Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has strongly reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Lagos. This pledge comes as the state prepares to host the iconic Eyo Festival, also known as the Adimu Orisa Play, on Saturday, December 27, 2025.
A Festival Dedicated to Lagos Icons
The governor made this declaration while receiving representatives from the families of four distinguished late Lagosians. This year's festival is a special tribute to Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, Sir Michael Agbolade Otedola, and Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji. Governor Sanwo-Olu hosted the families at the Ijade Opa Eyo ceremony, held at the State House in Marina, which officially flagged off the festival preparations.
He emphasized that the event would be a day of immense pride and joy for the state. "It will be a colourful ceremony that showcases the depth of our rich cultural heritage," Sanwo-Olu stated. The governor further explained that such cultural expressions are vital, asserting that "people without a culture will be facing extinction and will not be relevant."
More Than a Celebration: A Statement of Identity
Governor Sanwo-Olu positioned the festival as a key demonstration of Lagos's multifaceted identity. "It will be a cultural event to demonstrate to all of our friends that Lagos is not only a centre of excellence, a centre of commerce, but it is also a melting point of culture and tourism," he said. The Eyo Festival, a historic Yoruba cultural spectacle, features masquerades dressed in distinctive white robes (Agbada) and hats (Akete). Traditionally, it serves as a funeral rite for a departed Oba, chief, or prominent Lagosian.
The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, had earlier announced that the festival would be held at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS). He clarified that this year's celebration would be confined to Lagos Island and warned that any form of misconduct would not be tolerated.
Promoting Unity and Economic Growth
Oba Akiolu described the forthcoming festival as a celebration of Lagos's rich cultural identity and communal spirit. He was keen to note that the Eyo Festival has no links to deity worship but is rather a symbolic expression of heritage and unity among the people of Lagos.
"The Eyo Festival remains the largest mass cultural gathering in Nigeria today," the monarch stated. "It draws people from all parts of the country and beyond, and it showcases the peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, and collective aspirations of Lagosians."
He highlighted the broader benefits of hosting the event, noting it would stimulate economic activities through tourism, commerce, and hospitality. Additionally, Oba Akiolu pointed out that such gatherings boost social cohesion and can contribute to a reduction in crime and violence.
The festival's return is significant as it last held six years ago. The Ijade Opa Eyo ceremony itself is a profound ritual. The opambata (staff) borne during the procession symbolizes guidance, protection, and the sacred passage of heritage from one generation to the next. In this ceremonial movement, the city remembers its foundation and proceeds with dignity into the future.
