President Bola Tinubu yesterday attended the 2025 Adamu Orisha Play Eyo Festival, saying Lagos is accentuating the richness of Nigerian culture with the festival.He stated that the festival, which was attended by the host Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his Imo State counterpart, Senator Hope Uzodinma; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwanu Akiolu; captains of industry, former and current public office holders, traditional and political leaders, as well as thousands of Nigerians from the diaspora and foreign visitors, is a reminder that culture and tradition hold great potential for tourism development.The Eyo Festival remains one of Lagos’ most symbolic cultural events, reinforcing the city’s historical roots while projecting its traditions to a global audience. During the festival, different Eyo groups dressed in unique traditional colours, led by Adamu Orisha. The Eyo also had a colourful procession and offered prayers.
President Tinubu, in his special address for the 2025 Eyo Festival held at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island, said the iconic procession of white-robed Eyo masquerades sends a strong message about Lagos’ identity and cultural pride.He said: “It is heartwarming to witness the Eyo 2025 Festival being held in honour of our late distinguished leaders – Brigadier-General Mobolaji Olufunsho Johnson (rtd), Alhaji Lateef KayodeJakande, and, Chief Michael AgboladeOtedola –, as well as my beloved mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, the Iyaloja General of Nigeria and a highly revered women’s leader.
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.
The festival is more than a celebration. It reflects the rich culture and belief of the people of Lagos and underscores the rich culture of our dear country, Nigeria.“The timing of this festival is significant, coinciding with Detty December, a period when Lagos attracts thousands of Nigerians from the Diaspora and foreign visitors. 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 also appreciated Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Hamzat, and the State Executive Council on behalf of the Johnson, Jakande, and Otedola families for the remarkable honour. He said he is especially grateful for the honour bestowed upon his late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji.He also congratulated the people and government of Lagos State, as well as the traditional institutions in the state, especially the Oba of Lagos, HRM Oba Riliwanu Akiolu, on the success of the 2025 Eyo Festival.
