Lagos Boosts Creative Economy as Over 1,000 Creatives Empowered Through Skill Up Initiative

Lagos State says it is doubling down on culture-driven development, with fresh investments in tourism, arts, and the creative economy aimed at turning talent into sustainable income for residents.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, revealed the update during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing in Alausa, noting that more than 1,000 creatives have benefited from state-backed empowerment programmes within the last 24 months.

He explained that the Skill Up Lagos Initiative, delivered through the Lagos Cultural Mission, is designed to equip emerging artists, designers, performers, and cultural entrepreneurs with practical skills, visibility, and access to economic opportunities in the creative sector.

Aregbe said the administration is deliberately positioning culture as an economic asset rather than just entertainment, stressing that Lagos is building a structured creative ecosystem that can compete globally.

One of the flagship programmes, “Cook Lagos, Eat Lagos,” is reshaping how the state promotes tourism through food. The initiative connects culinary heritage with business opportunities for chefs, food vendors, farmers, and hospitality operators.

He described the Lagos Cultural Mission as the central framework guiding cultural diplomacy and creative programming, adding that it links local festivals, international partnerships, and tourism campaigns into a unified strategy to position Lagos as Africa’s cultural capital.

Community festivals also remain a key focus. Aregbe highlighted the return of the Kayo-Kayo Festival in Epe, which attracted over 1,000 participants in July 2025, describing it as a major expression of heritage, unity, and cultural identity.

Beyond celebration, the state says it is using such events to drive real economic impact, including boosting local trade and supporting women-led businesses, such as fish vendors connected to the Oja Chief market experience.

The office also expanded its creative outreach through the “Beauty in Motherland” programme, which attracted more than 500 vendors and professionals, strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global beauty and lifestyle industry.

Aregbe further pointed to high-profile cultural partnerships, including support for record-breaking beauty initiatives and major entertainment projects such as Adekunle Gold’s Fuji album launch, which blended modern Afrobeats with traditional Fuji influences.

He added that the government is also recognising women shaping the state’s cultural space, with 19 outstanding contributors honoured for their roles in advancing Lagos’ arts and creative industries.

According to him, Lagos is intentionally merging culture and commerce, building partnerships that turn creative expression into real economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state.