President Bola Tinubu on Saturday joined thousands of Lagos residents, cultural enthusiasts and tourists at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking the return of the iconic cultural parade after an eight-year break.
The colourful event, held at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, saw the President clad in the traditional white agbada, damask sash and the distinctive star-studded hat associated with Eyo masqueraders, while carrying the symbolic opambata staff.
In a statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the Eyo Festival is a powerful reminder of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and its vast potential for tourism development.
“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 President said.
“The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets sends a resounding message about our identity and our country.”
Tinubu described the Eyo Festival as “a great rekindling of our culture,” noting that it celebrates exemplary lives and outstanding contributions of distinguished Nigerians.
“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos. It celebrates exemplary lives and outstanding contributions of distinguished Nigerians,” he added.
The President noted that the festival coincided with the annual “Detty December” festivities, a period when Lagos attracts Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors, further strengthening the state’s status as a global tourism destination.
He urged participants and revellers to celebrate peacefully and ensure the safety of all attendees.
The Eyo Festival, which dates back to 1854, returned in 2025 for the first time in eight years. This year’s edition honoured four eminent late Lagos personalities: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor Lateef Jakande; former governor Michael Otedola; and the President’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji.
In his welcome address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the event as historic and a cultural homecoming for the President.
“As our son and father, we are seated with the President to witness a defining moment in Lagos’ cultural history,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor also commended traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, for their role in reviving the historic festival.
