- This year’s festival attracted international attention, underscoring Lagos’ position as a cultural and economic hub in Africa
- The festival’s major attraction, the grand procession of the five principal Eyo Orisa, captivated the audience
- The 2025 Eyo Festival marked a celebration of legacy, leadership, and Lagos’ identity, bridging the past and present
Lagos State came alive on Saturday day, December 27 as the iconic Eyo Festival made a spectacular return to Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), rekindling the grandeur of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural events.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the festival brought together thousands of spectators, political leaders, royalty, traditional institutions, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond, in a dazzling display of Lagos’ heritage and identity.
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The 2025 edition of the festival was held in honour of distinguished late Lagos leaders, including Brigadier-General Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, Chief Michael Agbolade Otedola, and Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji.
The celebration was seen not only as a cultural spectacle but also as a commemoration of the legacies of those who contributed to the state’s growth, leadership, and national prominence. This year’s festival attracted international attention, underscoring Lagos’ position as a cultural and economic hub in Africa.
High-profile dignitaries graced the occasion, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Osuolale Aremu Akiolu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Iyaloja General of Nigeria, and members of the White Cap Chiefs.
The event also drew former Ogun State Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, philanthropists, traditional titleholders, and eminent cultural personalities.
The festival’s major attraction, the grand procession of the five principal Eyo Orisa, captivated the audience. Leading the procession was Eyo Adimu, the highest-ranking masquerade, followed by Eyo Alaketepuppa (Laba), Eyo Oniko, Eyo Ologede, and Eyo Agere, each representing sacred cultural hierarchies.
Additionally, multiple Eyo groups paraded from Iga Idunganran, including Eyo Iga Shasi, Eyo Ijakosoko, Eyo Iga Asaba, Eyo Akogun Olofin, Eyo Iga Eleti Iwase, Eyo Arowa, and Eyo Oba Akintoye, moving through the streets in coordinated formations, chanting traditional songs, and brandishing ceremonial staffs.
President Tinubu, in his address, described the festival as a powerful symbol of Lagos’ cultural depth and a celebration of the state’s enduring legacy. He emphasised that events like the Eyo Festival not only preserve tradition but also boost tourism, foster economic growth, and project Nigeria’s culture to the world.
According to the President, celebrating the lives of past leaders strengthens national pride and inspires future generations to uphold values of integrity, service, and excellence.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, while addressing the crowd, highlighted Lagos’ excellence in deeds and rootedness in heritage, attributing the city’s transformation to the vision and sacrifices of its past leaders.
He reiterated that the Eyo Festival remains the highest traditional honour for Lagos’ illustrious sons and daughters and encouraged both locals and tourists to celebrate the city’s cultural identity. He assured that Lagos continues to be a hub for business, innovation, and tourism, driven by its youthful population and creative energy.
The festival, characterised by vibrant music, dancing, elaborate white regalia, and cultural symbolism, drew thousands of spectators who thronged Tafawa Balewa Square and surrounding streets.
Adding musical energy to the festival were live performances by legendary Nigerian musicians Mr Nice and Kwam 1, who thrilled the audience with classic hits and lively stage performances, blending Lagos’ rich cultural heritage with contemporary entertainment.
Vendors, cultural groups, and local artistes added to the colourful celebration, while security and traffic management measures ensured the event was seamless.
As dusk fell, the ceremonial chants, parades, and rhythmic beats filled the city, leaving spectators in awe of Lagos’ rich history and cultural pride.
The 2025 Eyo Festival marked a celebration of legacy, leadership, and Lagos’ identity, bridging the past and present while showcasing the vibrancy and resilience of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
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