Photo: (L–R) The Director General of NTDA, Dr. Ola Awakan with HRM Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, Oba of Lagos, at the Iga Idunganran Palace
By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has initiated strategic engagements to reposition the Eyo Festival as a premier cultural tourism attraction, signaling its commitment to elevating Nigeria’s heritage events onto the global stage.
NTDA Director‑General Dr. Ola Awakan paid a courtesy visit to the Iga Idunganran Palace of His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, underscoring the Authority’s renewed focus on transforming major cultural festivals into world‑class tourism assets. During the meeting, Dr. Awakan emphasized that the Eyo Festival is a cornerstone of Lagos culture and a powerful tool for destination branding.
“The Eyo Festival represents the soul of Lagos culture and stands as a powerful tool for destination branding,” Dr. Awakan stated. “Our focus is to work closely with the Lagos Royal Institution to elevate the Eyo Festival into a world‑class cultural attraction that mirrors the vibrancy, identity, and history of Lagos.”
Oba Akiolu welcomed NTDA’s initiative, expressing strong support for a coordinated national approach to promoting the festival. “The Eyo Festival is a heritage treasure and the heartbeat of Lagos tradition. We welcome collaborations that will help safeguard its legacy and promote it as a cultural pride for future generations,” he said.
The monarch urged NTDA to remain steadful in advancing tourism values that reflect integrity, heritage protection, and cultural growth, highlighting the need for sustainable development around the festival.
Discussions between NTDA and palace officials focused on structuring the 2025 Eyo Festival to enhance visitor participation, create economic opportunities for local communities, and strengthen Lagos’ position as a premier cultural destination.
Following the palace engagement, Dr. Awakan and his team were received by Hon. Taiwo Oyekan, Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government and Chairman of the 2025 Eyo Festival Planning Committee. Hon. Oyekan assured NTDA of the committee’s readiness to collaborate in delivering a successful, tourism‑driven festival.
Dr. Awakan was accompanied by NTDA South‑West Zonal Coordinator Mrs. Alice Akinsola and other senior officials, reinforcing the Authority’s commitment to technical support, enhanced promotion, and cultural preservation for the Eyo Festival.
