Lagos Launches Beach Operators Registration, Revitalizes Key Tourism Sites
By Nurudeen Adebayo
The Lagos State Government has launched a comprehensive initiative to regulate and formally register beach operators across the state, as part of broader efforts to transform the state into a world-class tourism destination.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, was unveiled during a Ministerial Press Briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, to commemorate Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sixth year in office.
Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, who disclosed the details, said the programme is aimed at improving safety protocols, strengthening environmental management, and enhancing the overall visitor experience at Lagos’ numerous beach destinations.
“We are actively engaging with community leaders, environmental experts, and beach operators to ensure that our waterfronts meet the highest standards in safety, cleanliness, and hospitality,” Benson-Awoyinka stated. “Our goal is to transform Lagos into a world-class beach tourism destination that is safe, clean, and well-managed for both local and international visitors.”
As part of the initiative, the state government has commenced revitalization efforts at several key tourism assets, including Topo Island in Badagry, Ilashe Beach Resort, Eko Tourist Beach Resort, and Akodo Beach. These sites are now being repositioned for sustainable tourism development and opened up for private-sector investment.
In tandem with the beach regulation programme, the Ministry is also finalizing a state-wide Hospitality Licensing and Registration Scheme aimed at boosting standards across the hospitality sector.
“We are excited to roll out our new Hotel Registration Platform, which will serve as a central database for all tourism businesses and establishments across Lagos State,” the Commissioner added.
According to her, operators can now register online at https://lasgtourism.com and receive a 30-day provisional certificate pending verification, after which a one-year operational certificate is issued.
The platform, designed to integrate technology into the regulation process, will also serve as a comprehensive inventory of hotel rooms, nightclubs, bars, lounges, and beach resorts across the state. As part of regulatory compliance, all registered establishments are mandated to display their certificates prominently in their front offices.
The initiative marks a significant step in the Sanwo-Olu administration’s ongoing efforts to professionalize the state’s tourism sector and attract both local and international investment.
