The Lagos State Government has pledged support for the inaugural Victoria Island Carnival, saying the event could help promote tourism, creative enterprise and economic activity in the state.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving a delegation of the carnival organisers on a courtesy visit ahead of the event.
The carnival, scheduled for September 14 to 20, 2026, in Victoria Island, is expected to feature music, fashion, arts, food, tourism, business and community activities.
The delegation, led by the carnival’s founder, Mr Abiodun Ayorinde, included the Grand Patron, Mr Princewill Utchay; Partner, Mr Zayn Godwill; and veteran musician, Tee Mac.
During the meeting, the organisers presented the concept and objectives of the carnival to the commissioner, describing it as an initiative aimed at promoting Lagos’ cultural, entertainment, hospitality, business and creative sectors.
Benson-Awoyinka said the initiative aligned with the state government’s efforts to use tourism, arts and culture to stimulate economic activity, create employment and attract visitors and investment.
She said the government was willing to collaborate with the organisers within the ministry’s mandate to ensure the event was successfully delivered.
“Lagos is Nigeria’s tourism and entertainment capital, and initiatives such as the Victoria Island Carnival provide another platform to showcase the energy, creativity and cultural richness that make our State unique,” the commissioner said.
She, however, urged the organisers to prioritise safety, professionalism and effective organisation, noting that events of the scale expected must meet the standards associated with Lagos.
The organisers said the week-long carnival would provide opportunities for local creatives, businesses, hospitality operators and communities to participate in the event.
They also expressed their commitment to delivering what they described as a world-class carnival capable of attracting tourists, investors, creatives, businesses and residents.
The inaugural Victoria Island Carnival is expected to combine entertainment and cultural activities with opportunities for business engagement and cultural exchange.