President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s rich tapestry of culture and tradition is a goldmine waiting to be fully tapped for tourism development and global destination branding.
The President made this known on Saturday at the grand finale of the week-long 2025 Eyo Festival at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, where history, colour and pageantry took centre stage.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the iconic festival as more than spectacle, but a powerful statement of national identity and cultural capital.
“It is a reminder that our culture and traditions hold great tourism potential.
“Indeed, our cultural assets can serve as valuable resources for destination promotion.
“The glamour of white-robed figures parading our streets sends a resounding message about our identity and our country,” Tinubu said.
True to the spirit of the occasion, the President appeared in full traditional regalia — a flowing white robe, damask sash, star-studded cap, and the symbolic opambata staff — blending seamlessly into the age-old ritual.
The celebrations had earlier begun with a traditional homage to the President at his Lagos residence on Sunday, December 21, setting the tone for the grand finale.
Dating back to 1854, the Eyo Festival returned this year for the first time in eight years, rekindling a cultural flame many feared had dimmed. The 2025 edition paid tribute to four towering figures in Lagos’ history: former Military Administrator Mobolaji Johnson; former civilian governor Lateef Jakande; former governor Michael Otedola; and Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji.
Describing the carnival as a cultural rebirth, Tinubu said it was “a great rekindling of our culture.”
“The Eyo Festival is a vibrant expression of the rich traditions of Lagos.
“It celebrates exemplary lives and outstanding contributions of distinguished Nigerians,” he said.
He noted that the festival coincided with the bustling “Detty December” season, when Lagos becomes a melting pot for Nigerians in the diaspora and international visitors, urging celebrants to revel responsibly and prioritise safety.
Welcoming guests, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called the event historic, describing it as both a cultural homecoming and a defining moment.
“As our son and father, we are seated with the President to witness a defining moment in Lagos’ cultural history,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He praised the traditional institutions under the leadership of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, for breathing life back into the festival, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic growth without sacrificing cultural heritage.
The event drew a constellation of dignitaries, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, diplomats, and top government officials.
The festival climaxed with colourful cultural displays, traditional dances, indigenous music, and a majestic procession of Eyo groups, ending with prayers offered for the President and the nation — a fitting close to a celebration where culture spoke louder than words.
