Lagos Backs Victoria Island Carnival to Boost Tourism, Creative Economy

By Peter Emmanuel |

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its support for the Victoria Island Carnival as part of efforts to promote tourism, culture and the creative economy in the state.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, gave the assurance on Thursday, September 3, 2026, when she received a delegation of the carnival organisers on a courtesy visit ahead of the inaugural edition.

The delegation was led by the founder of the carnival, Abiodun Ayorinde, and included the Grand Patron, Princewill Utchay, partner Zayn Godwill and veteran musician Tee Mac.

The commissioner said the state government was willing to support credible tourism and cultural initiatives that could showcase Lagos’ lifestyle, creative talents and economic potential to a global audience.

She said the diversity and dynamism of Lagos provided a strong foundation for tourism experiences capable of attracting visitors, investors and creatives from within and outside Nigeria.

Lagos Receives Carnival Delegation Ahead of Inaugural Edition

During the meeting, the delegation briefed the commissioner on the concept and vision of the Victoria Island Carnival.

The organisers described the carnival as a tourism and cultural initiative designed to celebrate Lagos’ economy, lifestyle, entertainment, hospitality, business and creative sectors.

The inaugural carnival is scheduled to hold from Monday, September 14, to Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The week-long event is expected to bring together music, fashion, arts, food, tourism, business and community engagement.

The organisers said the carnival would provide opportunities for local talents, businesses, hospitality operators, creatives and communities to participate in the tourism experience.

The event is also expected to attract tourists, investors, creatives, businesses and residents while creating opportunities for cultural exchange and economic engagement.

Victoria Island Carnival to Celebrate Music, Fashion, Arts, Tourism

Benson-Awoyinka commended the organisers for developing an initiative that aligns with the state’s efforts to use tourism, arts and culture to stimulate economic activity.

She said events such as the carnival could help create employment opportunities while improving Lagos’ visibility on the global tourism and creative map.

The commissioner described Lagos as Nigeria’s tourism and entertainment capital and said the carnival would provide another platform to showcase the state’s energy and cultural richness.

She said the government was committed to supporting initiatives that promote tourism assets, create opportunities for creative talents and attract visitors to the state.

The organisers said they were committed to delivering a world-class carnival that would reflect the character and creativity of Lagos.

They added that the event would create a platform for businesses and creatives to connect with residents and visitors through entertainment, culture and tourism.

Lagos Promises Support, Urges Organisers to Maintain High Standards

Benson-Awoyinka assured the delegation of the ministry’s willingness to collaborate with the organisers within its mandate to facilitate a successful carnival.

She, however, urged the organisers to maintain high standards of organisation, safety, professionalism and presentation.

According to her, events of such magnitude must reflect the quality and reputation associated with Lagos.

She said proper planning and execution would be important to ensuring that the carnival delivers the desired tourism and economic benefits.

The commissioner added that the state’s diversity and creative energy remained important assets that could be used to attract more visitors and investment.

The Victoria Island Carnival is expected to hold from September 14 to 20 and bring together participants from the tourism, entertainment, hospitality, business and creative sectors.