94,541 Visitors Storm Lagos Heritage Sites In 1 Year

Fresh facts have emerged that over 94,541 visitors visited major heritage and cultural sites managed by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in one year, giving credence to the state government’s claim that it has become a leading tourism and cultural destination in Africa.

The state’s commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, disclosed this during the 2026 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja.

According to her, the impressive figures reflected the Sanwo-Olu administration’s sustained investment in tourism, heritage preservation, arts and culture as drivers of economic growth and global visibility.

Benson-Awoyinka explained that visitor statistics released by the ministry showed that the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History recorded the highest turnout, with 56,040 visitors.

She described the facility as a world-class cultural hub dedicated to preserving and showcasing Yoruba heritage, traditions, historical narratives, and artefacts through immersive experiences.

The Badagry Heritage Museum attracted 10,908 visitors during the period under review.

Benson-Awoyinka noted that the museum remains one of Nigeria’s most important historical sites, preserving the memory of the transatlantic slave trade and Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage.

Freedom Park, Lagos, also recorded 27,593 visitors, further reinforcing its status as a major cultural and recreational landmark in the state.

The Commissioner explained that the former colonial prison has evolved into a vibrant centre for arts, entertainment, exhibitions, concerts, and historical reflection on Nigeria’s journey to independence.

She stated that the increasing visitor numbers highlighted the growing interest of both local and international tourists in Lagos ‘ cultural and heritage assets.

“Nigeria’s commercial and cultural capital, Lagos, continues to distinguish itself not only as a tourism destination but also as a dynamic economic hub driven by innovation, creativity, trade, and a thriving entertainment industry,” she said.

Benson-Awoyinka added that initiatives such as the Lagos Fanti Carnival and other tourism programmes introduced by the State Government were contributing significantly to cultural promotion, economic development, and international visibility.

She reiterated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to leveraging tourism and culture as strategic tools for sustainable development, job creation, and the strengthening of Lagos ‘ global reputation as Africa’s entertainment and tourism capital.