Ministry of Tourism Moves to Rebrand Freedom Park as Global Cultural Landmark

 Efforts to revitalize the cultural heritage of Lagos State reached a new milestone as the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture met with the management of Freedom Park Lagos. The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, hosted the park’s manager, Mr. Theo Lawson, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Alausa. The primary objective of the session was to brainstorm innovative strategies to increase the visibility of Freedom Park as a premier historical and recreational destination.

​The discussions centered on enhancing public engagement through curated cultural programming and digital marketing. As a site of significant historical weight formerly a colonial prison turned into a center for arts and liberty Freedom Park is viewed as a "key cultural asset." The Ministry intends to leverage this unique history to attract both local visitors and international tourists seeking an authentic Lagosian experience.

​Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila emphasized that the Ministry is committed to providing the necessary institutional support to ensure the park remains self-sustaining and vibrant. This includes exploring public-private partnerships that can upgrade existing facilities without compromising the park's historical integrity. The goal is to transform the space into a 24-hour cultural hub that hosts festivals, exhibitions, and educational tours.

​Mr. Theo Lawson and his team presented a roadmap for the park’s upcoming season, highlighting the need for improved signage, security, and integration into the state’s broader tourism circuit. The management expressed optimism that with the Ministry’s backing, Freedom Park can significantly contribute to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through increased foot traffic and event hosting.

This strategic meeting aligns with the Governor's vision to make Lagos the entertainment capital of Africa. By focusing on established landmarks like Freedom Park, the Ministry aims to preserve the state’s history while creating modern avenues for economic growth. Future collaborations are expected to involve the Ministry of Education to incorporate the park into school curricula for historical studies.