The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting tourism and cultural initiatives that showcase the state’s creativity, lifestyle and economic potential to a global audience.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, gave the assurance on Thursday, September 3, 2026, when she received the organisers of the Victoria Island Carnival during a courtesy visit ahead of the inaugural edition of the event.
The delegation, led by the carnival’s founder, Mr Abiodun Ayorinde, included the Grand Patron, Mr Princewill Utchay; a partner, Mr Zayn Godwill; and veteran musician, Tee Mac.
During the meeting, the organisers presented the concept and vision of the carnival, describing it as a tourism and cultural initiative aimed at celebrating Lagos’ distinctive lifestyle, entertainment, hospitality, business and creative sectors.
The inaugural Victoria Island Carnival is scheduled to hold from September 14 to 20, 2026, in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The week-long event is expected to feature music, fashion, arts, food, tourism, business and community engagement, with a focus on celebrating African creativity and contemporary urban culture.
Benson-Awoyinka commended the organisers for developing an initiative that aligns with the state government’s efforts to leverage tourism, arts and culture to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities and strengthen Lagos’ position on the global tourism and creative economy map.
She said the diversity and dynamism of Lagos provide a strong foundation for tourism experiences capable of attracting visitors, investors and creatives from within and outside Nigeria.
“Lagos is Nigeria’s tourism and entertainment capital, and initiatives such as the Victoria Island Carnival provide another platform to showcase the energy, creativity and cultural richness that make our State unique,” she said.
The commissioner assured the delegation that the ministry was willing to collaborate with the organisers within its mandate to facilitate a successful carnival.
She, however, urged the organisers to maintain high standards of organisation, safety, professionalism and presentation, stressing that events of such scale must reflect the quality and reputation associated with Lagos.
Earlier, Ayorinde and other members of the delegation expressed their commitment to delivering a world-class carnival that would create opportunities for local talents, businesses, hospitality operators, creatives and communities.
The carnival is expected to attract tourists, investors, creatives, businesses and residents while providing opportunities for cultural exchange, entertainment and economic engagement.
