Lagos is entering a new phase in its tourism development through coordinated collaboration between government institutions and private operators. The state, once viewed mainly as Nigeria’s commercial centre, is shaping a growing tourism economy built on shared goals, clearer regulation and stronger engagement with investors at home and in the diaspora.
At the centre of this shift are Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Idris Aregbe. Their partnership has opened a pathway for operators seeking transparent approval processes, predictable timelines and practical government support. This approach is improving investor confidence and drawing interest from Nigerians in the diaspora who are looking to return with capital and expertise.
One project that reflects this progress is Giwa Gardens, the water park developed by diaspora entrepreneur Keji Giwa. Since opening in December 2023, the 12,100 sqm facility has recorded a steady flow of visitors and activity. Its presence in the Sangotedo axis has supported jobs, lifted neighbourhood commerce and placed the corridor on the map as a developing tourism and entertainment zone. The project shows how public support and private initiative can deliver measurable economic outcomes.
The Lagos State Government has backed operators through faster approvals, direct communication with agencies and targeted investment promotion. Hon. Idris Aregbe has played a connector role, linking operators with partners, financiers and relevant authorities. He has also advocated for infrastructure attention in tourism clusters such as Lekki, Oniru and Sangotedo.
While financing constraints, utilities and long-term maintenance remain issues across the sector, Lagos is showing that continuous dialogue and structured policy can close some of these gaps.
Broader infrastructure projects, including the Blue Line Rail and the Lekki Deep Sea Port, signal the state’s direction. Giwa Gardens continues to invest, hire and plan new improvements while relying on government commitment to power, drainage and road access. Sangotedo’s access roads still require work, but the Lagos State Government has initiated assessments through the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and the Eti-Osa Local Council Development Area. Though timelines are not confirmed, drainage, lighting and road upgrades are expected under later phases of the Lekki-Epe corridor renewal.
For many diaspora investors once discouraged by bureaucracy, reforms in land-use approvals and investor engagement are reshaping Lagos’ reputation from a difficult environment to a destination of opportunity.
Sustaining this progress will depend on transparency, creative financing and investment in core infrastructure. Lagos is also focusing on promoting success stories that support investor confidence while balancing environmental responsibility and community inclusion.
Across ministries, the state government continues to show a willingness to collaborate. Public officers like Hon. Idris Aregbe reflect this culture through accessible and results-orientated leadership. Giwa Gardens stands as living proof, a diaspora initiative made possible through partnership and shared purpose. As Lagos evolves, collaboration remains its strongest asset in building Africa’s next global city.
