Lagos plans to host Greater Lagos Fiesta after two years break

 After two consecutive years of break, 2022 Greater Lagos Fiesta has been scheduled to hold between December 29 and January 1, 2023.

The fiesta was put on hold in 2020 and 2021 due to the Federal Government's directive on COVID-19 pandemic protocols.

As a way of ensuring that the annual event has legal backing, the State Goverment is considering sponsoring a Bill at the State House of Assembly.

Speaking at the briefing which had in attendance, the Commissioner of the Ministry, Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, and other officials in Alausa, the Special Adviser to the Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Femi Martins, disclosed that not less than ten thousand entertainment enthusiasts are expected to participate in the event.

The event would take place in the five divisions of the State which include, Ikorodu, Badagry, Epe, Agege and Lagos Island.

The Greater Lagos Fiesta began in 2012 to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Lagos which attracted tourists and entertainers across Lagos and Nigeria as a whole.

Those showcasing their products and services  from Ikorodu, Epe, Agege and Badagry will pay N20,000 each while those in the Island are to pay N30,000.

Martins said, "It is heartwarming to inform Lagosians that Lagos State Goverment is to hold 2022 Greater Lagos Fiesta after it had been put on hold for two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic protocols."

He believes the upcoming event would not only have impacts on young and talented artistes but at the same time, improve the economy of the State through MSMEs' booming activities.

He added, "Let me assure all Lagosians that the event will be well-loaded featuring live music, concerts, comedy and cultural displays.

"One of the considerations before Mr Governor approved the Lagos Greater Fiesta was the issue of security. The security situation was critically assessed. One of the arguments was that if you have the fiesta, it keeps away criminal activities.

"In order to ensure that the name for the fiesta remains the same, I will be speaking with Mr Governor on the need to send a Bill to the House of Assembly in this regard," Martins promised