The Chairman of the Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) and former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has called for a robust and mutually-beneficial tourism and investment partnership between Nigeria and Mexico, as part of efforts to position Lagos and Nigeria as leading global tourism destinations.
A statement by Head of Communication Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s Media Office Nnamdi Atupulazi, noted that the former ninister stated this during a courtesy visit to the Honorary Consul of Mexico in Lagos, Biodun Otunola, on Wednesday.
He outlined key areas of collaboration aimed at unlocking significant opportunities for both countries.
These include the organization of joint tourism exchange programmes, particularly strategic familiarization (FAM) trips between Mexico and Lagos; facilitation of partnerships between Mexican and Nigerian tour operators; promotion of cultural festivals and creative industry collaborations and encouragement of Mexican investment in Lagos’ tourism and hospitality sector.
Alhaji Mohammed also emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices, noting that Mexico’s globally successful tourism model, anchored on culture, heritage and strategic promotion, offers a valuable template for partnership with Lagos, Africa’s cultural and economic hub.
Describing the office of the Honorary Consul as a critical bridge between both nations, he stressed that the proposed collaboration presents a unique opportunity to deepen bilateral ties, foster people-to-people connections and drive sustainable economic growth through tourism.
As part of this engagement, the ETF Chairman extended a formal invitation to Mexican investors, tour operators and tourists to explore the vast opportunities in Lagos, citing its dynamic business environment, large consumer market and vibrant cultural landscape as key attractions.
He noted that such a partnership would also help reshape global perceptions of Nigeria by projecting a more accurate narrative, one defined by resilience, creativity, cultural richness and investment potential.
Earlier, Alhaji Mohammed congratulated Mr. Otunola on his recent appointment, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between both countries, and noting that the Consul’s mandate aligns closely with the mission of the Eko Tourism Foundation.
He reiterated that the ETF is a non-profit, non-political organization established to serve as a strategic platform for stakeholders across the tourism value chain. The Foundation is committed to promoting Lagos to the world, advocating tourism-friendly policies and serving as a reliable partner for international tour operators.
The ETF Chairman highlighted the Foundation’s strength in its diverse membership, comprising seasoned professionals with extensive experience across hospitality, travel, culture, entertainment and tourism development, enabling it to both conceptualize and execute impactful initiatives.
He further disclosed that the Foundation’s application to become an affiliate member of the UN Tourism has received strong endorsement from the Federal Government, underscoring its commitment to global standards and international partnerships.
Alhaji Mohammed described the visit as the beginning of a strategic relationship between Mexico and Nigeria, one that will connect two vibrant cultures and unlock new frontiers in tourism, investment and cultural exchange.
In his remarks, the Honorary Consul, Mr. Otunola, noted that Lagos has significant untapped tourism potential, adding that the proposed collaboration would help bridge existing gaps in the sector.
He said stronger ties between Nigeria and Mexico would boost tourism in Lagos and contribute positively to the state’s economy through the exchange of ideas and best practices.
The Consul also urged the Lagos State Government to take greater ownership of the “Detty December” initiative, noting that structured support would help elevate it to global prominence.
“We need to leverage Nigeria’s rich pool of celebrities to boost tourism, as their influence can help market Lagos to millions of people globally,” he said, while reaffirming Mexico’s willingness to collaborate on all tourism-related initiatives.
Other members of the ETF delegation included Erelu Dr. Abiola Dosumu, Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos; Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, past President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI); Dr. Tunde Lawrenson, Secretary, Board of Trustees and Governing Council; Dr. Iyadunmi Gbadebo, Director of Sales and Marketing, Eko Hotel and Suites; and Mr. Karl Hala, Group General Manager, Continental Hotels Nigeria.
