Lagos Heritage sites record over 94,000 visitors in one year
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
No fewer than 94,541 visitors were recorded across major heritage and cultural sites managed by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in 2025.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka made this known during the 2026 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking, she said the figures reflected the sustained investments of the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu in tourism development, heritage preservation, arts, and culture as key drivers of economic growth and global visibility.
According to the visitor data released by the Ministry, the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History recorded the highest patronage, attracting 56,040 visitors within the period under review.
Benson-Awoyinka described the facility as a world-class cultural hub dedicated to preserving and showcasing Yoruba heritage, traditions, historical narratives, and artefacts through immersive experiences.
The Badagry Heritage Museum also received 10,908 visitors, reaffirming its status as one of Nigeria’s most significant historical landmarks, preserving the memory of the transatlantic slave trade and Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage.
Similarly, Freedom Park Lagos recorded 27,593 visitors, strengthening its position as a major cultural and recreational destination in the state.
The Commissioner noted that the former colonial prison has evolved into a vibrant centre for arts, entertainment, exhibitions, concerts, and historical reflection on Nigeria’s journey to independence.
She said the increasing patronage reflects the rising interest of both local and international tourists in Lagos’ cultural and heritage assets.
“As Nigeria’s commercial and cultural capital, Lagos continues to distinguish itself not only as a tourism destination but also as a dynamic economic hub driven by innovation, creativity, trade, and a thriving entertainment industry,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka added that initiatives such as the Lagos Fanti Carnival and other tourism programmes introduced by the state government were contributing significantly to cultural promotion, economic development, and international visibility.
She reiterated the commitment of the Sanwo-Olu administration to leveraging tourism and culture as strategic tools for sustainable development, job creation, and strengthening Lagos’ global reputation as Africa’s entertainment and tourism capital.