Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday commissioned the iconic Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, Lagos Island, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to preserving the state’s cultural identity.
Describing the nearly 40-foot-high monument as a powerful symbol of Lagos heritage, the governor said the structure would serve both educational and tourism purposes while contributing to the state’s cultural and economic development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sanwo-Olu noted that the Eyo monument captures the essence of Lagos culture and identity, adding that its location within the John Randle Centre makes it a fitting landmark for the preservation and promotion of Yoruba art, history and tradition.
According to him, the Eyo masquerade remains one of the most recognisable cultural symbols of Lagos, telling the story of the state to the world. He said the monument would serve as a major attraction where visitors can learn about Lagos history, take photographs and share cultural experiences.
The governor added that the installation of the monument underscores Lagos State’s resolve to protect its cultural assets while positioning the state as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism.
Sanwo-Olu commended the curator, renowned Nigerian artist Dotun Popoola, for his craftsmanship and intellectual depth, describing the monument as a testament to Nigerian creativity and excellence. He said the project demonstrates how indigenous talent can be harnessed to preserve history through art.
He also highlighted the facilities at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, which include exhibition spaces, an amphitheatre, a village square, a gift shop and other creative activations designed to immerse visitors in Yoruba culture.
The governor acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, relevant stakeholders and traditional institutions, particularly the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, stressing that collaboration between government, cultural institutions and traditional authorities is vital to sustaining Lagos’ rich cultural 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 access to its interior, where exhibitions and installations will showcase the history of Lagos and its communities.
Onikeku said the monument, which stands on a six-foot base and rises to almost 40 feet, is the tallest of its kind in Lagos State. He added that plans are underway to produce a documentary chronicling the story of the monument, the Eyo tradition and the broader cultural heritage of Lagos.
Also speaking, the curator, Dotun Popoola, said the monument was conceived as a storytelling structure that reflects the diverse history and evolution of Lagos. He explained that visitors would be able to climb into the monument to explore curated spaces and visual narratives depicting the state’s cultural journey.