The Governor of Lagos StateBabajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the Eyo Festival as a vital platform to showcase Lagos not only as the economic and commercial center of Nigeria, but also as a cultural and tourism center with global appeal.
The governor spoke on Sunday during the Ijade Opa Eyo procession at Lagos House, Marina, when Olori Eyo, White Cap chiefs, traditional leaders and Eyo followers paid tribute to him and representatives of distinguished personalities who will be honored at this year’s Eyo Festival, scheduled for Saturday, December 27.
Among those honored at the 2025 Eyo Festival are the late General Iyaloja, Chief Abibat Mogaji, mother of President Bola Tinubu; the first military governor of Lagos State, Mobolaji Johnson; the first civil Governor, Alhaja Lateef Jakande; and the Governor of the Third Republic, Sir Michael Otedola.
Before the main celebration, Lagos Island came alive with the traditional Ijade Opa Eyo procession, which passed through key historical sites, reaffirming the state’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
The ritual procession, marked by the ceremonial bearing of the Opambata, symbolized guidance, protection and the transmission of tradition from one generation to another, as Lagos reflected on its roots while moving forward with dignity.
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Speaking at the event, which featured songs, prayers and ceremonial performances of the Adimu Orisa festival led by Olori Eyo and Akinsiku of Lagos, Chief Adebola Dosunmu, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the departure formally marked the beginning of activities for the Eyo Festival.
Describing the festival as a powerful expression of identity and continuity, the governor noted that culture remains essential to the relevance and survival of any people.
He said: “The Eyo Festival to be held on Saturday will be a day of joy and pride for Lagos. It will be colorful and joyful, showcasing the depth of our rich cultural heritage and attracting local and international visitors.
“People without culture are headed for extinction. Culture defines what we live for, what we pass on and what we transfer to the next generation. Through this festival, we will demonstrate that Lagos is not only the Center of Excellence and commercial nerve center of Nigeria, but also a fusion point of culture and tourism.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the participants for their great participation and highlighted the symbolic black and white attire worn by the adherents as a strong representation of unity, peace and progress.
He also thanked the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for championing the revival of the Eyo Festival after eight years, and commended traditional leaders and worshipers for preserving the cultural identity of Lagos.
“I want to thank you all for coming in large numbers to demonstrate the elegance and richness of our culture. The black and white colors shown today strongly symbolize unity and progress,” he said.
Earlier, the Olori Eyo, Chief Adebola Dosunmu, explained that the Ijade Opa Eyo procession is part of the preparatory rites leading up to the main Eyo Festival, noting that the departure confirms the certainty of the upcoming celebration.
According to him, the procession includes visits to family homes, traditional palaces, the Oba’s Palace, the Governor’s residence and other important places, including paying homage at the residence of President Bola Tinubu.
Dosunmu also outlined key cultural rules that guide the festival, such as restrictions on footwear, caps and scarves, and a ban on photographing sacred Orishas, while allowing photographs of Eyo masquerades.
He emphasized that culture and religion are different and highlighted that culture predates modern religions and remains an inherited identity passed down from generation to generation.
The Ijade Opa Eyo procession once again underlined Lagos’ determination to preserve its ancient customs, reinforcing culture as a unifying force and vital pillar of the state’s history, identity and tourist attraction.