Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has unveiled the newly constructed Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos Island, in a move aimed at strengthening the state’s cultural tourism and preserving its rich heritage.
The commissioning took place ahead of the Eyo Festival scheduled for Saturday, 27 December 2025, as the Lagos State Government earlier issued a travel advisory announcing traffic restrictions across parts of Lagos Island to manage movement and ensure public safety during the festivities.
Speaking at the unveiling, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the monument rising to nearly 40 feet, a powerful symbol of Lagos’ identity, history and cultural pride. He noted that its location within the John Randle Centre makes it a strategic landmark for showcasing Yorùbá art, tradition and history to both residents and international visitors.
“The Eyo tells the story of Lagos to the world,” the governor said, adding that the monument would serve as a unique attraction where visitors can learn, take photographs and engage with the state’s historical narrative.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Gboyega Akosile, titled “Sanwo-Olu commissions Eyo monument, reaffirms commitment to Lagos’ cultural identity,” the installation is expected to significantly boost Lagos’ cultural tourism drive while contributing to education, creativity and economic growth.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the project reinforces the state’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural assets while positioning Lagos as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism. He commended the monument’s curator, Dotun Popoola, for his craftsmanship and intellectual depth, describing the work as a strong reflection of Nigerian creativity and excellence.
The governor also highlighted the offerings at the John Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History, noting that the facility provides a fully immersive cultural experience through its exhibition halls, amphitheatre, village square, gift shop and creative installations.
While acknowledging the contributions of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, cultural stakeholders and traditional institutions, Governor Sanwo-Olu paid special tribute to the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, stressing that sustained collaboration between government, traditional authorities and cultural institutions remains vital to preserving Lagos’ heritage.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of the John Randle Centre, Qudus Onikeku, described the Eyo Monument as a major cultural milestone for Lagos. He explained that the structure was intentionally designed to allow visitors explore its interior, where exhibitions and installations will narrate the story of Lagos, its communities and its evolution over time.
Onikeku revealed that the monument stands on a six-foot base and rises to almost 40 feet, making it the tallest Eyo-inspired structure in Lagos State. He also disclosed plans to produce a documentary film chronicling the monument’s creation, the Eyo tradition and the broader cultural heritage of Lagos, aimed at deepening public engagement.
Also speaking, curator Dotun Popoola said the monument was conceived as a storytelling structure that reflects the diversity and historical journey of Lagos. He noted that visitors would be able to climb into the monument to explore curated spaces and visual narratives interpreting the state’s cultural evolution.
The unveiling of the Eyo Monument further underscores Lagos State’s strategy to leverage culture and creativity as key drivers of tourism, economic development and global cultural relevance.
