The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, led a delegation on a two-day working tour from Badagry to Cotonou, Republic of Benin, aimed at strengthening heritage preservation and tourism development.
Eko Hot News reports that the team included the Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Solomon Bonu, Special Adviser on Works, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, Permanent Secretary, Mrs Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, management officers, and other stakeholders, including the CEO of Sageto Nigeria Limited, Engr. Salim Abou Jaoude.
The delegation toured historical sites in Ouidah, such as the Point of No Return, the Slave Market, and the Amazon Statue, gaining insights into global best practices for heritage tourism and immersive cultural experiences.
The tour focused on leveraging historical landmarks in Badagry, a key site in the transatlantic slave trade, to enhance tourism and promote cultural diplomacy.
Officials emphasised the importance of preserving shared history while creating engaging experiences that meet international tourism standards.
The exercise also provided an opportunity for Lagos State tourism officials to exchange knowledge with counterparts in Benin, identifying strategies for sustainable tourism growth.
By observing how heritage sites are managed abroad, the delegation aims to implement similar initiatives in Lagos, ensuring cultural sites are maintained and presented effectively to visitors.
The tour reflects Lagos State’s commitment to enhancing its tourism sector, promoting cultural awareness, and positioning the state as a leading destination for historical and heritage tourism in Africa.
Officials noted that ongoing collaborations and capacity-building initiatives would support heritage site development, community engagement, and tourism promotion.
The visit concluded with plans to integrate the lessons learned into Lagos State’s tourism strategy, ensuring that both domestic and international visitors enjoy quality cultural experiences.
Lagos State continues to prioritise tourism as a driver of economic growth, heritage preservation, and international cultural exchange.
