CANADIAN DEPUTY HIGH COMMISSIONER VISITS MINISTRY OF TOURISM
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The Deputy High Commissioner of Canada in Lagos, Carlos Rojas-Arbulu, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to further deepen collaboration between Canada and Lagos State across tourism, arts, and the creative economy.
The strategic meeting, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa, Ikeja, was presided over by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, and had in attendance the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, alongside key stakeholders within the creative and hospitality sectors.
In his remarks, Mr. Idris Aregbe reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to positioning tourism, arts, and culture as key pillars of economic diversification under the leadership of Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
He described Lagos as the creative capital of Nigeria and a leading hub for Africa’s cultural economy, emphasising the State’s readiness to forge sustainable global partnerships that unlock opportunities for creatives, entrepreneurs, and investors.
The Special Adviser further noted that Lagos is developing structured programmes focused on capacity building, market access, and institutional linkages to connect local talents with international platforms and business ecosystems, ensuring long-term value creation for both Lagos and its global partners.
He expressed confidence that deeper collaboration with Canada would significantly enhance tourism growth, creative sector expansion, and broader economic development.
Earlier, Mr. Carlos Rojas-Arbulu highlighted Canada’s expanding engagement with Nigeria across sectors including energy, education, ICT, and the creative industries.
He noted that while earlier partnerships were largely centred on film: including hosting Nigerian delegations at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival, current discussions have broadened to encompass music, fashion, food, and other artistic expressions.
He disclosed that Canada is projected to become the leading destination for Nigerian artists’ performances in 2025, surpassing both the United Kingdom and the United States.
Citing globally celebrated Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy and Rema, he described the growing cultural bridge between both nations as a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s creative influence.
Beyond performances, the Deputy High Commissioner emphasised the need to build strong institutional linkages between Nigerian creatives and Canadian academic and innovation ecosystems, including platforms such as the University of Toronto.
He stressed that connecting creatives to investors, businesses, and research institutions would drive sustainable economic impact and long-term growth.
Mr. Rojas-Arbulu also announced upcoming initiatives, including film screenings in Canada such as Chronicles of Aquinas, the return of Chef Raquel in June, participation in a major hospitality fair, and expanded cultural programming designed to strengthen people-to-people ties.
Reflecting on his experience in Nigeria, he remarked that his understanding of entrepreneurship had evolved, observing that many Nigerians excel simultaneously in multiple ventures, a dynamic and innovative spirit he described as both inspiring and transformative.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, underscored the transformative power of cultural exchange in reshaping global perceptions of Nigeria. She referenced the positive experiences shared by a Canadian influencer who visited Nigeria and publicly celebrated Nigerian cuisine on social media, describing such testimonials as powerful tools in tourism promotion.
She reiterated that Nigeria remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination for tourists under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring members of the diaspora and international visitors of a secure environment to experience the nation’s rich cultural heritage. She added that Lagos continues to serve as Nigeria’s premier tourism gateway.
Other stakeholders present at the meeting included the Director of Education, Culinary Arts Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CAPA), Hauwa Abdulsalam, members of the Association, and the Chief Executive Officer of Traxis, Ijeoma Okonkwo – reflecting the multi-sectoral and collaborative nature of the engagement.
The Deputy High Commissioner was treated to a vibrant cultural performance by the Lagos State Council Troupe, showcasing the richness and diversity of Lagos’ artistic heritage.
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