The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with OTL Downstream Development in Africa to leverage tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and further position Lagos as Africa’s leading destination for business, culture and leisure.
This commitment was made known during a courtesy visit by the management of OTL Downstream Development in Africa, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Joyce Alabogu, to the Ministry’s headquarters at Alausa, Ikeja, on Thursday, 6th August 2026.
The visit was part of preparations for the 20th Anniversary Edition of OTL Downstream, which will feature discussions on forging strategic partnerships to promote and showcase Lagos’ rich tourism assets to the local and international delegates expected to attend the landmark event.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, the Director of Administration and Human Resource, Mr. Taoreed Dosunmu, welcomed the delegation and congratulated OTL Downstream on its two decades of sustained contributions to the growth and development of Africa’s downstream energy sector.
He noted that the THEMES+ Development Agenda of the Lagos State Government places significant emphasis on tourism, entertainment, arts and culture as critical drivers of economic development and global visibility, adding that the State remains committed to showcasing its unique tourism offerings to the world.
Mr. Dosunmu assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate in curating memorable tourism experiences for conference participants through guided visits to iconic tourist attractions, cultural heritage sites and other leisure destinations across Lagos State.
Speaking during the visit, the Chief Executive Officer of OTL Downstream Development in Africa, Mrs. Joyce Alabogu, expressed appreciation to the Ministry for the warm reception and its willingness to partner with the organisation.
She explained that the 20th Anniversary Edition of OTL Downstream is designed to extend beyond industry discourse by providing delegates with an authentic Lagos experience through carefully curated tours of the State’s tourism and cultural attractions.
According to her, the conference is expected to attract a large number of international participants, presenting a unique opportunity to showcase Lagos as a vibrant destination where business, tourism, culture and entertainment converge.
Mrs. Alabogu further noted that the collaboration with the Ministry would not only enrich the overall experience of participants but also reinforce Lagos’ reputation as Africa’s preferred destination for business tourism and cultural exploration.
She disclosed that the 20th Anniversary Edition of OTL Downstream Development in Africa is scheduled to hold from 25th to 30th October, 2026.
OTL Downstream Development in Africa is a leading Pan-African platform dedicated to advancing the continent’s downstream energy sector through research, advocacy, policy dialogue and strategic stakeholder engagement.
Over the years, it has evolved into Africa’s foremost downstream energy conference, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, investors and service providers to shape policy, foster innovation and drive sustainable business growth.
Among those present at the meeting were Directors of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, including Mr. Temitope Legunsen, Mrs. Olubisi Omojare, and Mr. Aminu Omosun. Other members of the OTL Downstream delegation included Ms. Naomi Emeka and Mr. Dami Ajayi.
