Opinion

The fresh push for tourism in Lagos

Published

12 months ago

January 22, 2024

IN contemporary time, tourism can be clearly defined as the new socio-economic game changer. The economic potential of tourism is remarkable, with direct and indirect impact on wealth creation. Cities like Bangkok, London, Paris, Nairobi, Dubai and New York City are top global tourists’ destinations. African countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt and South Africa are vigorously tapping into the expansive global tourism market.

However, in Nigeria, tourism is still in its infancy. This is largely due to years of the oil boom and over-dependence on the revenue from the sale of crude oil as well as weak infrastructure. However, in Lagos State, the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is creatively making efforts to tap into the state’s enormous tourism potential.

Since his first term in office, Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated a strong resolve to reposition the tourism and entertainment industry in the state. This is based on his conviction that, if properly structured, the sector has huge potential for wealth and job creation. This, of course, is a stark reality. In America, for instance, the entertainment industry is a multi-billion dollar enterprise, creating jobs for thousands of young creative minds. Being the entertainment capital of the country, developing the sector not only holds a brighter prospect for Lagos, but the country at large.

To properly achieve this, the government has prepared a tourism master plan that will steer the state’s tourism potential. The document focuses on culture and heritage, film, art and entertainment, business tourism, nature and adventure, medical and wellness and beach and leisure.

An integral part of the government’s plan to further develop the sector is the Lagos State Creative Industry Initiative (LACI), a partnership between the government and Film Academies like Delyork Creative Academy, Temple Group-Ogidi Studio and Ebony Life Film Academy among others.

Till date, the partnership has produced over 8000 graduates with the likes of Genoveva Umeh, Moshood Fattah, Desmond Bryce, Obinna James, Promise Egwu, Peter Joshua and Hannah Sampson among others becoming the newest super stars in the sector. After the pandemic, the government supported the sector with a N1 billion naira interest free grant, which was accessed by several film producers.

The essence is to ensure that the sector remains vibrant and productive. A N200 million interest-free loan was also granted to the first batch of 50 film-maker. The government has also put structures in place to manage and creatively market some iconic tourist sites in the state. This is in addition to the completion of the J.K Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture, Onikan, Lagos as well as the commissioning of the New Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos.

Lufodo Productions, co-founded by veteran actress, Mrs. Joke Silva-Jacobs, was engaged as the concessionaire to professionally manage the Glover Hall. In order to fully leverage on the potential of the movie industry in the stare, the government, in partnership with Del-York International Group, has performed the ground breaking ceremony of the $100 million dollar Lagos Film City in Ejinrin, Epe.

The proposed 100-hectare Film City will be a total hub for movie production; it’s not just about studios. It is a testament to the government’s commitment to nurturing the arts and supporting the dreams of aspiring filmmakers, actors, and technicians. It will create numerous job opportunities, stimulate economic growth and attract investments.

It will be a hub for film production, post-production, visual effects, and all the ancillary services that support the film-making process. It is envisioned to be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, sound stages, editing suites, production offices, and everything necessary to bring the magic of the silver screen to life. It is designed to be a one-stop-hub for movie production.

In New York, the movie industry creates 185,000 jobs annually, $18.1B in wages and $81.6B in total economic output. Thus, the Lagos Film City project is part of the all-inclusive firm efforts of the government to further enhance the growth of the industry and boost local economy. Another integral part of the strategies being deployed to develop the sector is the improvement of the night economy. A 24-hour economy is one in which socioeconomic activities do not halt at night.

The hospitality and entertainment industries, in particular, thrive better in such scenarios. Presently, Lagos boasts of a relatively thriving night economy. In terms of crime management and security, night activities in Lagos have become relatively stable. As part of the government’s resolve to develop the state’s night economy potential, the 2023 ‘Greater Lagos Fiesta’, the annual event to usher in the New Year, took place simultaneously in five different locations across the state for 72 hours, from 29th of December, 2023 to the 1st January, 2024. The event, with an estimated 300,000 participants, positively impacted the state’s economy through massive sales of goods and services to thousands of fun and entertainment lovers.

One of the major takeaways of the Fiesta was its near perfect security arrangement. Cheerfully, the government is not resting on its oars as the long term plan is to create a vibrant and safer Lagos that offers something for everyone – from a street bar with live music, a mechanic service, fashion businesses, to an all-hours bookshop. In the next ten years, it is expected that the state’s economy will be transformed away from a focus on younger people and entertainment.

