The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) and the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) South West Zone, has trained and equipped beachfront operators in Tarkwa Bay Island with modern grilling and barbecue tools to boost their businesses and enhance visitor experiences.
The initiative formed part of activities marking the 2025 World Tourism Day (WTD), themed “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” The celebration was held at the Tarkwa Bay beachfront in Lagos.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the President of NATOP, Hajia Bolaji Mustapha, said the gesture aligns with this year’s global theme, which focuses on tourism as a driver of economic transformation.
“Tourism is not just about leisure; it is about transforming lives. Tourism will help diversify our economy beyond oil. Countries like Kenya, Morocco, and South Africa have harnessed tourism to change their stories. Nigeria has even greater potential with our culture, landscape, and warm people,” Mustapha said.
She urged Nigerians to explore local tourism destinations, noting that both government and the private sector must work together to build a thriving industry.
Explaining why grilling equipment was provided, Mustapha said the initiative involved chefs who trained local vendors on improved presentation and preparation methods for grilled fish one of the island’s major attractions.
Vice President of FTAN (South West), Mr. Gbenga Sunmonu, commended the collaboration, describing tourism as a powerful tool for cultural exchange, economic growth, and sustainable development.
“One of the things we have come here to do today is to support the community, especially their local cuisines. We want to help them incorporate new techniques and innovations in preparing grilled fish, which will enhance their businesses and attract more visitors,” he said.
The equipment was officially handed over to the beachfront operators in a symbolic presentation ceremony.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Tarkwa Bay youth leader, Mr. Agabi Godwin, expressed gratitude for the intervention, describing it as timely support for a community that has faced several challenges in recent years.
“What you have done today is beyond our expectations. We are so happy. God will bless you for remembering this island. We have gone through a lot, but this support gives us hope,” he said.
The initiative is expected to improve hygiene, service quality, and business capacity among local vendors, ultimately boosting the community’s tourism economy and creating more income opportunities for small operators.
