Tinubu Joins 2025 Eyo Festival as Lagos Culture Takes Centre Stage

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday took part in the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos, marking a rare presidential presence at one of the state’s most revered cultural events.

The participation was confirmed in a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The colourful celebration held at Tafawa Balewa Square drew traditional institutions, dignitaries and thousands of revellers to the historic venue.

Dressed in traditional white attire with a damask sash and a star-embellished hat, the President joined other participants while holding the symbolic opambata staff.

The festival activities had earlier commenced with traditional homage paid to the President at his Lagos residence on Sunday, December 21.

The Eyo Festival, which dates back to 1854, returned this year after an eight-year hiatus.

The 2025 edition was distinctive for honouring four prominent Lagos figures instead of the usual one or three.

They include former military administrator of Lagos State, Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor, Lateef Kayode Jakande; ex-governor Sir Michael Otedola; and the President’s late mother and former Iyaloja, Alhaja Abibat Mogaji.

In a message to the organisers, President Tinubu described the festival 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.”

He said the honourees merited the recognition, noting that “they were leaders and builders whose visionary leadership, influence, and diligence in public service helped nurture Lagos State to both national and international prominence”.

The President also drew attention to the timing of the festival, which coincided with the popular Detty December season, saying it highlights the tourism value of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“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 urged participants to celebrate responsibly and prioritise safety throughout the festivities.

Speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the occasion as historic and symbolic, calling it a homecoming for the President.

“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.”

“Mr President, it is not just a coincidence; it is history in your lifetime that is being put in place today.”

Sanwo-Olu praised the traditional institutions led by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for reviving the festival, describing Eyo as more than a spectacle.

“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 that his administration would continue to drive economic growth while preserving cultural identity, adding that the festival would be further positioned to project Lagos on the global stage.

The event attracted several high-profile guests, including 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 state officials.

The celebration featured traditional music, dances, chants and processions by Eyo groups, before concluding with prayers offered for the President and the nation.