Lagos is preparing for another historic night of culture and music as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu leads the 2025 edition of the Ariya Eko Music Festival.
The celebration, which will take place at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre on Sunday, October 5, is set to spotlight some of Nigeria’s most respected cultural pathfinders.
This year’s edition is dedicated to honouring men and women who have spent decades shaping Nigeria’s cultural and musical identity. Many of these icons, now in their seventies and eighties, will be recognised for their extraordinary talent, resilience, and lifelong contributions to the growth of indigenous music and the creative industry.
Among those to be celebrated are Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, Juju legend at 84, King Jossy Friday, the 85-year-old pioneer of Bolojo music, Ken Caleb Olumese, 81, fondly known as the King of Lagos Nightlife, and General Kollington Ayinla, the 72-year-old Fuji maestro. Elder Tunde Kelani, 77, acclaimed filmmaker and cinematographer, Evangelist J.A. Adelakun “Amona,” gospel music icon, and Ghariokwu Lemi, 69, globally renowned designer of iconic album covers, are also on the roll call.
Others include filmmaker Ola Balogun at 80, Pa Ajobiewe, 69, master of Esa Oriki, Sir Emma Ogosi, 85, gospel star Evangelist Dr Funmi Aragbaiye at 70, Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, 77, classical music virtuoso, Admiral Dele Abiodun, 77, Juju legend, Laolu Akins, 78, influential music producer, Samba queen Stella Monye at 69, Dr Mrs D.A. Fasoyin, 85, one of Nigeria’s oldest gospel singers, and Uncle Toye Ajagun, 80, another Juju veteran.
The night will also feature a “Do You Remember” segment where younger artists will pay homage to these giants by performing their classic songs exactly as they were originally rendered. This promises to revive the golden sounds of Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Waka, Fuji, and Gospel, immersing the audience in the richness of Nigeria’s musical heritage.
Through this initiative, Governor Sanwo-Olu is once again affirming his commitment to celebrating creativity and safeguarding Lagos’ cultural history. Since assuming office, he has consistently backed efforts that preserve the legacies of those who paved the way in arts and culture.
The festival is organised each year by Evergreen Musical Company Ltd in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, led by Commissioner Mrs Toke Benson Awoyinka. According to the organisers, the Ariya Eko Music Festival is more than an evening of entertainment. It is a statement that Lagos, beyond being a bustling commercial hub, remains a guardian of African heritage and tradition.
The 2025 edition is expected to draw cultural enthusiasts, musicians, government officials, and members of the public in what promises to be one of the most memorable nights in Lagos’ cultural calendar.
