President Bola Tinubu joined thousands of Lagos residents and culture enthusiasts at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking the return of the historic cultural parade after an eight-year break.
The colourful celebration took place at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, drawing large crowds eager to witness one of the state’s most iconic traditions.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President said the festival underscored the enormous tourism value embedded in Nigeria’s cultural heritage, noting that such traditions should be strategically harnessed for destination promotion.
“It is a reminder that our culture and traditions hold great tourism potential. Indeed, our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion,” the President was quoted as saying.
“The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets sends a resounding message about our identity and our country.”
Tinubu described the festival as “a great rekindling of our culture,” stressing its importance to Lagos’ history and identity.
“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos. It celebrates exemplary lives and outstanding contributions of distinguished Nigerians,” he said.
The President attended the event dressed in a white robe, damask sash and a distinctive star-studded hat, while carrying the traditional opambata staff associated with Eyo masqueraders.
First held in 1854, the Eyo Festival returned in 2025 after being absent for eight years. This year’s edition honoured four eminent late Lagos personalities: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor Lateef Jakande; former governor Michael Otedola; and the President’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji.
Tinubu noted that the festival coincided with the “Detty December” period, when Lagos attracts Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors. He urged revellers to celebrate peacefully and prioritise the safety of all participants.
In his welcome address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the occasion as historic and a cultural homecoming for the President.
“As our son and father, we are seated with the president to witness a defining moment in Lagos’ cultural history,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He also commended traditional institutions under the leadership of the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, for their role in reviving the festival.
What you should know
The Eyo Festival is one of Lagos’ oldest and most symbolic cultural events, traditionally staged to honour prominent individuals or mark significant occasions.
Its white-clad masquerades represent a spiritual connection between the living and the ancestors, reinforcing Lagos’ identity as a historic Yoruba settlement. Beyond its cultural significance, the festival has become a major tourist attraction, especially during December when Lagos hosts visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The 2025 revival highlights renewed efforts by the Lagos State government and traditional institutions to preserve cultural heritage while promoting tourism and economic activity.
