The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, has expressed its readiness to partner investors for the establishment of leisure and tourism facilities in all parts of the state.

The State Commissioner for Tourism, Mr. Folorunsho Folarin-Coker, made the declaration at the official commissioning of the redeveloped Apapa Amusement Park at the weekend. He urged investors to take advantage of investment friendly environment provided by the current administration and invest in the state.

Folarin-Coker described the new park as another significant step by the present administration to use Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Sports (THES) as a tool to stimulate the economy of the state.

He said that the park used to be the number one leisure spot for family entertainment, recreation and relaxation in Lagos, but suffered depreciation and as such the value derived from visiting the park diminished.

The commissioner, however, he said the State Government in conjunction with other stakeholders and a new concessionaire took interest and resuscitated the park. He noted that the park now offers Lagosians an opportunity for the regeneration of family values and bonding as the facilities provided would go a long way to stimulate the mind through recreation and entertainment.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Arts and Culture, Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola, said the park “provides picture-perfect moments and memories to last a time and serve as ideal place for family fun, which means that parents have extra time to spend with their children.”

Hon. Akinsola also commended the vision of the State and Local Governments as well as Messrs Cube Nig. Ltd for the re-investment in the park and for recreating a place of fun for the children.

The event was attended by many dignitaries including Mrs. Olufunmilayo Balogun, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture; Hon. Ayodeji Joseph, member, House of Representatives; Hon. Babalola Mogaji, Secretary, Apapa Local Government; the Lisa and Ekerin of Ojora Kingdom, Chief Ojora Adejiyan and Brig. General (Rtd) Ayo Vaughan, Chairman, Apapa GRA residents Association, among others.

•Photo shows Lagos Commissioner for Tourism, Folorunsho Folarin-Coker.