The 2025 edition of the Eyo Festival, popularly known as the Adamu Orisha Play, kicked off on Saturday with colourful and vibrant processions as residents, tourists and spectators thronged Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, to witness the historic cultural celebration.
The atmosphere at the venue was charged as the iconic white-clad Eyo masquerades, accompanied by rhythmic chants, traditional music and energetic dances, made their appearance, drawing excitement from thousands of onlookers.
According to Channels Television, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are expected to be among the distinguished guests at the event, alongside Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr Kadri Hamzat.
The Eyo Festival, which last held in 2017, is one of Lagos’ most celebrated cultural events, deeply rooted in Yoruba tradition and symbolism.
The festival is traditionally staged to honour prominent personalities, mark significant state occasions or usher in important transitions.
Known for its elaborate rituals and pageantry, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of Lagos, with the Eyo masquerades clad in flowing white robes and carrying staffs known as “opambata,” symbolising peace, discipline and communal unity.
The return of the festival after several years has drawn widespread interest, boosting tourism and reaffirming Lagos’ status as a hub of culture and tradition. Security agencies were also visibly present around the venue to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
The 2025 Eyo Festival is expected to climax later today with more ceremonial displays, reinforcing its enduring significance in the cultural history of Lagos State.
