The Chairperson and Convener of Asiwaju Renewed Hope (ARH’23), Kemi Olokode-Ayelabola has added her voice to the upcoming Eyo masquerade festival noting that it would have a huge impact on Lagos economy, estimating that the state could benefit billions of naira from the festive activities, come December 27, 2025.
Kemi, a behavioral, developmental and child/young persons care professional, in a statement she signed and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, said the resuscitation of the festival and the infrastructural development in the state were in line with the roadmap laid down by the former Governor of Lagos State who is now President and Commander-in- Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
She also commended the Governor of Lagos State Mr. Babajide Olushola Sanwoolu for creating an enabling environment where cultural and religious harmony are resigning. The ARH convener also hailed organisers of Eyo Carnival, led by Olori Eyo and Akinsiku of Lagos, Chief Adebola Dosunmu, saying that the festival symbolizes unity among Nigerians not just the people of Lagos.
Kemi stressed that the festival will as well give business opportunities to artisans, including those who sew thousand uniforms for masquerades as well as drivers, musicians, food vendors, artistes among others to make money for themselves.
Her statement reads in parts, “I have no doubt that the reactivation of the Eyo festival will generate billions of naira to the economy of Lagos State, a mega city by all standards. Beyond the economics, the masquerades will also add to the esthetic value of the state and further serve as a testament to Lagos heritage and identity.
“This great cultural remembrance, is well thought out to boost the rich culture and traditions of Lagosians, and this is happening eight years after the festival held on May 20, 2017. More interesting is the fact that this year’s festival honours eminent Lagos personalities whose legacies continue to define the state. However, I will like to advice revellers to celebrate in moderation and make the 2025 Eyo Carnival to be peaceful, harmonious, orderly and to also embody the essence of the festival. I equally wish everyone merry Christmas and a prosperous 2026,” Kemi stated.
