The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning the State’s beaches as hubs of sustainable tourism and investment, as preparations intensify for the 2025 World Tourism Day celebration.
On Monday, September 22, 2025, the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, led a delegation of top government officials and stakeholders on an inspection visit to Tarkwa Bay Beach, the official venue for this year’s celebration scheduled for Saturday, September 27.
Speaking during the visit, Benson-Awoyinka described Lagos as blessed with 183 kilometres of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, stretching to the Badagry creeks. She noted that these natural treasures remain underutilized despite their vast potential to compete with leading global tourist destinations.
“This year, the Ministry is spotlighting Lagos beaches. With the right infrastructure and sustainable investments, our beaches can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international resorts like Cancun and the Maldives. We are determined to transform them into world-class destinations that not only attract tourists but also empower our people,” the Commissioner stated.
She outlined the State Government’s plans to upgrade infrastructure, boost security, and expand ferry services for easy accessibility to Tarkwa Bay. She further disclosed that capacity-building programmes would be introduced to train youths from the host community as lifeguards, tour guides, and coastal guards — measures aimed at ensuring visitor safety while creating employment opportunities.
Benson-Awoyinka also underscored the importance of community collaboration, stressing that the active participation of local residents in environmental management, hospitality, and cultural promotion will be vital to sustaining Tarkwa Bay as a tourist destination.
In her remarks, the President of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, commended the Lagos State Government’s proactive measures, describing the focus on Tarkwa Bay as a strategic step toward repositioning Lagos beaches for both domestic and international visitors. She emphasized that infrastructure development, transportation improvements, and youth training are key to the project’s success.
The Beach Master of Tarkwa Bay, Mr. Tolulope Bradley, also expressed appreciation to the government, noting that the community had long awaited such interventions. He assured that residents would fully support the initiatives, especially in areas of environmental protection, seafood services, and enhanced safety measures.
The inspection tour also included discussions on improving the beach’s environmental standards, electricity supply, provision of local cuisines, and specialized training for security operatives to ensure smooth and secure visitor experiences.
📩 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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