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The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, on Thursday, 30th April 2026, participated in the 32nd Annual Thea Awards Conference held at JW Marriott Hotel, in Orlando, Florida, United States, as part of ongoing efforts to position Lagos as a leading global cultural and tourism destination.
She attended the prestigious conference alongside the Project Contractor and Design Architect of the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Mr. Seun Oduwole.
The Thea Awards Conference, organised by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), is widely recognised as one of the most esteemed gatherings in the global themed entertainment industry, celebrating innovation, excellence, and creativity in experience design, cultural attractions, and immersive storytelling.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka emphasised that Lagos State is committed to elevating its cultural assets to meet global standards.
She noted that participation in the conference provided valuable insights into cutting-edge trends and best practices that will enhance the delivery of world-class cultural experiences at the J. Randle Centre.
“Lagos is not only preserving its rich cultural heritage but also reimagining how it is presented to a global audience in a compelling, immersive, and economically sustainable way,” she stated.
Benson-Awoyinka reiterated that strategic investments in cultural infrastructure are aligned with the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, which prioritises tourism, arts, culture, and the creative economy as key drivers of socio-economic growth in Lagos State.
Also speaking, Mr. Seun Oduwole emphasised that the conference provided an opportunity to benchmark the J. Randle Centre against internationally acclaimed cultural institutions, while integrating innovative design concepts and experiential elements into the project.
The J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History remain a flagship initiative of the Lagos State Government, designed to celebrate and promote Yoruba heritage through interactive exhibitions, performance spaces, and educational experiences.
