BY OJELABI ABIOLA TENIGBOLA
The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting grassroots-driven tourism and youth empowerment through its support for community-based cultural initiatives.
This was demonstrated at the maiden edition of the Coker-Aguda Beauty Pageant 2026, held on Friday, 1st May 2026 in Coker-Aguda, where the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, was represented by the Director, Research and Development Department, Mr. Frank Temitope Legunsen.
The event, organised by the Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, served as a platform to celebrate culture, creativity, and youth potential, bringing together contestants who showcased intelligence, confidence, and cultural awareness.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary noted that community-based initiatives such as the pageant play a critical role in advancing tourism development at the grassroots level.
She emphasised that these platforms not only promote cultural identity but also stimulate local economies and encourage youth participation in creative enterprise.
“Grassroots initiatives like this are essential to building a sustainable tourism ecosystem. They provide opportunities for young people to express themselves, while also projecting the cultural richness of our communities”, she stated.
She further highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Lagos State Government’s broader vision of positioning tourism as a key driver of socio-economic growth, in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila commended the organisers for their foresight and commitment to youth development, urging that such programmes be sustained and expanded to reach more communities across the State.
She also encouraged the contestants to see their participation as a stepping stone to greater opportunities, noting that platforms like the pageant can serve as catalysts for personal growth and community impact.