President Bola Tinubu on Saturday graced the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, appearing in traditional white attire complemented by a damask sash and a specially designed hat adorned with bold decorative stars.
In keeping with the customs of the festival, the President also held the ceremonial long staff known as the opambata, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The week-long cultural celebration culminated at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, following the traditional presentation of the festival staff to the President at his Lagos residence on Sunday, December 21.
According to the statement, the Eyo Festival—established in 1854—returned this year after an eight-year hiatus. Unlike previous editions that typically honour one or three individuals, the 2025 festival recognised four eminent Lagos personalities. They include the first military administrator of Lagos State, Mobolaji Johnson; the state’s first civilian governor, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande; former civilian governor, Sir Michael Otedola; and a former Iyaloja and mother of the President, Alhaja Abibat Mogaji.
“The carnival showcases the deep cultural history and heritage of Lagos, with various Yoruba families participating in regalia, dance, unity, and peace,” the statement added.
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.
“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, noting that it coincides with the annual Detty December festivities, a period that attracts thousands of Nigerians in the diaspora as well as international visitors to Lagos.
“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.”
President Tinubu urged participants to celebrate responsibly while prioritising peace and safety throughout the festivities.
In his welcome address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the occasion as historic, noting that it also represented a symbolic 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.
“We honour you, give God the glory for your life, and we are indeed excited that God Almighty can bring you and most of your people to come and celebrate the best of the cultural heritage of Lagos.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also praised traditional institutions under the leadership of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for their role in reviving the festival.
“Today, we gather on this historic ground at the Tafawa Balewa Square, wrapped in the timeless majesty of the Eyo Festival, the sacred Adamu Orisha Play.
“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.
“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.”
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue socio-economic development while preserving the state’s cultural legacy, adding that efforts would be made to maximise the festival’s global tourism potential.
Among dignitaries present were the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; members of the diplomatic corps; and senior officials of both the federal and Lagos State governments.
The celebration featured cultural displays, traditional dances, indigenous music and chants, as well as a procession of Eyo groups, and concluded with special prayers for the President and the nation.
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