By: Manoah Kikekon
BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE – In a move to transform its tourism sector, the Badagry Local Government has inaugurated a high-powered Tourism Steering Committee, charging it with the task of charting a new policy direction to unlock the region's vast economic potential.
The inauguration was performed yesterday by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe.
The committee boasts of esteemed professionals and community leaders, including the appointment of Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, the National Vice President (South West) of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN). This appointment signals a commitment to integrating national expertise with local knowledge to drive the initiative forward.
During the inauguration, Chairman Hunpe laid out a clear vision, moving beyond cultural preservation to position tourism as a primary engine for economic development. He emphasized the critical need for a unified events calendar to strategically market Badagry’s unique historical and cultural offerings to both local and international audiences.
“Tourism, when properly harnessed, is not merely a cultural display but a powerful tool for economic growth, job creation, and community development,” Hunpe stated. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment through ongoing infrastructure projects, including intra-community road construction, urban renewal, and improved public utilities.
Highlighting the link between infrastructure and visitor experience, Hunpe detailed how these projects are a deliberate strategy to boost mobility, enhance aesthetics, and ultimately unlock the town's full economic potential. “Our goal is to attract visitors, investors, and scholars while ensuring that tourism generates sustainable revenue for our people,” he concluded.
The newly formed committee is chaired by the renowned tourism expert, Dr. (Chief) Babatunde Mesewaku. The team includes Mr. Babatunde Ajose as Secretary and Mr. Afeniforo Olumide, the Head of Tourism, as Coordinating Secretary. Other members represent a cross-section of Badagry's heritage, including representatives from the iconic Mobee and Seriki Abass families and key religious institutions.
Accepting his appointment, Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, through a statement by his media aide, Manoah Kikekon, expressed his gratitude to the chairman. “I appreciate the chairman for this move and for considering me to be part of this committee. I want to assure you that I'll put all my required efforts to better Badagry tourism,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the entire committee, Chairman Dr. Mesewaku commended Hon. Hunpe for his visionary leadership and drive. He assured the council boss that the committee, along with a broader stakeholders’ forum, would deliver on its mandate with utmost diligence and innovation.
The inauguration of this steering committee marks a pivotal step in Badagry's journey to reclaim its status as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria. With structured partnerships, focused policies, and a committee blending national acumen with local insight, Badagry is poised to evolve from a symbolic heritage site into a dynamic, modern tourism hub that benefits all its residents.