The Lagos State Government has commenced reforms in its hospitality and tourism sector aimed at streamlining regulation, simplifying licensing processes, and improving investor confidence in the industry.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, disclosed that more than 500 tourism and hospitality establishments have already been enumerated across the state as part of the reform process.
She made the announcement during the annual ministerial press briefing marking the seventh year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
According to her, the enumeration exercise is a foundational step toward building a comprehensive database for effective planning, regulation, and development of the sector.
“It would help the ministry develop a comprehensive database for effective regulation, sector planning, and tourism development,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka explained that the reforms are focused on harmonising tourism laws, permits, and licensing fees to eliminate duplication and reduce multiple charges currently faced by operators in the sector.
She noted that the initiative is designed to improve the ease of doing business in Lagos and attract more private sector investment into the hospitality and tourism industry.
The commissioner added that the reforms align with the state government’s broader strategy of positioning Lagos as a globally competitive destination for tourism and hospitality investment.
She assured stakeholders that the government would continue engaging industry players to ensure the reforms are inclusive and supportive of sustainable sector growth.
The Lagos State Government said it remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports innovation, compliance, and long-term development within the tourism ecosystem.
