Lagos Commissioner, Aregbe honoured
… As Epe community celebrates culture, legacy
The historic town of Epe came alive last Friday as the 2025 edition of the Kayokayo Festival drew to a colourful and memorable close, with the presentation of an honorary award to Mr. Idris Olajuwon Aregbe, the Lagos State Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture.
The award, presented in recognition of his exceptional contributions to cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and creative innovation, was received on his behalf by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, who also represented the Special Adviser at the event.
Held under the theme, “Sustaining the Legacy”, this year’s festival paid tribute to the late Oba Dr. Shefiu Olatunji Adewale (Bamgbopa Esinlokun I), the Olu Epe of Epe Kingdom, who passed on in April 2024.
In his remarks, Mr. Bajulaiye stated: “This honour reflects Mr. Aregbe’s unwavering dedication to uplifting our cultural identity and inspiring the youth through creative engagement. The Ministry sees this as a collective recognition of our commitment and motivation to further promote the living legacy of Lagos culture.”
Rooted in both Islamic tradition and Yoruba heritage, the Kayokayo Festival commemorates the 19th-century arrival of King Kosoko and his followers in Epe following their exile from Lagos Island. The name “Kayokayo” originates from the Yoruba expression “ka yo ka yo,” meaning “eat and be full”, symbolising abundance, communal harmony, and gratitude
The 2025 edition featured a rich array of spiritual, historical, and cultural activities that embodied the essence of the Epe people. The day began with the annual Kayokayo Festival Prayer, where religious and community leaders offered prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity. This was followed by the Lighting of the Etufu, a symbolic ritual representing enlightenment, harmony, and continuity.
A major crowd-puller was the vibrant Carnival Procession, with cultural troupes and community groups parading through the streets in colourful regalia, accompanied by drumming, chanting, and dancing. The energy seamlessly transitioned into the dignified Royal Procession, which honoured the legacy of the late Monarch with the presence of traditional chiefs, dignitaries, and cultural custodians.
The celebration also emphasised education and social inclusion, with scholarship awards presented to indigent students from Epe. The festival continued with enthralling dance performances, notably by the Lagos State Cultural Troupe from the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, which earned rousing applause for its precision and artistry.
Capping the event was a dynamic live performance by Fuji music maestro, King Sulaimon Alao Adekunle Malaika, whose electrifying stage presence brought the festivities to an ecstatic crescendo.
The event attracted top government officials, cultural enthusiasts, and local residents, making the 2025 Kayokayo Festival one of the most remarkable in recent memory – a testament to the power of heritage celebrated with pride and purpose.
Notably, Mr. Idris Aregbe was also in attendance earlier in the day, personally witnessing the Royal and Carnival processions, reflecting his ongoing commitment to community-based cultural revival and grassroots engagement.
