The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday commissioned the Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in the Onikan area of Lagos Island, describing it as a major step towards strengthening cultural tourism in the state.
The unveiling came ahead of the Eyo Festival scheduled for Saturday, December 27, 2025, for which the Lagos State Government had earlier issued a travel advisory announcing traffic restrictions on Lagos Island.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Sanwo-Olu said the monument represents the spirit and identity of Lagos, noting that its location within the John Randle Centre makes it a fitting landmark for preserving Yoruba history and culture.
“The Eyo monument represents the essence of who we are as a people. Its presence here makes it a fitting landmark for preserving and showcasing Yoruba art, history and tradition,” the governor said.
According to the state government, the nearly 40-foot-high structure is expected to boost cultural tourism while serving educational purposes and contributing to the economic and cultural development of Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu explained that the Eyo, as a cultural symbol, tells the story of Lagos to the world, adding that the monument would become a unique attraction for both residents and visitors.
“This monument will provide a space where visitors can learn, take photographs and share the history of our state,” he said.
The governor added that the installation reflects Lagos’ commitment to protecting its cultural heritage while positioning the state as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism.
He praised the curator of the monument, Dotun Popoola, describing the work as a reflection of Nigerian creativity and excellence.
“This project shows how indigenous talent can be used to interpret and preserve our history through art,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He also highlighted the facilities available at the John Randle Centre, including exhibition spaces, an amphitheatre, a village square and a gift shop, noting that the centre offers visitors a complete cultural experience.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, stakeholders and traditional institutions, while giving special recognition to the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu.
“Collaboration between government, cultural institutions and traditional authorities is key to sustaining Lagos’ rich cultural legacy,” he said.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Qudus Onikeku, described the Eyo monument as a major cultural achievement for Lagos.
“The monument was designed for people to enter and explore. Inside, the story of Lagos, its communities and its history will be showcased through exhibitions and installations,” Onikeku said.
He disclosed that the structure stands on a six-foot base and rises to almost 40 feet, making it the tallest monument of its kind in Lagos State.
Onikeku also revealed plans to produce a documentary on the monument, the Eyo tradition and Lagos’ cultural heritage, saying it would help deepen public engagement with the state’s history.
Also speaking, the curator, Dotun Popoola, said the monument was conceived as a storytelling structure that reflects the diversity and historical journey of Lagos.
“Visitors will be able to climb into the monument and experience curated spaces and visual narratives that interpret the cultural evolution of Lagos,” he said.
