Lagos State Sinks N8.47 Billion to Sponsor 143 Cultural Events, Festivals
The Lagos State Government has revealed that it has spent more than ₦8.47 billion sponsoring over 143 cultural events and festivals across the state.
The investment, according to officials, is aimed at preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage while positioning Lagos as a leading destination for tourism and creative economy in Nigeria and West Africa.
The disclosure was made in an official statement by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, as part of a performance report presented by state officials.
The statement highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local culture, empowering creatives, and using tourism as a vehicle for economic transformation.
“Lagos remains the cultural heartbeat of Nigeria and a center for creativity and innovation. Our administration has committed over ₦8.47 billion to support, sponsor, and promote more than 143 festivals and cultural events across various communities. This is not just about entertainment it’s about jobs, identity, and prosperity,” the statement read.
The government said the sponsored festivals cut across traditional, contemporary, and religious events, including iconic celebrations such as the Eyo Festival, Lagos Carnival, One Lagos Fiesta, Ojude Oba, Kayokayo Festival, and several others hosted by indigenous communities across the state.
By backing these events, the state government aims to empower local artisans, performers, event organizers, and vendors who benefit economically from the increased commercial activity generated during festival periods.
Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, noted that each festival also serves as a platform for talent discovery and youth engagement.
“These cultural platforms create seasonal employment opportunities and offer a space for Lagos youths to showcase their talents in music, fashion, art, and storytelling. They are also instrumental in strengthening communal ties and celebrating our diversity,” she added.
Lagos State has long maintained its status as Nigeria’s entertainment and cultural hub, drawing both local and international tourists. With the deliberate investment in culture, the state hopes to further grow its share of the global creative economy.
Officials said that in addition to boosting tourism receipts, the support for cultural events has helped foster international collaborations, improved local content production, and encouraged diaspora engagement.
According to the Ministry, the events have attracted tens of thousands of attendees yearly, including tourists, expatriates, and investors, further boosting hospitality, transport, and allied sectors.
