Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday commissioned the Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos Island, describing it as a powerful symbol of the state’s cultural identity and a boost to cultural tourism.
The governor said the nearly 40-foot-high monument represents the essence of Lagos heritage and will serve both educational and tourism purposes, contributing to the economic and cultural development of the state.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Sanwo-Olu noted that the monument’s location within the John Randle Centre makes it a fitting landmark for preserving and showcasing Yoruba art, history and tradition. He added that the Eyo, as a cultural symbol, tells the story of Lagos to the world.
According to him, the monument will serve as a unique attraction where visitors can learn about the state’s history, take photographs and share their experiences, while reinforcing Lagos’ commitment to protecting its cultural assets and positioning the state as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism.
The governor commended the curator of the monument, renowned Nigerian artist Dotun Popoola, for his craftsmanship and creativity, describing the work as a reflection of Nigerian excellence and the effective use of indigenous talent to preserve history through art.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the facilities at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, including exhibition spaces, an amphitheatre, a village square, a gift shop and other creative activations designed to immerse visitors in Yoruba culture.
He acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, as well as 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 legacy.
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 milestone for Lagos. He explained that the structure was intentionally designed to allow visitors explore its interior, where the story of Lagos, its communities and history will be presented through exhibitions and installations.
Onikeku added that the monument, created by Dotun Popoola, stands on a six-foot base and rises to almost 40 feet, making it the tallest of its kind in Lagos State. He also disclosed plans to produce a documentary chronicling 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 diversity and historical journey of Lagos, adding that visitors would be able to climb into the monument to experience curated spaces and visual narratives depicting the state’s cultural evolution.