

Contact phone: 08023232068

Submission deadline: Entries remain open ahead of each seasonal period. Early submission is strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for planning, coordination and publicity.

A NEW OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE LAGOS THROUGH CULTURE AND CELEBRATION

The call for entries reinforces the Lagos State Government’s commitment to creating a more organised and engaging tourism environment in which event organisers, cultural practitioners, entertainers, hospitality businesses and communities can contribute to the state’s growing reputation as a centre for entertainment and cultural expression.

Through increased collaboration with stakeholders, the Ministry aims to ensure that seasonal celebrations deliver memorable experiences for residents and visitors while supporting local businesses and promoting the rich cultural identity of Lagos.

Event organisers, creatives, promoters and other relevant stakeholders are therefore encouraged to submit their proposals early and become part of the state’s efforts to build a more vibrant and inclusive tourism calendar.

With its rich cultural heritage, energetic entertainment industry and diverse communities, Lagos continues to present opportunities for celebrations that bring people together, promote local talent and stimulate economic activity across the state.

Lagos is ready to celebrate, showcase its creativity and welcome the world through its rich diversity of seasonal events and cultural experiences.