By Lukman Olabiyi
The Lagos State Government has launched a 101-day initiative aimed at revitalising the tourism sector and boosting revenue for stakeholders in the hospitality and creative industries.
The initiative, titled “101 Days in Lagos,” is scheduled to run from Friday, September 26, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026, and will feature a diverse line-up of cultural, entertainment, and sporting events across various locations in the state.
Announcing the programme, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to promote Lagos’ cultural vibrancy while creating new economic opportunities for industry players.
Aregbe made the announcement during a meeting with the Pulse Africa team, led by its CEO, Katharina Link.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the programme is part of a broader mission to position Lagos as the continent’s leading destination for culture and tourism. It is expected to drive international partnerships, empower youth through skill acquisition, and showcase the diversity of the state’s creative industries.
Highlights of the 101-day calendar include the “Skills Up Lagos” programme, which aims to equip young people with relevant skills in tourism, hospitality, and event management.
Other components include music and fashion festivals, sporting competitions, art exhibitions, and food fairs, all designed to attract local and international visitors.
The statement read, “The agenda included empowering youth through robust skills development, showcasing the rich tapestry of Lagos’ cultural heritage to a global audience, fostering international sports engagement, and diversifying entertainment options to invigorate the daytime economy. These goals align seamlessly with the Ministry’s vision to promote and develop the tourism sector, highlight the State’s cultural narratives, and cultivate a lively entertainment scene.
“This initiative promises an exciting array of cultural celebrations, thrilling entertainment, high-profile sports events, and a myriad of hospitality activities.
“Notable components include the ‘Skills Up Lagos’ programme, aimed at empowering the youth, captivating cultural showcases, and landmark events that feature sports and entertainment, all developed in collaboration with local restaurants, venues, and cultural stakeholders.
“At its core, the flagship initiative strives to promote Lagos as a year-round destination, enrich the lives of its youth through skill acquisition, celebrate the State’s unique cultural heritage, boost local and international tourism to Lagos, increase trade between tourists and their hosts, encourage international sporting interactions, and establish Lagos as Africa’s cultural powerhouse.
“With the launch of ‘101 Days in Lagos,’ the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is poised to revolutionise the tourism landscape, catapulting Lagos into the spotlight as the ultimate destination for cultural and entertainment seekers, and sports enthusiasts alike.”
In her remarks, Ms Link expressed Pulse Africa’s commitment to showcasing Lagos’ creative pulse.
“Pulse is passionate about highlighting the energy, creativity, and opportunities that Lagos represents. We see ourselves as a platform that amplifies voices, spotlights hidden gems, and connects Lagos to audiences across Nigeria and beyond,” she said.
Also at the meeting was Ms Tanaz of Awari/Lost in Lagos, who emphasised the importance of partnerships in shaping the city’s cultural identity.
She noted that collaborations between media platforms and the government could redefine how Lagos is experienced globally.
