President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has participated in the Grand Finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking a significant revival of the historic Lagos carnival after an eight-year absence. The President attended the vibrant ceremony at Tafawa Balewa Square, dressed in traditional white attire, including a distinctive hat and carrying an ‘opambata’ staff. This event underscores the renewed emphasis on preserving and celebrating Lagos’ rich cultural heritage.
The Eyo Festival, with roots dating back to 1854, returned in 2025 for the first time since 2017. Unlike previous iterations, this year’s festival paid homage to four distinguished Lagos figures: Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, Sir Michael Otedola, and Alhaja Abibat Mogaji. These honourees represent pivotal moments in the state’s political and social history, from its early administration to its cultural matriarchs.
President Tinubu, in a message to the organizers, lauded the festival as a “great rekindling of our culture.” He emphasized that the Eyo Festival serves as a vibrant expression of Lagos’ traditions, celebrating not only local achievements but also the outstanding contributions of eminent Nigerians. He highlighted the honourees’ roles as leaders and builders whose vision and diligence significantly contributed to Lagos’ prominence on both national and international stages.
The President also noted the festival’s strategic timing during the ‘Detty December’ period, a time when Lagos attracts a large influx of diaspora Nigerians and foreign visitors. He underscored the immense tourism potential of Nigeria’s cultural assets, suggesting that the spectacle of the Eyo procession sends a powerful message about the nation’s identity and heritage to a global audience.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu described the occasion as both historic and symbolic, welcoming the President to witness a moment of cultural heritage being put into place. He commended the traditional institutions, particularly the Oba of Lagos, for their role in reviving the festival, emphasizing its significance as a powerful affirmation of Lagos’ identity, resilience, and connection to its past.
Governor Sanwo Olu further elaborated that the Eyo Festival is more than just pageantry; it is a “living archive of our Yoruba heritage” and a symbol of unity, purity, and the communal strength of Lagos. He assured residents that his administration remains committed to socio-economic development while actively preserving the state’s cultural heritage, with plans to leverage the festival for global projection.
The event saw the presence of numerous dignitaries, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, members of the diplomatic corps, and senior government officials from federal and state levels. The celebration featured a rich tapestry of cultural performances, traditional dances, indigenous music, and chants, culminating in special prayers for the President and the nation.
