A major event is set for inclusion in the country’s culture, entertainment and business calendars with the launch of The Greater Lagos Regatta and Festival (TG-LARAF), which the first edition holds from 10 to 12 April.

TG-LARAF, is the brainchild of Gradient Hill Ltd with the support and endorsement of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government.

The event, organized under the auspices of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism and Culture working in partnership with Gradient Hill, is billed as a blockbuster 3-part event. According to a release signed by Ivor Ekpe, Principal Consultant, Gradient Hill Limited, the event is designed to be a fusion of business, music, arts, culture and general entertainment.

The event will open on 10 April with the Greater Lagos Inland Waterways Optimisation and Business Conference at the Eko Hotel and Suites.

Expected at the conference, to be hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu are major local and international experts and investors in maritime, finance, insurance, tourism, hospitality and cultural sectors among others. The conference is expected to provide directions on how to optimize the economic potential of the state’s marine assets. On the same day, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will declare the festival open at an elaborate opening ceremony holding at the Eko Atlantic City.

The second and final days of the event have been set aside for the Boat Regatta, which will feature traditional and contemporary marine vessel parade, displays and competitions at the Five Cowrie Creek. A family funfair and bazaar as well as live musical performances by top-tier local and international artists at the Eko Atlantic City from Friday through Sunday.

Ekpe expressed delight at the support of the Lagos State Government, saying: “We are very pleased that the Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu aligned his vision for the Lagos Inland Waterways with our proposal and together with the entire Executive Council, gave approval for a partnership with Gradient Hill Limited.”

The Greater Lagos Regatta and Festival are expected to kick-start the economic development vision of Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu for the inland waterways and waterfronts of Lagos State.