N8.5 Billion Spent on Cultural Festivals by LASG: Supporting Tradition and Tourism

The Lagos State Government reports that it has invested over N8.5 billion in supporting more than 143 cultural festivals, creative programs, and tourism-related projects during the last year.

According to Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the state’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, this was stated during the 2025 Ministerial Press Conference held on Wednesday. The event marked the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

Benson-Awoyinka stated that this funding supports the fifth pillar of the administration’s THEMES Plus initiative, where "Entertainment and Tourism" is recognized as a crucial area for expanding the economy, empowering young people, and fostering cultural growth.

"The ministry, via the Creative Arts Department, has supported more than 143 festivals, events, and programs since May 2024, allocating roughly N8,475,238,265.00 for this purpose," she stated.

She revealed that the ministry provided endorsement letters to over 124 creatives, allowing them to pursue sponsorships for their individual initiatives.

The commissioner stated that this significant investment shows the state government's dedication to establishing Lagos as the foremost center for arts, culture, and entertainment in Africa.

She mentioned that the backed projects spanned various fields such as local festivities, cultural presentations, leisure activities, style weeks, visual arts displays, professional meet-ups, young adult development forums, and international travel symposiums.

"Every initiative plays a crucial role in safeguarding culture, boosting the economy, generating jobs, attracting tourists, and increasing international media coverage — thereby strengthening Lagos's image as a thriving center for creativity and one of Africa's most lively cultural hubs," she noted.

Benson-Awoyinka further declared that aiming to develop a globally competitive creative sector, the ministry has established key collaborations with four prominent creative institutions. These partnerships will offer top-tier education and enhance the capabilities of young inhabitants throughout Lagos State.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

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