President Bola Tinubu yesterday made a historic appearance at the grand finale of the 2025 Eyo Festival, marking the return of the iconic “Adamu Orisha Play” after an eight-year hiatus.
Dressed in traditional Eyo regalia—a flowing white robe, a damask sash, and a star-emblazoned hat—the President carried the ceremonial opambata (staff) as he joined thousands of revelers at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS).
The week-long celebration began on December 21, when families of the honorees paid homage to the President at his Lagos residence.
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In a departure from tradition, which usually honours one or three individuals, the 2025 edition celebrated four distinguished figures whose leadership shaped Lagos State.
They included Brigadier-General Mobolaji Johnson, the state’s first military administrator; Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, its first civilian governor; Sir Michael Otedola, a former civilian governor during the Third Republic; and Alhaja Abibat Mogaji, the former Iyaloja-General and mother of President Bola Tinubu.
The President described the honorees as “leaders and builders” whose visionary work nurtured Lagos to international prominence.
He called the festival a “great rekindling of our culture.”
Tinubu noted that the festival’s timing aligns perfectly with “Detty December” a period when Lagos sees a massive influx of Nigerians from the diaspora and foreign tourists.
“Our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion,” the President stated.
“The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets sends a resounding message about our identity and our country.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his welcome address, described the President’s participation as a “historic homecoming.”
He praised the traditional institutions, led by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for their leadership in reviving the sacred rite.
“The Eyo Festival is far more than pageantry,” the Governor said. “It is a living archive of our Yoruba heritage and a symbol of unity, purity, and the communal strength of Lagos.”
He assured that while his administration focuses on socio-economic growth, it will never abandon the state’s cultural roots.
The colourful event featured traditional music, indigenous chants and a grand procession by various Eyo groups.
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Distinguished guests in attendance included Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka; as well as members of the diplomatic corps and other senior federal and state officials.
The grand finale concluded with special prayers offered for the President’s leadership and for the continued peace and progress of Nigeria.
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