Lagos: Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has unveiled the 32-foot Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, describing it as a symbol of culture and identity. Sanwo-Olu stated that the unveiling represents a significant and wholesome cultural experience for both residents and tourists, reflecting the depth of Lagos’ cultural heritage and reaffirming the state’s position as a cradle of culture and tradition.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sanwo-Olu expressed that the unveiling is a simple yet significant event, celebrating the Eyo Adimu Orisa Festival and its importance to Lagos and its people. He commended the monument’s creator, Mr. Dotun Popoola, for using his artistic skills to project Lagos as a symbol of culture, creativity, and history. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that preserve, promote, and showcase Lagos’ rich cultural heritage to residents and visitors alike.
In his welcome address, the Chief Executive Offi
cer of the Centre, Mr. Qudus Onikeku, highlighted that the 32-foot monument, mounted on a six-foot base, was designed to tell the story and history of Eyo in Lagos State. Onikeku also announced plans to produce a documentary film on the Eyo festival, featuring Erelu Abiola Dosumu, a respected custodian of Yoruba culture in the state, to further document and preserve its cultural significance.
Reacting to the unveiling, Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, Abiola Dosumu, commended Sanwo-Olu for his contributions to the preservation and celebration of Lagos’ cultural heritage and traditions. She praised the governor for his proactive approach to infrastructural development across the state, noting that cultural development thrives best in an environment supported by strong infrastructure.
Earlier, the creator of the Eyo Monument, Mr. Dotun Popoola, described the almost 40-foot statue as a commitment to the promotion of culture and tradition. Popoola expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for its support in exec
uting the project, describing the monument as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Eyo tradition. He emphasized that the artwork is intended to inspire pride, cultural consciousness, and continuity among present and future generations.