The serene landscapes of Epe came alive last Saturday as the Isimi Lagos Festival 2025 unfolded at the prestigious Isimi Lagos Wellness and Polo Country Estate. This year's edition, titled the Kings Cup 2025, presented a revolutionary vision for sustainable luxury in Africa, blending elite sport with authentic Nigerian cultural experiences.
Royal Presence Elevates Festival Atmosphere
The event gained significant momentum when His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, arrived with his security detail to officially declare the festival open. His presence established an elegant backdrop for a day dedicated to culture, royalty, and sporting excellence.
One of the most anticipated moments was the special presentation of the King's Cup Polo Match, organized in honor of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, who served as royal father of the day. The monarch's appearance brought both dignity and lighthearted moments, captivating guests and participants throughout the event.
Polo Excellence and Networking Opportunities
The Kings Cup Polo Match featured an impressive lineup of players representing Curator University, Precise Lighting, and Nord. Notable riders including Usman Dantata, Olume, Khalifa, Ahmed Balogun, Moye Fairro, Nf Morela, Dante, and Brown Jersey demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork on the lush green field.
Beyond the sporting action, the festival created valuable networking spaces for future business collaborations. Jubril Arogundade, Acting Managing Director of Lagride Nigeria Ltd and Executive Director at CIG Motors Limited, expressed his admiration during an interview with the Guardian.
"I must commend the Managing Director; this is truly an impressive facility," Arogundade stated. "Our brand manager and team will be exploring potential partnerships, particularly regarding engagement with the high-level professionals present today."
He described the festival as an exemplary model of public-private synergy, noting that "Lagos Polo event is taking a new trend in Nigeria; it's like a new market emerging. If this continues, we'll see people from different walks of life coming to enjoy polo sport, representing the next level for polo in Nigeria."
Cultural Integration and Tourism Impact
Ghanaian actress and film producer Juliet Ibrahim highlighted the festival's unique combination of sport, culture, and luxury. "I'm here to experience this beautiful festival. For me, it's about the culture and experience. Even the road trip revealed beauty you don't usually notice in everyday Lagos life. It's calming, relaxing, and the polo match energy is amazing."
She expressed excitement about the fashion shows, music, and performances, describing the event as "a full sensory experience that shows Lagos in a completely new light."
When discussing tourism impact, Ibrahim emphasized how "events like this highlight the beauty and culture of Lagos, and Nigeria as a whole. Many people don't realize how much we have to offer. Every state has its charm, and festivals like this help showcase it globally."
Ambassador Samuel Abiola-Jacobs, Managing Director of Luxury Nigeria Network, praised the event for celebrating Nigerian heritage through sport and culture. "This is my first festival experience, and it's phenomenal. Polo is a game for kings. Nigeria is rich in heritage with monarchies, royal fathers, and royal families embracing this authentic, prestigious sport."
He also acknowledged the Lagos State Government's support, stating their presence "is significant for developing lifestyle, culture, and creativity in Lagos, ensuring the city continues to shine nationally and internationally."
The festival entertainment lineup featured live performances from Nigerian Afrobeat multi-instrumentalist Made Kuti, drumline parades, and captivating fashion shows that maintained high energy throughout the event. Guests enjoyed farm-to-table dining, wellness activities, and art displays that transformed the Isimi Festival into a comprehensive celebration of Nigerian culture and sustainable luxury.
