Idris Connecting Nigeria

Dear Mr. Governor @jidesanwoolu, Cc @Riddwane @IdrisConnecting @gbenga_omo I write to respectfully present a strategic cultural and economic proposal for the consideration of the Lagos State Government: the institutionalization of a Lagos Gele Festival as part of the State’s flagship Detty December calendar. Lagos has, in recent years, firmly established itself as Africa’s premier destination for end-of-year tourism, culture, and entertainment. Building on this momentum, a curated Gele Festival would serve as a distinctive cultural anchor, one that celebrates Yoruba heritage while advancing the State’s creative economy objectives. The Gele, as a cultural artifact, transcends aesthetics; it represents identity, craftsmanship, and intergenerational expression. Formalizing a festival around it would provide a structured platform to: - Showcase indigenous craftsmanship and contemporary innovation in fashion - Promote local enterprises across textiles, styling, and accessories - Drive cultural tourism through a uniquely Lagos-centric experience - Create employment and commercial opportunities within the creative value chain Positioned within Detty December, the festival would benefit from existing international visibility, diaspora engagement, and private-sector participation, thereby maximizing both cultural impact and revenue generation. Furthermore, given the shared cultural heritage across the Southwest, there is merit in adopting a collaborative, inter-state framework. Strategic alignment with neighboring states could elevate the initiative into a regional cultural asset. Engagement may be extended to all the SW states. Such coordination would reinforce cultural cohesion while positioning the Southwest as a unified destination for heritage tourism during the festive season. This proposal aligns with broader objectives around cultural preservation, tourism expansion, and economic diversification. With the right institutional backing and public-private collaboration, the Lagos Gele Festival has the potential to become a signature global event. I would be honored to see this concept considered and, if required, further developed in alignment with the State’s cultural and tourism strategy. Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration. Yours faithfully, Ademola

Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Carlos Rojas-Arbulu, at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. 🇳🇬 I was joined by our Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila, as we welcomed him the Lagos way with beautiful cultural dance performances and the iconic Eyo masquerade. Because in Lagos, culture does not whisper, it arrives with loud rhythm and colour. Our conversation centered on Lagos as the undeniable seat of culture from our food and fashion to our music and film. It was also inspiring to witness his genuine appreciation for the talent, creativity, and global influence of Lagos creatives. We explored practical ways to strengthen partnerships between Nigeria and Canada by creating opportunities for Lagosians, expanding cultural exchange, and building platforms that deliver sustainable economic value for both countries. 🇳🇬 🇨🇦 One thing is clear, Lagos is a tourism destination waiting to be explored. Our culture is not just heritage, there is so much of our story yet to be told, and more people need to experience Lagos. As culture connects us, Lagos leads. #IdrisConnect #SeeLagosSeeCulture