Eyo Festival Returns as Lagos Honours Icons, Celebrates Culture; Tinubu, Remi, Jakande, Otedola Remembered

Published by Naijajistreal96 

The Lagos State Government on Monday formally received the Olori Eyo, White Cap Chiefs, traditional rulers, and other key cultural stakeholders at Lagos House, Marina, as activities marking the 2025 Eyo Festival commenced with the historic Ijade Opa Eyo procession.

The event signalled the official return of the iconic Eyo Festival, one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural celebrations, and reaffirmed Lagos’ commitment to preserving its cultural heritage despite its status as the nation’s economic and commercial hub.

Speaking during the reception, the state government described the Eyo Festival as a powerful symbol of Lagos’ identity, noting that the festival provides a platform to showcase the state beyond commerce and infrastructure, highlighting its deep historical roots, traditions, and cultural values.

According to the government, culture remains central to the identity of Lagosians and serves as a vital link between generations, ensuring continuity and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

“The Eyo Festival gives us an opportunity to present Lagos beyond its reputation as Nigeria’s economic and commercial centre. It reminds the world that our city is also deeply rooted in history, culture, and tourism, and that these elements are just as important,” the government stated.

The 2025 edition of the festival is dedicated to honouring notable individuals who played significant roles in shaping Lagos State and Nigeria at large. Among those being honoured is the late Chief Abibat Mogaji, the former Iyaloja-General of Lagos and mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Chief Mogaji was widely recognised as a formidable grassroots leader whose influence extended across markets, community structures, and political organisation in Lagos. Her leadership style and commitment to community development earned her respect across social and political divides.

President Tinubu, Nigeria’s 16th President and a former Governor of Lagos State, was referenced as a beneficiary of the strong values and leadership principles instilled by his late mother. Observers noted that her legacy remains evident in the political and administrative philosophy that has shaped Lagos over the years.

Also honoured is Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson (retd), Lagos State’s first military governor. Johnson is remembered for laying the administrative and structural foundations of modern Lagos State following its creation in 1967. His leadership set the tone for governance, urban planning, and public administration in the state’s formative years.

The festival further recognises the legacy of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Lagos State’s first civilian governor. Jakande, popularly known as “Baba Kekere,” is celebrated for his people-focused policies, particularly in education, housing, transportation, and healthcare. His tenure remains one of the most referenced periods in Lagos’ political history due to its emphasis on social welfare and mass development.

Sir Michael Otedola, former Governor of Lagos State during the Third Republic, is also being honoured for his contributions to governance and democratic development. His leadership during a politically sensitive era is regarded as an important chapter in Lagos’ political evolution.

In addition to these figures, the festival acknowledges the role of national leadership in sustaining Nigeria’s cultural heritage. President Bola Tinubu and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, were commended for their consistent support for cultural values, national unity, and traditional institutions.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a former Senator representing Lagos Central, has long been associated with initiatives promoting women’s empowerment, education, and cultural preservation. Her presence in national leadership, stakeholders say, reflects the continuity of Lagos’ cultural and social values at the federal level.

The Eyo Festival officially began on Monday, marking the start of a week-long series of cultural activities leading up to the grand procession scheduled for Saturday, December 27. The event is expected to attract visitors from across Nigeria and abroad, boosting tourism and reinforcing Lagos’ status as a global cultural destination.

Traditional leaders present at the event emphasized the importance of cultural festivals in maintaining social cohesion and historical consciousness. The White Cap Chiefs, custodians of Lagos traditions, described the Eyo Festival as more than a spectacle, noting that it represents communal discipline, respect for ancestors, and collective identity.

The government warned that societies that lose touch with their culture risk losing their sense of purpose and direction. It stressed that Lagos has deliberately chosen to remain firmly connected to its roots while pursuing modernization and global relevance.

Special appreciation was extended to the Oba of Lagos, His Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for his leadership and role in reviving the Eyo Festival after an eight-year break. The monarch was credited with championing the return of the festival and strengthening collaboration between traditional institutions and the state government.

Cultural analysts note that the revival of the Eyo Festival under Oba Akiolu’s leadership reflects a renewed commitment to safeguarding Lagos’ intangible heritage. They argue that traditional institutions remain critical to preserving customs, resolving disputes, and maintaining cultural continuity.

The Eyo Festival is also seen as a major driver of cultural tourism. With its distinctive white-clad masquerades, symbolic staff known as “Opambata,” and ritual processions through historic parts of Lagos Island, the festival offers visitors a rare insight into indigenous Yoruba-Lagos traditions.

As preparations intensify for Saturday’s grand procession, security agencies, cultural groups, and event organisers have assured residents and visitors of adequate arrangements to ensure a peaceful and successful celebration.

Officials expressed confidence that the event will serve as a proud moment for Lagos State, offering an opportunity to welcome guests from across the world and reaffirm the state’s dual identity as a centre of excellence in commerce and a stronghold of culture and tradition.

Observers say the Eyo Festival’s return at this time carries symbolic significance, particularly as Nigeria navigates social and economic challenges. The festival, they argue, serves as a reminder of shared values, unity, and resilience.

For many Lagosians, the Eyo Festival is not just an annual event but a reaffirmation of who they are as a people. It represents continuity, respect for history, and hope for the future.

As the city prepares to host thousands of spectators, the message from Lagos is clear: progress does not require abandoning tradition. Instead, true development is achieved when culture and modernity coexist.

With the 2025 Eyo Festival underway, Lagos once again positions itself as a city that remembers its past, honours its heroes, and confidently projects its heritage to the world.

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