Cultural Weekend: LASG Moves to Double Tourism GDP

In a bold and strategic push to reposition Lagos as the cultural heartbeat of Africa, the Lagos State Government has unveiled plans for the Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025—a 72-hour celebration of tradition, creativity, and community.

Slated for November 14th to 16th, the event will be staged across multiple landmark locations in the city and is poised to significantly boost tourism’s contribution to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

This expansive event is more than a showcase—it’s a revival.esigned to amplify Lagos cultural narrative and deepen tourism footprints, blending history, artistry, and local innovation in a city-wide celebration of heritage.

Speaking on the initiative yesterday, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.

“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.

“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.

On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.

“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.

“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.

“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.

“Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY (Do It Yourself) sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.

“Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.

“The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.

“Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.

“Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large”.