The Lagos State Government has announced that residents and visitors will enjoy a significantly enhanced waterfront experience this Detty December, following reforms designed to boost the city’s tourism appeal.
The state’s Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr. Dayo Alebiosu, disclosed this on Sunday after a summit of tourism and hospitality stakeholders convened by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. The event carried the theme: “Unlocking the Potentials and Opportunities of Lagos Tourism: Collaboration and Partnership for a Greater Lagos.”
Detty December, popular slang for Nigeria’s festive season from mid-December to the New Year is renowned for its vibrant celebrations. Alebiosu said the season will showcase Lagos’ readiness to deliver a modern, globally competitive tourism environment.
“Tourism is about experience, and December attracts a global audience to our city. We must present waterfronts that rival the quality seen in places like Scandinavia and the Palm Jumeirah,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized that Lagos’ waterways are among its richest assets and stressed the need for development that reflects the state’s ambitions. He also noted that some waterfront communities previously blocked access to the water, limiting their tourism potential.
“It defeats the purpose when buildings face the road and fence off the water. A tourism-driven coastal city must embrace its coastline,” Alebiosu added.
Among the upgrades, Lagos has begun rehabilitating jetties, installing modern concrete pontoons, and redesigning the Bariga jetty into a modern fish market to promote water-based transport, trade, and recreation. The long-awaited boardwalk along the Wole Olateju waterfront is also set to begin once final approvals are granted.
The commissioner further noted that the state is coordinating with LAGFERRY and the Ministry of Transportation to ensure jetties are sited appropriately and that all reclamation projects align with global best practices.
With the festive season approaching, Alebiosu assured that residents and tourists would soon experience the improvements firsthand.
“Our goal is to position Lagos as Africa’s most dynamic and welcoming festive destination. The changes happening along our waterfronts will speak for themselves this December,” he said.
NAN
