Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially introduced the symbol for the Lagos Shopping Festival (LSF), signaling the start of preparations for the eagerly awaited 72-hour continuous shopping and entertainment event. 

The launch event occurred at Lagos House in Ikeja, coinciding with a courtesy visit from the festival's organizers and corporate partners, including Zenith Bank Plc, Tolaram Group, and Guinness Nigeria Plc. 

Scheduled to take place from December 23rd to 25th, 2024, the Lagos Shopping Festival aims to position Lagos as Africa's premier center for commerce, creativity, and entertainment. 

Idris Aregbe, the Governor's Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. He noted the success of a trial event held in April, which generated over ₦250 million in sales over three days. 

“This is the result of effective partnerships between government and private organizations,” Aregbe stated. 

Festival Director Ms. Damilola Pedro shared that the concept was initially proposed to Governor Sanwo-Olu in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Mr. Governor, this initiative is your legacy. With the inaugural edition lasting three days, we are poised to elevate Lagos to the status of global cities like Istanbul and Dubai,” she remarked. 

Sanwo-Olu praised the determination of the organizers, declaring, “The Lagos Shopping Festival is an idea whose time has come. This December, Lagos will join the ranks of global cities hosting iconic shopping festivals.” 

The Governor characterized the event as a fusion of commerce and entertainment, aimed at bolstering local businesses, creating economic opportunities, and enhancing Lagos’ image as a hub for tourism and innovation. 

He encouraged Lagosians, businesses, and visitors to engage in the festival, promising a transformative experience. “This festival will redefine December in Lagos, bringing together families, friends, and Nigerians in the diaspora for a celebration,” he affirmed.

The Lagos Shopping Festival is set to transform the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island into a lively venue that will offer discounted shopping, live performances from renowned artists, continuous rave parties, and attractions suitable for families. 

Corporate sponsors, including Guinness Nigeria Plc, have expressed their enthusiasm for this initiative. Girish Sharma, the CEO of Guinness Nigeria, commended the festival for its unique combination of commerce and entertainment, noting that Guinness brands will be present to enhance the celebratory atmosphere. 

"This event embodies the spirit of Lagos as Africa’s center for commerce and entertainment," Sharma remarked. Supported by the Lagos State Government, the Lagos Shopping Festival highlights the commitment to promoting economic development and reinforcing Lagos’ status as a premier destination for both business and leisure.