The Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) has renewed its push to position Lagos as a top global cultural tourism destination by leveraging the state's artistic, historical and creative assets. Lai Mohammed, Chairman of ETF's Governing Council and former Minister of Information and Culture, made the declaration during a visit to the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA) at Pan-Atlantic University in Ibeju-Lekki on Monday. He described culture and heritage as essential to destination marketing, stating Lagos has all the elements to become a leading cultural tourism capital. Mohammed called the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art "a sanctuary of memory, identity and civilisation," and said it exemplifies the kind of cultural institution that can drive tourism and global visibility. "This visit is not a courtesy call. It is a statement of intent," he said, adding that ETF is committed to showcasing Lagos for its history, heritage, cuisine, music, film, fashion and architecture. He compared Lagos' potential to global cities like Paris, New York and Cairo, where major cultural sites draw millions of tourists annually. Mohammed noted the YSMA has become a growing attraction for international visitors, reflecting rising interest in Nigerian culture. He urged stronger collaboration among museums, universities, galleries and tourism stakeholders to build authentic cultural experiences. "The mission of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum aligns naturally with ours," he said, commending Prince Yemisi Shyllon's vision and contributions to art and heritage preservation. The museum's Advisory Council chairman expressed willingness to partner with ETF to advance the shared goal of "bringing the world to Lagos." Also present were Chief Gabriel Idahosa, immediate past President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, and other members of the ETF Governing Council. Mohammed said the visit reinforced ETF's determination to promote Lagos as a world-class tourism destination.
Lai Mohammed leads a foundation pushing Lagos as a global cultural hub while representing a federal administration that has underfunded national museums and heritage sites. The Yemisi Shyllon Museum, privately founded and sustained, now serves as a benchmark for cultural tourism the state wants to export. If Lagos is to be taken seriously as a cultural capital, reliance on individual philanthropy like Prince Shyllon's cannot substitute for public investment. The state's tourism ambitions stand on private generosity, not public policy.
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