Gov. Ambode reiterates commitment to National Museum renovation

Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Monday reiterated his administration’s commitment to support the Federal Government to renovate the National Museum in Lagos to meet global standard.

Speaking with newsmen after inspecting the museum, Ambode said he came to find out what was required to redesign and renovate it to meet international standard.

“What we have done today is to find out in real terms what is required to collaborate together on this project.

“I am happy that the Director-General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments has been able to take us round. We have seen what we have here.’’

He said with the partnership between Lagos State Government and Federal Government, Nigerians would benefit from the project.

“ What I have seen is that we have enough space that we can actually create a new museum here in a modern way while the old one will also be in place.

“I think the partnership will benefit the whole country.

“We already have behind here an ongoing multi-layer car park project, which will actually complement whatever that we are doing here,” he said.

The governor, who described his inspection as a new beginning, said his administration planned to complete the renovation of the museum before Lagos State marks its 50-year anniversary in 2017.

He said his administration would promote tourism, hospitality, entertainment, arts and sports to create more employment and generate revenue.

According to him, his administration will provide enabling environment for relevant stakeholders in the industry to grow the Gross Domestic Product of the state.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who was also present, said his ministry would ensure that the proposed renovation of the museum becomes a reality.

“This is like a dream come true for me because this is kind of biggest collaboration so far between the state government and Federal Government, at least in the area of culture and tourism.

“That the governor has been able to come here today is a confirmation that he is ready to walk his talk.

“The issue goes beyond Lagos State; I think it is about Nigeria. Like the governor has said, tourism and culture are primarily labour intensive.’’

The minister said tourism and culture employed not just people, but actually brought the best in terms of talent and creativity. (NAN)