TINUBU URGES PEACEFUL CELEBRATION OF EYO FESTIVAL, COMMENDS LAGOS CULTURE
ABUJA / LAGOS – President Bola Tinubu on Sunday called on the leaders and participants of the Eyo Festival to ensure that the event, set for Saturday, December 27, 2025, is celebrated in peace.
Speaking at his Ikoyi residence, where he received Eyo leaders alongside his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, the President urged festival participants to avoid alcohol and violence, emphasizing that the festival should reflect unity and harmony.
“The Eyo Festival is a significant cultural celebration, a great remembrance and rekindling of Lagos heritage. Eko is making progress, Nigeria is making progress, and it is in this spirit of advancement that we all rejoice,” Tinubu said.
He prayed for continued blessings on Lagos and Nigeria and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism and banditry. He also encouraged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly during the festive season.
“Celebrate in peace, harmony, love, brotherhood, and sisterhood. Dance in peace, rejoice in peace, and ensure the holidays remain joyous for everyone,” he added.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also addressed the gathering, describing the festival as a unique platform to showcase Lagos State’s rich cultural heritage. He emphasized that the celebration reinforces unity, identity, and shared history among Lagosians.
“It’s an opportunity to display the depth of Lagos culture. Societies without strong cultural identity risk extinction. The Eyo Festival allows all families to come out in regalia, in unity, and in peace, celebrating the season together,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He explained that the appearance of the Adimu Eyo, the highest-ranking group, officially commenced the week-long activities leading to the grand finale on December 27.
Sanwo-Olu also noted that preparations for this year’s festival had been fully concluded, marking the first edition in over eight years. He highlighted that the festival honors four prominent Lagosians:
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Late Mobolaji Johnson, first Military Administrator of Lagos State
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Late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, first Civilian Governor
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Late Sir Michael Otedola, former Civilian Governor
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Late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, mother of President Tinubu
“This festival is historical. For me personally, as governor for six and a half years, this is the first I will witness. The presence of the President makes it even more special,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu added that the President had advised the festival be considered for inclusion in a formal calendar to further promote Lagos as a cultural tourism destination.
