Public-Private Collaboration Critical To Tourism Growth, Says Lagos Commissioner

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has commissioned the Nautica Beach Resort in Lekki, describing the facility as a bold investment and a strong vote of confidence in the future of Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony, Benson-Awoyinka said the occasion represented much more than the opening of a new leisure destination, noting that it highlights the growing impact of private-sector investment in advancing tourism development and economic growth.
She emphasised that tourism has evolved beyond recreation and leisure to become a major contributor to economic development through job creation, investment attraction, and the stimulation of related sectors.

“Tourism is no longer just about leisure; it is a powerful economic driver. It creates jobs, stimulates small businesses, and supports hospitality, entertainment, arts, culture, and transportation. Destinations like Nautica Beach Resort help us unlock these opportunities,” she said.
The commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to creating an enabling environment for responsible investments that enhance visitor experiences, generate employment, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Declaring the facility open to the public, she said: “It is an honour and privilege to officially commission Nautica Beach Resort. May it prosper, create opportunities, attract visitors from around the world, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of our tourism economy.”
Benson-Awoyinka added that the resort demonstrates Nigeria’s capacity to develop world-class tourism destinations capable of competing favourably on the global stage and attracting both local and international visitors.
In his remarks, the Founder and Chairman of Nautica Beach Resort, Dr. Adetoro Bank-Omotoye, described the project as the fulfilment of a vision that many once considered too ambitious to achieve. “Nautica is visible proof that vision, when pursued with discipline, determination, and persistence, can become reality,” he said.
Bank-Omotoye expressed appreciation to government agencies and partners for fostering the public-private collaboration that made the project possible, noting that such partnerships remain one of the most effective tools for national development.
He also called on Nigerians in the diaspora and prospective investors to take advantage of opportunities within the resort and its expanding ecosystem, particularly in tourism, hospitality, and real estate development, to further strengthen the sector and contribute to economic growth.



