President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday participated in the Grand Finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking the return of the historic Lagos carnival after an eight year hiatus.
According to a State House press release signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President attended the event in traditional white attire, wearing “a white robe, a damask sash slung over his shoulder, and a distinctive hat emblazoned with bold, decorative stars,” while also carrying “a long staff called an opambata.”
The colourful ceremony, held at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, followed earlier rites that began with paying homage and presenting the festival staff to the President at his Lagos residence on Sunday, December 21.
The Eyo Festival, which dates back to 1854, was held in 2025 for the first time in eight years. Unlike previous editions, this year’s festival honoured four prominent Lagos figures: the first military administrator of Lagos State, Mobolaji Johnson; the first civilian governor, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande; a former civilian governor, Sir Michael Otedola; and a former Iyaloja and mother of the President, Alhaja Abibat Mogaji.
The press release described the festival as a celebration of Lagos’ deep cultural history, with Yoruba families participating through regalia, dance, unity, and peace.
In a message sent to the organisers, President 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 the achievements, outstanding contributions, and exemplary lives of distinguished Nigerians not only eminent Lagosians,” the President said.
He added that the honourees merited national recognition, noting: “They were leaders and builders whose visionary leadership, influence, and diligence in public service helped nurture Lagos State to both national and international prominence.”
President Tinubu also highlighted the festival’s alignment with Detty December, when Lagos hosts large numbers of Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors.
“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 glamour of white robed figures parading our streets in celebration of distinguished Lagosians sends a resounding message about our identity and our country,” he said.
The President urged all revellers to celebrate peacefully and prioritise safety throughout the festivities.
In his welcome address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu described the occasion as both historic and symbolic.
“What we’re celebrating here today is the first of its kind. As our son, our father, we are seated with the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to witness a history of the cultural heritage of Lagos,” he said.
“Mr President, it is not just a coincidence; it is history in your lifetime that is being put in place today,” the governor added.
Governor Sanwo Olu commended the traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for reviving the festival after years of inactivity.
“After an eight year interval, this revered tradition returns to Lagos in full splendour, standing as a powerful affirmation of our identity, our resilience, and unbroken connection to our history,” he said.
“The Eyo Festival is far more than a pageantry. It is a living archive of our Yoruba heritage and a symbol of unity, a symbol of purity and the communal strength of Lagos.”
He assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue socio economic development while preserving the state’s cultural heritage, adding that the festival would be maximised to project Lagos globally.
Dignitaries at the event included Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma; Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; members of the diplomatic corps; and senior federal and Lagos State government officials.
The celebration featured cultural performances, traditional dances, indigenous music and chants, and a procession of Eyo groups, before concluding with special prayers for the President and the country.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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