The iconic Eyo Festival made a grand comeback to the streets of Lagos after an eight-year hiatus, with President Bola Tinubu in attendance as a special guest of honour. Dressed in the traditional white Eyo garb, the President joined thousands of residents and visitors at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) to witness the vibrant procession of masquerades and cultural performances.
According to Channelstv, presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu maintained that the festival indicates that Nigeria’s diverse culture and traditions hold immense tourism potential and should be harnessed as valuable tools 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 carnival as “a great rekindling of our culture.” “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 festival dressed in a white robe, a damask sash and a distinctive star-studded hat, carrying the traditional opambata staff. The Eyo Festival, which dates back to 1854, was held this year for the first time in eight years.
The 2025 edition honoured four eminent late Lagos personalities: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor Lateef Jakande; former governor Michael Otedola; and Tinubu’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji. The President said that the festival coincided with “Detty December,” when Lagos welcomes Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors. He urged revellers to celebrate peacefully and ensure the safety of all participants.
In his welcome address, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State described the event 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 commended traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, for reviving the festival.
