The Lagos State Government has called on tourism stakeholders to strengthen efforts to preserve the state’s environment, cultural heritage, arts, and tourism assets to attract more visitors and boost economic growth.
Speaking at a news conference organised by the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) ahead of its 10th Annual General Meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, urged tourism practitioners, cultural promoters, and residents to work together in protecting and promoting Nigeria’s unique cultural and natural attractions.
She stressed that tourism flourishes when communities value and showcase their traditions, food, arts, heritage, and natural resources, noting that Lagos remains Nigeria’s tourism capital with thriving sectors including entertainment, conferences, beach tourism, leisure, wellness, and adventure tourism.
Oyekan-Ismaila also praised NATOP for promoting Nigeria’s tourism destinations both locally and internationally. NATOP President, Bolaji Mustapha, said Lagos was selected to host the association’s landmark 10th AGM due to the state government’s strong commitment to tourism development.