It is hoped that 40 per cent of people taking advantage of the improved 24/7 activities in the state will be aged over 40 and that 40 per cent of operating businesses at this time will be chiefly anchored on formal business concerns.This is why the government is encouraging a larger variety of retailers and attractions to stay open late, to broaden people’s choices of things to do at night. By 2028, the state hopes to double its 24/7 economy turnover and increase employment by 55% through the creation of several new jobs.

There is, perhaps, no better way to promote tourism than current efforts aimed at improving infrastructure across the state. Infrastructure is quite essential to the growth of tourism as any visible defect in infrastructure will surely dissuade tourists.

Hence, on-going efforts to change the face of public transportation through the provision of more jetties as well as expansion of access to waterways, construction and rehabilitation of roads and bridges, construction of modern bus terminals among others are principally engendered by the need to build and sustain the needed infrastructure upon which enduring tourism pillars can stand. Lagos is not only the commercial nerve of Africa, it is the birthplace of Nollywood and the location of a majority of the cinemas in Nigeria.

Therefore, the efforts of the Sanwo-Olu administration in boosting tourism activities in the state is in the right direction. However, in order to entirely optimize the potentials of the tourism sector, it is crucial to train personnel such as tour guides to enhance their professionalism. In Israel, for instance, tour guides are so efficient, passionate and so enthusiastic that they make tourists feel immensely excited and somehow fulfilled.

Also, there is a need to produce well researched and competently produced tourists guidebooks, which prospective tourists could find handy when they plan or decide to visit. This could be made available at major international and local airports across the world as well as other channels.

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Opinion

Ondo monarch calls for tourism investment to boost Nigerian economy

Published

3 months ago

October 28, 2024

Lanre

Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, Owa Ale of Ikareland, urges Nigerian leaders to prioritise tourism investment for economic growth and cultural preservation.

The Owa Ale of Ikareland, Adeleke Adegbite-Adedoyin, has called on Nigerian government leaders to strengthen the country’s tourism sector, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth.

Addressing attendees at the 2024 Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival in Ikare, Ondo State, he urged federal, state, and local governments to promote tourism as a sustainable source of employment and revenue generation.

Also read: Ondo Governor celebrates Ulefunta festival to drive economic growth

Speaking at the annual festival, which drew visitors from within Nigeria and abroad, the monarch underscored the economic and cultural benefits of tourism, describing festivals as vital for fostering local pride and identity.

“Our culture is our pride. Government support in tourism investment would not only generate revenue and employment but also enhance our economy,” he remarked.

The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Hill, the festival’s focus, holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of resilience and protection for the Ikare people, dating back to times of inter-tribal conflict.

The monarch lamented that Nigeria often overlooks its heritage in favour of Western influences, stressing that cultural preservation is essential for national identity.

Highlighting the growing interest in Yoruba cultural festivals, he praised the community’s dedication to revitalising local heritage, which he said was evident in the large turnout and enthusiasm at this year’s festival.

A tourist, Peter Ijigbo, also spoke passionately about the cultural importance of such festivals. “Despite my faith as a Christian, this is our heritage, and we cannot turn our backs on it.

I visited last year, and this festival has always been a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for us,” he said.

The Olokemeji Tako-Tabo Festival and similar events in Nigeria offer promising avenues for both economic growth and cultural preservation.

With strategic investments and support, Nigeria’s tourism sector could serve as a significant pillar of the national economy, providing jobs, fostering community engagement, and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage.

Opinion

Stakeholders urge sustainable tourism plans for Nigeria

Published

4 months ago

September 30, 2024

Lanre

At a World Tourism Day event in Abuja, stakeholders called for sustainable tourism plans to protect Nigeria’s natural and cultural resources, support local economies, and enhance visitor experiences. They stressed the importance of clean environments, such as Jabi Lake, to boost tourism and create economic opportunities, while minimising environmental harm.

Stakeholders in Nigeria have emphasised the need for sustainable tourism strategies to protect the country’s natural and cultural resources, boost local economies, and improve visitor experiences.

This call came during a press briefing held to commemorate World Tourism Day in Abuja, following a clean-up exercise at Jabi Lake.

Also read: Nigeria eyes N12.3 trillion tourism gains by 2032, 2.6 million jobs expected

The event was organised by the Eco Club, in collaboration with Jabi Boat Club, Jabi Mall, and Jabi Park.

World Tourism Day, observed annually on 27 September, highlights the significance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.

The theme for 2024, *Tourism and Peace*, underscores the role of tourism in fostering global understanding and reconciliation.

