Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has said Lagos has the potential to compete with some of the world’s leading tourism destinations if its cultural and creative assets are properly harnessed.

Mohammed made the statement during a visit by members of the Eko Tourism Foundation to the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art at Pan-Atlantic University in Lagos, where he stressed the importance of preserving heritage and promoting culture as tools for economic growth and international visibility.

According to him, Lagos possesses the artistic, historical and entertainment resources required to stand alongside major tourism cities across the world. He noted that the state’s strengths in music, film, fashion, cuisine and visual arts place it in a strong position to attract global tourists and investors.

The former minister described culture as the backbone of tourism, adding that museums and cultural institutions remain critical to preserving identity and showcasing a people’s heritage to the world.

He also described the Yemisi Shyllon Museum as a symbol of cultural preservation and national pride, commending efforts aimed at strengthening tourism through the promotion of arts and history.

Mohammed, who chairs the Eko Tourism Foundation, said the organisation is committed to positioning Lagos as a global tourism and cultural hub. He added that the vision is to attract visitors not only through business opportunities and beaches, but also through the city’s vibrant creative industry and entertainment scene.

He further highlighted the growing popularity of Lagos’ “Detty December” festivities, saying the annual celebrations have continued to draw international attention and visitors to Nigeria’s commercial capital.

Speaking at the event, Adedotun Sulaiman, chairman of the museum’s advisory council, pledged support for partnerships that would boost tourism development in Lagos and preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Stakeholders at the gathering noted that stronger collaboration between government, private investors and cultural institutions would be essential in transforming Lagos into a globally recognised tourism destination.