“Innovative regional leaders are getting back to basics. Any business that attracts money from outside the region tends to improve prosperity within the region. These traded businesses include tourism. ” -Ed Morrison

Tourism in Nigeria suffers from many factors; bad roads, poor electricity, sub standard hotels, lack of maintenance of many tourist attractions and so on. Upon the realization of the importance tourism adds to a nation’s revenue, Lagos state has decided to introduce new ways to improve the tourism sector. One of which is launching a tourism calendar to keep people abreast of tourism related events and festivals happening throughout the year.
 

When it comes to embracing innovations, technology, entertainment, creativity, etc. Lagos State is right in front of the line. No other State in Nigeria comes close. With the calendar, tourists can access and have updated information on every event happening in the state. 

THE UNVEILING

The Lagos state commissioner for culture and tourism, Mr Steve Ayorinde at the recently concluded Tourism Innovation and Development Advantage, TIDA, disclosed this information to stakeholders in the industry.
 

“This is the first of its kind; the calendar will show plans, venues and dates of festivals, carnivals and conferences. It will also provide guides on how tourists, visitors and the public can enjoy such events. There is a lot we can do if we get a lot of mappings and communications right. Nigeria is a home of tourism and entertainment, but we are not ready for the business aspect of it, which includes availability of hotels in tourist locations. This is a harsh reality.”

He also stated that alongside other innovations, Lagos State is ready to put together a 15 year tourism master plan.
 

The Ogun state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Muyiwa Oladipo, was also present at the event. He expressed his disappointment in the current state of the industry and hoped things will get better.
 

“Tourism right now is nothing to write home about but in 5 to 10 years’ time, it will be celebrated and sought after. Tourism is the future of the Nigerian economy and if better harnessed, it will generate more revenue”

BENEFITS
 

Most countries have tourism event calendars and as a visitor, it helps put things in perspective. You can plan your vacation around festivals, concerts or events happening in that destination. For example, dates for events like Gidi Fest or concerts of your favorite artists will be beneficial to music and entertainment lovers. Lagos Fashion Week and GT Fashion week for fashion lovers and so on. 

Excited about the Lagos tourism calendar? We are! What events would you like to see? We are all for the fashion, music and food events! We also hope they create an app version of the calendar.