The Lagos State Government has revealed that it spent more than N8.47 billion over the past year to sponsor 143 festivals and cultural events across the state.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja.
The Commissioner explained that the state’s investment in cultural programming is already delivering measurable benefits, including job creation, youth engagement, local economic growth, and heightened global media visibility.
She said, “Through the ministry, the Creative Arts Department sponsored the festivals with the sum of approximately N8,475,238,265. This robust investment reflects the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to positioning Lagos as the leading hub for art, culture, and entertainment in Africa.”
Benson-Awoyinka also stated that agencies such as the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture and the Lagos State Films and Videos Censors Board have worked closely with the ministry to ensure seamless execution of the initiatives.
“Over the past year, we have expanded our reach, deepened strategic partnerships both locally and internationally, and delivered impactful initiatives that not only showcase the beauty and diversity of Lagos but also empower our youth and creative entrepreneurs,” she said.
She listed some of the featured events, including the Fanti Carnival, Kurunmi Stage Play, Africa Fashion Designers Award, and the Badagry International Film Festival, noting that the events were not only designed to entertain but also to preserve cultural heritage and boost local economies.
The Commissioner emphasized that these programmes are closely aligned with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly the fifth pillar, which focuses on the development of the entertainment and tourism sectors.
