April 20th, 2025 — Lagos Island turned into a moving canvas of colour, culture, and celebration this Easter, as the Fanti Carnival lit up the city with pride and rhythm. It all began in front of King’s College, where each carnival group showed up boldly, draped in vibrant colours and rooted in their heritage.
From Okofaaji’s red, white, and blue to Lafiaji’s powerful red and white, Campos’ yellow and green, and Epetedo’s white and blue, the streets transformed into a living storybook. As the groups moved through the TBS route, the compère called their names with pride and excitement, adding historical commentary and flair to the flow of the parade.
The energy was unmatched. DJ Spinall controlled the sound with hit after hit. Asake’s voice blasted through the speakers, keeping the crowd moving, while the Epetedo procession glided through with Adekunle Gold’s music in full rotation. It was only fitting as AG Baby (Adekunle Kosoko) himself stood tall in the VIP section, representing his Epetedo roots in style.
Celebrities, Lagos chiefs, dignitaries, politicians and cultural leaders stood side by side with locals. Hon. Desmond Elliot wasn’t just watching; he was in the parade with the Olowogbowo group, dressed in their yellow and white regalia. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu arrived ready to celebrate and, in true Lagos island style, became DJ Sanwoolu on the wheels of steel, this sent revellers into a full party mood and frenzy, screaming, laughing, and dancing along. Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson, was also present, taking it all in with pride and grace.
At the TBS arena, a heritage exhibition told the story of the Afro-Brazilian journey, through photography, fashion, and design. Food vendors served delicious plates, Zobo drinks, ice cream, small chops etc were flowing while families and friends soaked in the sights, sounds, and joy around them.
The Fanti Carnival has deep roots. It traces back to the 1890s when Afro-Brazilian returnees, also known as the Aguda, settled in Lagos Island. They brought their Catholic traditions home. What started as a small Easter celebration has evolved into a large-scale cultural reunion.
This year marked something special. For the first time, all seven carnival groups united in one coordinated celebration, fully backed by the Lagos State Government and Ministry of Tourism. Each neighbourhood; Lafiaji, Olowogbowo, Epetedo, Campos, Oke Kpokpo, Isale Eko and Okofaaji brought its unique spirit, but marched together as one Lagos.
The Lagos State Governor made a promise: next year will be bigger. But for now, this year’s win was how all Seven carnival groups, once celebrating separately. They came together under one banner. It was Lagos Island, united, colourful, and proud.
This is not just culture. This is Lagos.
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