At the heart of Lagos, in the historic Glover Memorial Hall on Sunday 8th September, 2024, kakalistiq.com reports that a powerful tribute echoed through the corridors as Nigeria’s Minister for Tourism, Dr. Lola Ade-John, delivered a stirring address, calling for cultural and tourism renaissance at the King Kosoko Memorial Lecture and Book Launch, themed “The Lagos Economy in the Era of King Kosoko: A Talent of Prosperity and Decline.”
“Today, we honour the enduring legacy of King Kosoko,” Dr. Ade-John began, her voice resonating with pride. “As we celebrate ‘The Return 1862 Annual Event,’ I am filled with immense gratitude. This event is more than a commemoration; it is a reminder of our resilience, unity, and unbreakable spirit.”
Addressing His Royal Highness, Abiola Kosoko, Oloja of Lagos Elect, she said, “Your commitment to preserving our heritage is remarkable. King Kosoko’s return in 1862 was not just a historical moment; it was a bold declaration that Lagos, and indeed Nigeria, would always rise.” She emphasized the importance of keeping history alive, noting, “Today, we are custodians of our ancestors’ stories—their triumphs, their struggles. It is our duty to ensure they are never lost.”
Dr. Ade-John praised the Oloja of Lagos Elect’s tireless efforts, stating, “Your Royal Highness, your unwavering dedication in organising this event year after year has kept our cultural wealth alive. Let this be a call to Nigerians everywhere: embrace our heritage with pride and invite the world to witness the wonder that is Lagos and the magic that is Nigeria.”
The Minister also highlighted the vast potential of Nigeria’s tourism sector, pointing out its untapped opportunities. “In 2019, tourism contributed nearly 5% to our GDP with just over 1.2 million international visitors,” she said. “Imagine what these figures could be if our 200 million-strong population embraced domestic travel. Lagos, rich in culture and history, is at the forefront of this growth, and events like this serve as beacons that can attract even more to our shores.”
Dr. Ade-John urged Nigerians to harness the full potential of the country’s cultural assets, festivals, and tourist attractions. “We have over 1,000 cultural assets and more than 800 festivals,” she said. “The possibilities are endless if we tap into these treasures. Let King Kosoko’s spirit—his courage, vision, and love for his people—inspire us to transform Nigeria into a global cultural destination.”
She concluded her address with heartfelt appreciation for all those involved in making the event possible. “To the organisers, performers, and the many hands behind the scenes, I salute you. Your work shapes the story of our nation,” she said. “May the legacy of King Kosoko continue to remind us of the greatness within our borders and the boundless potential of our people.”
As the applause filled the hall, Dr. Lola Ade-John’s words left a resonant message: that the spirit of King Kosoko endures, urging every Nigerian to celebrate their heritage and to champion the nation’s journey towards becoming a global cultural powerhouse.
