If you’ve ever been to Lagos, you know it’s not just a city—it’s a vibe, a movement, a living, breathing entity that refuses to be ignored. And if you were in town for Detty December 2024, you’d know exactly what that means. The world didn’t just visit Lagos; it descended on it. Lagos was the stage, and the world was its audience.
But this wasn’t just a moment—it was a statement. A declaration that Lagos isn’t just Nigeria’s economic powerhouse; it’s Africa’s ultimate destination. And if you think that’s an exaggeration, just ask Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture. He’s not just witnessing this transformation—he’s one of the key figures orchestrating it.
When I sat down with Mr. Aregbe, one thing was clear: Lagos’s rise as a tourism juggernaut isn’t happening by chance. It’s part of a meticulously crafted vision that’s turning the city into a global cultural hub.
Interview by Ayo Lawal
Detty December 2024 was on another level. What made last year’s edition so unique?
First, let me say this—I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved last December. It felt like Lagos was on the global stage, and we showed up big time. That’s thanks to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose passion for Lagos is unmatched, and also to our President, a proud Lagosian, whose holiday visit further amplified the experience.
This year stood out for a few reasons. The media played a massive role, particularly digital content creators and entertainers who showcased Lagos’s vibrant tourism, arts, and culture to a global audience. Lagos has long been a creative powerhouse, but now, more than ever, the world is taking notice.
Another key factor? Infrastructure development. Investments in modern infrastructure by this administration elevated the Detty December experience. Our collaborations with event organizers, entertainers, and the hospitality industry created a seamless and exciting festive season. It was the collective effort of Lagosians and the government that made this an unforgettable experience.
Tourism is slowly becoming one of Nigeria’s biggest GDP contributors. How crucial is Lagos to this transformation?
Lagos is leading this transformation—it’s at the heart of Nigeria’s tourism boom. Think about it: Lagos is a melting pot of cultures, creativity, and commerce, and we are taking bold steps to strengthen our position. The entertainment scene, cultural richness, and world-class attractions are shaping Nigeria’s tourism landscape. We’ve also adopted a forward-thinking approach—working closely with stakeholders in hospitality, entertainment, and culture.
Every day, over 5,000 people are actively working in Lagos’s tourism sector—that’s how much we’ve built an enabling environment for this industry to thrive. Moving forward, we’ll continue analyzing data, gathering feedback, and developing new ideas to keep Lagos at the forefront of African tourism.
The Lagos Tour Bus was such a hit! How did this idea come about, and what’s next for it?
We launched the Lagos Tour Bus to give people an immersive experience of Lagos. We wanted to showcase the city’s hidden gems and encourage Lagosians to become ambassadors of their city. And the response? Incredible.
Because of its success, we’re making it a monthly program, but in a way that keeps it exclusive and exciting. So far, we’ve explored Lagos Island, Victoria Island, and Lekki, but future editions will take us to more local government areas. We’re even looking at incorporating waterways into the tour experience. In Lagos, the possibilities are as vast as the Atlantic Ocean itself!
You’ve often called Lagos the ‘heartbeat of Nigeria.’ What would you say is its soul?
The soul of Lagos is its people. We have an unmatched energy, a welcoming spirit, and an ability to make things happen against all odds. It’s a land of opportunities—people come here and don’t want to leave because they see potential everywhere. From the thriving entertainment and tech scenes to its modern infrastructure and commercial opportunities, there’s always something new to discover.
Lagos is a creative hub. How are you working with musicians, filmmakers, and artists to position it as Africa’s ultimate cultural capital?
We actively support both established and emerging creatives. We believe in their potential, and we create platforms for them to shine on a global stage. Through events like Entertainment Week Lagos, Flytime Fest, Dance Eko, Lagos International Theatre Festival, ArtX, Culturati Africa, and Greater Lagos Countdown, we’re shaping future leaders in the creative industry. Our government is fully committed to building an enabling environment for creatives to thrive.
Tourism thrives on accessibility. What’s being done to make Lagos more tourist-friendly?
We’re making major moves under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda. The Purple Rail Line is now running, complementing the Blue Rail Line, making movement easier. Omibus ferries are improving water transportation, the BRT system is expanding, and LagRide is becoming a go-to transport option.
At the same time, we’re upgrading tourist attractions like Freedom Park, ensuring Lagos is not just exciting but also convenient and accessible.
Safety is a big concern for visitors. What’s being done to ensure Lagos remains welcoming to tourists?
Security is a top priority. We’re bringing together agencies like the Lagos TaskForce, Neighbourhood Safety Corps, Lagos Police Command, and Civil Defence. Lagos attracts global attention, so we cannot afford to compromise on security.
But beyond the government, safety is a shared responsibility. We all have a role to play in making Lagos a safe and welcoming destination.
How is the government supporting local entrepreneurs in tourism-related industries like hospitality, fashion, and entertainment?
We offer exhibitions, contracts, loans, grants, and empowerment programs. Initiatives like the Lagos Shopping Festival, Eko Flavours, Lagos Creative Vault, and the Lagos International Trade Fair connect entrepreneurs with key partners. Other bodies, like the Ministry of Commerce and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, play major roles in supporting SMEs. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where businesses thrive.
When you think about Lagos in five to ten years, what’s your ultimate vision?
I see Lagos competing with and even surpassing cities like Paris, Dubai, and Bangkok as a top cultural, business, and leisure destination. We have what it takes—Afrobeat, Nollywood, fashion, festivals, food, and art—to captivate the world.
As for my legacy, I want Lagos tourism to be synonymous with creativity, innovation, and excellence. I’m committed to empowering young people ensuring they lead and sustain this transformation. Ultimately, I want to leave behind a transformed tourism sector, global recognition for Lagos’s cultural exports, and a lasting legacy of innovation and empowerment.
Lagos is already a powerhouse—the world is just starting to take notice.
