By Kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to reposition its tourism sector for global competitiveness, as top officials embarked on a strategic two-day working tour of key historical and cultural sites in the Republic of Benin.
The delegation, led by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, included the Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Solomon Bonu; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works, Adekunle Olayinka; and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila.
Also on the tour were senior management officials of the ministry and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sageto Nigeria Limited, Salim Abou Jaoude, alongside other delegates.
The study visit, which took place between March 17 and 18, 2026, saw the delegation travel from Badagry to Cotonou, with a major focus on Ouidah—a historic town renowned for its deep-rooted connections to the transatlantic slave trade.
During the tour, the Lagos officials visited globally recognised heritage sites such as the Point of No Return, the Ouidah Slave Market, and the iconic Amazon Statue. These locations, central to the narrative of the transatlantic slave trade, provided the delegation with firsthand exposure to how history is preserved and presented to international audiences.
Findings from the tour are expected to influence ongoing efforts to transform Badagry into a leading heritage tourism destination, given its historical significance as a major slave trade route in West Africa.
Officials noted that the visit underscored the importance of adopting global best practices in heritage preservation, storytelling, and immersive tourism experiences. The exposure is also expected to shape policy direction, infrastructure development, and stakeholder collaboration within Lagos’ tourism ecosystem.
The initiative reflects Lagos State’s broader agenda to leverage its rich cultural assets for economic growth, while strengthening cultural diplomacy ties with neighbouring countries such as Benin Republic.
Analysts say such cross-border collaborations could unlock new opportunities for regional tourism circuits, positioning West Africa as a compelling destination for diaspora engagement and historical tourism.
The tour ultimately signals a renewed commitment by the Lagos State Government to elevate its tourism offerings to international standards, while preserving the shared history that binds the region.
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