Assessment of Historic Monuments in Lagos Island, Nigeria

Lagos state is a depository of monuments, history and site attractions. Most of the historical sites and monuments in Lagos state are of great value but are left unkempt and unmaintained leading to their deterioration. The study therefore assessed the historic sites and monuments for the growth of tourism in Lagos Island (Islale Eko). Structured questionnaires were administered and pictures were used. Analysis showed that 29.9% (Brazilian styles), 54.5% (either pre- or post-colonial), 15.6% (contemporary architecture such as the Norman Gothic style), this indicate that the buildings were constructed during the colonial period. Findings also reveal that 38.3% of the historic structures did not retain their initial use due to renovation and maintenance purposes. Also, 8 out of 13 monuments and structures surveyed needed repair works. Some of the challenges confronting the sites are threats of urbanization, inadequate funding and lack of ground surveillance, among others. For these sites to optimally contribute to tourism development in Nigeria, conscious efforts are required from government and stakeholders towards their preservation, protection and maintenance among others.