Tinubu celebrates return of Eyo festival, highlights tourism value of culture
President Bola Tinubu has described Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage as a powerful tool for boosting tourism, as he joined thousands of residents and visitors at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival in Lagos.
The President attended the colourful cultural parade on Saturday at the Tafawa Balewa Square, marking the return of the iconic festival after an eight-year break.
Dressed in the traditional white attire of the Eyo masquerade — complete with a damask sash, a distinctive hat and the symbolic opambata staff, Tinubu participated in the celebration alongside Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other dignitaries.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President said the festival underscored the immense tourism potential embedded in Nigeria’s diverse cultures and traditions.
According to him, cultural expressions such as the Eyo Festival can serve as effective platforms for promoting Nigeria as a global tourist destination.
Tinubu noted that the striking sight of white-robed masqueraders parading through Lagos sends a strong message about the nation’s identity and cultural pride.
He described the festival as a meaningful revival of tradition and a celebration of Lagos’ rich history.
“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the culture of Lagos.
” It celebrates exemplary lives and the outstanding contributions of distinguished Nigerians,” the President said.
The Eyo Festival, which dates back to 1854, was staged this year for the first time since 2017.
The 2025 edition honoured four notable late Lagos personalities: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor Lateef Jakande; former governor Michael Otedola; and the President’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji.
Tinubu also pointed out that the festival coincided with the annual “Detty December” celebrations, a period when Lagos experiences a surge in visitors from the Nigerian diaspora and foreign tourists.
He urged participants and revellers to celebrate peacefully and prioritise safety throughout the festivities.
In his welcome remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the occasion as historic, referring to it as a cultural homecoming for the President.
He praised traditional institutions in the state, under the leadership of the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, for their role in reviving the festival.
The event attracted large crowds of cultural enthusiasts, reaffirming the Eyo Festival’s status as one of Lagos’ most enduring and symbolic traditions.
