- Tinubu attends Eyo Festival after eight-year break.
- President says culture can boost tourism.
- Event aligns with Lagos “Detty December.”
- Festival honours late Lagos leaders.
President Bola Tinubu joined thousands of residents and visitors at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking the return of the iconic Lagos cultural parade after an eight-year absence.
The colourful ceremony took place at the Tafawa Balewa Square, where the President appeared in the traditional white Eyo robe, complete with a damask sash, star-studded hat and the symbolic opambata staff.
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In a statement released by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President said Nigeria’s culture and traditions should be deliberately promoted as tools for tourism development.
“It is a reminder that our culture and traditions hold great tourism potential. Our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion,” Tinubu said.
He added that the sight of hundreds of white-robed masqueraders parading the streets sends a strong message about Nigeria’s identity and heritage.
Describing the festival as a revival of Lagos tradition, Tinubu said the Eyo celebration honours exemplary lives and outstanding contributions to society.
“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos. It celebrates distinguished Nigerians who have served the state and the nation,” he said.
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The President noted that the festival coincided with “Detty December,” a period when Lagos welcomes Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign tourists, further boosting the city’s cultural appeal.
The 2025 Eyo Festival honoured four prominent late Lagos figures: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson, former civilian governor Lateef Jakande, former governor Michael Otedola, and Tinubu’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his welcome address, described the occasion 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.
He also commended traditional institutions under the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, for reviving the festival.
