Tokunbo Afikuyomi

Name: Tokunbo Afikuyomi
Ministry: Lagos State Ministry of Tourism and Inter-governmental Relations
Position: Commissioner

1) What comparative advantage does Lagos have when it comes to tourism?

On the entire west coast of Africa, nobody has 198 km of coastline with natural ocean, sandy beaches, mangroves and sunny weather. We have 61 islands in Lagos and they are so naturally beautiful that you can go there and have a good breath of life: the Garden of Eden is here. Our natural tourist sites have also not become over-commercialised. In addition, the festivals are absolutely incredible. They showcase the true creative energies of Africa that Lagos is blessed with. The importance and advantages of Lagos cannot be over-emphasised and that is why UNESCO is interested in the Slave Route project of Lagos. One of the tasks we set for ourselves is to have some of the important tourism sites here listed as World Heritage Sites because we want the world to see what we have.

2) A major issue around tourism is security. How are you addressing this?

We know there are security issues and the government is tackling them head-on. Government efforts have reduced crime drastically. We are aware of the perception people have about Lagos and Nigeria in general and all the security concerns, but one thing you should know about our people is this: our people in Lagos don't touch foreigners, they don't attack visitors and that is the essence of African hospitality. There is a need to change perceptions because Lagos is an extraordinary place with extraordinary people.

3) Name some of the investment opportunities in Lagos State’s tourism sector?

The highest return on investment is in the tourism, leisure and hospitality industries. There is increased demand for hotels and investors are welcome in this area. Interested parties are invited to participate in the development of malls, cinemas and cruise dining boats, and the development of islands into resorts.

4) What are you planning with regard to resort developments?

Right now we are trying to develop one in Akodo just beside the Eko tourist beach resort. Plans are also underway to develop another massive resort and film village in Badagry. We are developing beautiful golf courses and golf estates with hotels and other facilities in partnership with different groups from Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa and England.

5) To develop the tourism industry you have to have strong infrastructure; is anything being done about this?

Tourism can only be sustainable if there is a growth in infrastructure, so we have been meeting with government agencies, Nigerian and international banks and with local and international investors. The Lagos State Government has done a design for the construction of the Badagry expressway to improve access to attractions like the slave trade heritage site, the Christian heritage sites and the islands in Badagry. The government is also working on rail transportation and opening up the waterways as a way to develop and sustain tourism. We are also working on the Marogbo power plant to provide constant power.