Speaking at the event, Aisha Yusuf, Creative Director of Hayche Network and Senior Special Adviser on Sustainable and Accessible Tourism to the Executive Director of Tourism Volunteer Network, advocated for sustainable solutions to maintain tourism in Nigeria.

“We need to create awareness about sustainable tourism and take ownership of keeping our environment clean,” she stated, calling for both individual and government action to protect destinations like Jabi Lake.

Omoefe Tawiyah, Managing Director of Platinum X Media and organiser of *Abuja I Believe*, highlighted the economic benefits of a clean and well-maintained Jabi Lake, noting its potential to attract significant tourism investments.

He remarked, “If properly cleaned, Jabi Lake will become a key destination for tourists and boost the Federal Capital Territory’s economy.”

Phil Roberts, Executive Director of Tourism Volunteers Network, urged for turning Abuja into a tourism hub. He highlighted the need to enhance infrastructure tourism, which complements natural beauty by developing facilities that attract and sustain tourists.

“Abuja has numerous tourist sites, and Jabi Lake can become a major tourism destination with the right investment and infrastructure,” Roberts explained.

The speakers agreed that preserving the environment is essential for sustainable tourism growth, which can contribute to job creation, economic development, and peacebuilding.

Opinion

Nigeria’s 1,091 Tourist Sites Undergoing Revitalisation -Minister

Published

5 months ago

September 3, 2024

Lanre

Ms. Lola Ade -John, Minister of Tourism, has said that Nigeria has 1,091 tourist sites across the 36 States of the Federation, adding that many of these tourist sites are currently being revitalised.

Ade-John, who stated this at a pre-summit webinar in preparation for the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30), organised by the Tourism and Hospitality Industries Thematic Group (THITG) of the Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment, Creatives, Culture, and Sports Industries Policy Commission (THECCSPC) of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG),

highlighted the importance of domestic tourism to Nigeria’s future.

She noted that these notable sites include Obudu, Ogbunike, Osun-Osogbo Grove, Kajuru Castle, and Yankari Games Reserve, which are improving in terms of historic architecture, wildlife conservation, and ecotourism efforts.

She explained that the shifting of attention by the Federal Government to domestic tourism, would provide significant job opportunities for rural communities.

She noted that in 2022, the tourism sector contributed 17.3 billion Naira to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP), compared to 7.5% of GDP in France.

The minister further stated that Nigeria also hosts 814 festivals across 774 locations, offering rich cultural experiences.

Ade-John underscored the need for investment in domestic tourism to revitalise communities, spur entrepreneurship, and generate revenue, noting that the sector currently supports 1.9 million jobs but has significant growth potential.

In his welcome address, Mr. Udeme Ufot, Co-Chair of THECCSPC of NESG, emphasised that several factors have led Nigerians to favour domestic travel over international options since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ufot noted that safety and familiarity are key, as domestic destinations are perceived as safer due to better knowledge of local health and safety protocols.

He stated that reduced international mobility due to travel restrictions and global conflicts have made local destinations more accessible and convenient, noting that economic considerations also play a role; including the pandemic and political instability which have affected livelihoods, making domestic travel a more affordable option.

Ufot further expressed hope that the event would generate actionable recommendations to foster inclusive growth, potentially altering trade patterns, attracting investment and enhancing border stability across the continent.

During the panelists session, Mr. Folorunsho Coker, Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), spoke on the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP), community involvement, and sustainable funding models for promoting domestic tourism.

He noted that domestic tourism is six times the size of international tourism and is essential for addressing employment issues.

Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), discussed the role of media, arts, and culture in developing domestic tourism.

He highlighted the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to bridge capacity gaps and the importance of story-telling in attracting tourists.

Ms. Sade Hughes, Managing Director of MIXTA Hospitality Limited, emphasised the impact of innovative real estate and distinctive tourism experiences in revitalising domestic tourism.

She called for government investment in infrastructure and urged Nigerians to support local brands.

Ms. Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), stressed the need for government support in policy and infrastructure to develop Nigeria’s tourism sector.

Ms. Adenike Macaulay, Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow, pointed out that the interconnection between music, art, and tourism and the importance of clearly defining tourism attractions to stimulate the economy.

Ms. Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Fashion Week and Style House Files, shared how they have redefined Nigeria’s tourism through fashion and enhanced Lagos nightlife, using fashion week as a tool for ecotourism.

The theme of the webinar was “Domestic Tourism: A Powerful Tool for Rural Revitalisation and Economic Growth in Nigeria.”