Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has
assured people of the State that his administration is putting in place
strategies to develop the tourism and hospitality potentials available in the
five administrative divisions of the State.
Mr. Ambode stated this recently at the Airport Hotel,
Ikeja,during the second festival colloquium organized by the Ikeja Division
planning committee for the “Lagos @50” celebrations, canvassing for the
development of the hidden culture and heritage of Lagos State.
The Governor, who was represented by his Special
Adviser on Housing, Mrs Aramide Giwanson, said the forthcoming celebration is
certainly not about glamour or razzmatazz, but to elevate and promote the rich
potential of Lagos cultural heritage.
According to him, Lagos @ 50 is a veritable takeoff
point to achieve the goal of enhancing the investment and job creation opportunities
available in the tourism and hospitality sector in Lagos State, adding that,
“we have a very rich culture repertoire of traditional and cultural activities
which will be in full display during the period. I am sure the youth, who are
at the center of our development agenda, will be opportune to experience and
key-in to the rich background of Lagos and the reason for the appellation
of `Eko for show`.”
In her remarks, Special Adviser to the Governor on
Arts and Culture, Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola, who was the Special Guest of Honour
at the event, urged parents to communicate with their wards in their indigenous
languages because culture cannot be separated from language and that any nation
that loses her culture loses her identity.
Also speaking at the colloquium, themed “Hidden
Cultures and Multiple Identities in Lagos”, Dr. Wale Adeniran pointed out there
are lots of hidden heritages and cultures across Lagos metropolis, especially
in Badagry axis of the State, stressing the need for the State and Federal
governments to develop a world class tourist attraction in Badagry and make
Lagos a preferred tourist destination while further deepening the state
internal revenue generation base.
The celebration of “Lagos @ 50” is to further showcase
the progress and development of the State since its creation and project the
potentials for its development. The colloquium was attended by dignitaries from
all parts of the State, while various traditional and cultural activities were
displayed to the admiration of the guests.
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