Indications have emerged that the tourism sector contributes N4.1 trillion to the gross domestic product (GDP) of Lagos State.
This was disclosed by the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal, who was a lead panelist/presenter at the World Tourism Day celebration organised yesterday by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
He said the tourism sector contributes 10 per cent to the state’s GDP annually.
It would be recalled that the state’s commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Ope George recently revealed that its GDP has moved from N27trn to N41 trillion within four years of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
The former commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems in the state in the World Tourism Day celebration with the theme, “Tourism and Peace,” said “Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, has immense potential in the tourism sector. The city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful beachfronts attract tourists from around the world. However, the tourism sector in Lagos faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and security of property rights concerns.
“Efforts to address these challenges have included investments in infrastructure and security enhancements, creating a more conducive environment for tourism.
“Educational initiatives targeting youth have also been implemented, focusing on hospitality training and cultural education. These initiatives have created job opportunities for young people, reducing unemployment and fostering social cohesion.”
Also at the event, the state commissioner for Tourism, Arts Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, affirmed that Lagos was not only committed to promoting tourism as an economic driver but also as a tool for fostering peace.
Benson-Awoyinka said that this year’s theme is timely and significant as it allows people “to reflect on how tourism, beyond being a tool for economic development, serves as a bridge for peace, understanding and unity among people and nations.
“Lagos, as a dynamic hub of culture and commerce, understands the power of tourism in building not only an inclusive society but a peaceful one,” she said adding that through tourism, people “are able to connect with the world, break down cultural barriers and offer a platform where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated.”
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