 |
| Image: Google |
The iconic Eyo Festival, also known as the Adamu Orisha Play, made a vibrant return to Lagos on Saturday, drawing large crowds of residents, tourists, culture enthusiasts and dignitaries to the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) for its 2025 celebration. The colourful cultural event once again placed Lagos’ rich heritage on full display, reaffirming its status as one of the most important traditional festivals in Nigeria.
Clad in their signature flowing white robes and wide-brimmed hats, hundreds of Eyo masquerades paraded through the venue, performing ritual dances and symbolic movements accompanied by traditional chants and drumming. Their appearance created a striking visual spectacle that reflected centuries-old Yoruba customs and spiritual expressions tied to the history of Lagos.
The festival, which had not been staged since 2017, marked a major cultural comeback and was met with excitement from both locals and visitors who gathered to witness the historic celebration. Many attendees described the event as a powerful reminder of Lagos’ identity, resilience and deep-rooted traditions.
According to Channels Television, President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, were among the high-profile personalities expected to grace the occasion. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, were also listed among dignitaries anticipated at the ceremony, alongside traditional rulers, political leaders, diplomats and cultural stakeholders.
The Eyo Festival holds special significance in Lagos history, traditionally performed to commemorate major occasions such as the ascension of a new Oba (king), the remembrance of prominent individuals, or important state events. Over the years, it has evolved into a major cultural attraction that draws global attention and promotes tourism in the state.
In a related development ahead of the festival, Governor Sanwo-Olu on Friday inaugurated the newly completed Eyo Monument located at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos Island. The monument was unveiled as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Yoruba heritage.
The Eyo Monument is designed to serve as a cultural landmark that celebrates the symbolism of the Eyo masquerade while educating younger generations about its historical relevance. According to the state government, the structure is expected to boost cultural tourism, create economic opportunities, and strengthen historical awareness among residents and visitors alike.
Speaking during the unveiling, state officials highlighted the importance of investing in cultural infrastructure as a means of preserving identity and stimulating creative industries. The John Randle Centre itself has been positioned as a hub for cultural learning, exhibitions, and heritage-driven activities in Lagos.
The return of the Eyo Festival also underscores Lagos State’s commitment to reviving traditional events that reflect its rich past while adapting them to contemporary audiences. Beyond entertainment, the festival serves as a platform for cultural education, unity, and economic engagement, with traders, artisans, photographers and hospitality businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors.
For many spectators, the 2025 edition offered not just a celebration but a reconnection with history, spirituality and communal pride. As the white-clad masquerades danced through TBS, chants echoed and drums rolled, the atmosphere reflected the enduring strength of Yoruba tradition in a rapidly modernising city.
With renewed interest and government backing, the Eyo Festival continues to stand as one of Lagos’ most powerful cultural symbols — a living tradition that bridges generations while projecting the city’s heritage onto the global stage.
Watch clip below:
#EyoFestival
#Lagos
#NollywoodTimes
No comments:
Post a Comment