Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his commitment to harnessing the state’s tourism potential as a key driver of economic growth. Speaking on Saturday at the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024, themed “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,” the governor emphasized the importance of showcasing Lagos’ waterways as an essential component of the state’s tourism strategy.
Declaring the event open, Sanwo-Olu expressed excitement about the regatta, which was held across the five divisions of Lagos, marking the beginning of what he called “a lot of activities” during the Yuletide season. He described the regatta as a demonstration of the state’s dedication to developing its tourism potential, particularly through the utilization of its vast water resources.
“One-third of Lagos is surrounded by water, so we need to be able to use our waterways not only as a means of transportation but as a strong ecosystem for tourism,” Sanwo-Olu said. He highlighted the regatta as an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Lagos waterways while promoting the state’s potential as a premier tourist destination. The event showcased a variety of water infrastructure and boat displays, offering residents and visitors a unique experience of the city’s aquatic heritage.
The Governor invited all to relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the Lagos waterways, noting that the regatta was a step towards unlocking the state’s broader tourism potential. “Let us relax, sit back and enjoy the beauty of serenity and tourism potential of the state and the hospitality of Lagos,” he added.
Earlier in the event, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, highlighted that the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024 was designed to immerse participants in the state’s rich waterway culture. She underscored that the regatta serves not only as a platform to boost tourism but also as a catalyst for economic growth by creating opportunities for local businesses. The event further strengthens Lagos’ reputation as a global destination, poised to attract both local and international visitors.
With this initiative, the Lagos State government is signaling its determination to unlock the full potential of its waterways as an economic and tourism asset, promising a future of vibrant activities centered around water-based tourism.
