Lagos Showcases Cultural Pride at 2025 World Egungun Festival in Ibadan

The Lagos State Government has proudly reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Yoruba heritage by participating in the 2025 World Egungun Festival held from May 14 to 16 at Liberty Stadium, Ibadan.

Representing the Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, led the Lagos delegation at the three-day cultural celebration. The festival, themed “Connecting Through Tradition and Culture,” was organized by the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism in partnership with the Adayeba Cultural Tourism Foundation.

Lagos State's participation was marked by an electrifying display of rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional drumming, chants, vibrant costumes, and choreographed Egungun performances. The delegation, coordinated by the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture in collaboration with the Lagos State Oje Religious Association, showcased masquerades from across the five divisions of Lagos (IBILE), including iconic figures like Wowo Ado, Ayoka, Abobade, Egungun Madanwo, and Egungun Oyadolu.

Mr. Bajulaiye commended the cultural harmony among communities, describing the performances as “a testament to the strength and beauty of Yoruba unity.” He emphasized the importance of such festivals in fostering intergenerational dialogue, community cohesion, and international cultural diplomacy.

Dignitaries present at the event included Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland and former Oyo State Governor, who served as the festival’s royal host. Also in attendance were Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; Her Royal Majesty Olori Enitan Ogunwusi; and renowned Ifa priest and cultural icon, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon.

Oyo State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, highlighted the festival’s regional significance. According to him, it successfully brought together Egungun masquerades from South-West Nigeria and the Benin Republic, advancing cross-border cultural appreciation and heritage preservation.

The festival featured a diverse programme including Egungun processions, Fuji music concerts, cultural exhibitions, and the much-anticipated Amala Fiesta, a culinary celebration of Yoruba cuisine. It also served as an economic boost for local artisans, vendors, and creatives who displayed indigenous crafts, fashion, and food.

Other Lagos officials in attendance included Mr. Taoreed Dosunmu, Director of Administration and Human Resources (MTAC); Mr. Idowu Johnson, Director of Arts and Culture / CEO, Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture; and Mr. Akeem Owolabi, Head of Creative Industry and Heritage (LSCAC), among others.

Lagos' presence at the 2025 World Egungun Festival not only reinforced its cultural leadership in Nigeria but also underscored its dedication to promoting Yoruba traditions on a global stage.