INTERVIEW: Lagos State ready for ember festivals, says SA Tourism

Special Adviser on Tourism in Lagos State, Idris Aregbe, speaks with Western Post correspondent Adeola Ogunrinde on Lagos State’s plans for the ember months.

This is a season of festivities in Lagos. How is the state preparing for events like Afropolis, the Ake Festival, and others during this period?

We’re not just looking at the ember months alone. There are now plenty of activities throughout the year, extending beyond December into events like “Jaiye January.” Lagos has become Africa’s entertainment hub. Under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES agenda, entertainment is a significant focus, making Lagos a major tourist destination.

With many visitors coming from abroad, what image do you want to portray as the Special Adviser on Tourism?

What we’re offering this year will surpass previous years. We’re taking Lagos to the next level, enhancing the city’s appeal for international and local visitors alike.

Afropolis is coming up soon. How prepared is the state government?

Afropolis is a nine-day event, and Lagos State is fully backing it. We have multiple events and carnivals planned for the ember months, showing our commitment to making Lagos vibrant and exciting.

Do you have any advice for young people during this festive period?

My advice to the youth is to take advantage of Lagos’s unique opportunities. Many job openings will be available, allowing young people to create opportunities for themselves.

Some say nightlife in Lagos has declined compared to previous years. What’s your take on this?

That’s not true. Lagos is growing daily, with new activities, restaurants, and events emerging all the time. I’m thrilled that we have a Lagos we can proudly call our own.

Events like the recent Tourism Market Fair have supported youth in Lagos. Can you share other ways your office has impacted young people?

I’m not just an art enthusiast; the Lagos Tourism Market Fair was designed to promote the Lagos brand, and Governor Sanwo-Olu is fully supportive. We’re creating platforms that empower the youth and allow them to showcase their talents.

Will there be a Lagos Tourism Fair in December?

We’re considering it along with other activities. This ember month is one that Lagosians will remember for a long time.

What do young people stand to gain from entertainment in Lagos during the ember months?

It’s clear they are key players in the entertainment and tourism industries. As we introduce new initiatives, the youth benefit first. Many projects we’ve facilitated have provided opportunities for young people.

What festivals can we expect during this period?

Lagos has evolved from a music city into a leading hub for film, theater, and religious tourism, competing on the global stage. Events like the Lagos Theatre Festival, fashion shows, and many others are on the lineup. We have a governor fully committed to entertainment and tourism, which is well emphasized in the THEMES+ agenda.