The Executive Chairman of Eti-Osa Local Government, Omo’ba Adeola Alimot Adetoro, has unveiled the Eti-Osa Carnival 2026, describing it as a strategic initiative to preserve the council’s cultural heritage, boost tourism, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at the Civic Centre, Lekki, Adetoro said the carnival would serve as a platform to showcase Eti-Osa’s rich cultural identity while unlocking new economic opportunities for residents.

She said the local government is endowed with a rich cultural history, royal institutions, natural resources and scenic landscapes that deserve greater recognition both within and outside Nigeria.

According to her, the annual carnival will feature traditional dances, folklore, royal processions, indigenous music, colourful costumes and other artistic performances aimed at preserving the community’s heritage for future generations.

Adetoro said the event would also promote tourism by showcasing Eti-Osa’s beaches, waterfronts, hospitality facilities, historical landmarks and other attractions to local and international visitors.
She noted that the initiative is expected to create business and employment opportunities for artists, musicians, performers, fashion designers, photographers, transport operators, event planners, food vendors, hospitality operators, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and young entrepreneurs.

The council chairman added that the carnival would strengthen social cohesion by bringing together traditional institutions, community associations, government agencies, corporate organisations and residents in celebration of the area’s cultural diversity.

She also said the event would provide a platform for young talents in music, dance, filmmaking, visual arts, costume design and digital content creation to showcase their skills.

Adetoro commended the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, MyAven Integrated Limited, traditional rulers, community leaders, sponsors and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative and urged investors, development partners and members of the global tourism and creative industries to partner with the council.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of MyAven Integrated Limited, the lead partner for the carnival, said the initiative was conceived to promote Eti-Osa’s cultural heritage and economic potential while fostering unity among its communities.

He said the carnival would position Eti-Osa as a leading destination for tourism, entertainment, culture and investment, adding that proceeds from the initiative would support community development.

The event also featured the unveiling of the Eti-Osa Academy Community Foundation, which will focus on healthcare, education, skills development, HIV/AIDS awareness, maternal and child healthcare and other social intervention programmes.

According to representatives of the foundation, community outreach centres will be established across Eti-Osa to expand access to essential services and improve the welfare of vulnerable residents.

The Eti-Osa Carnival 2026 is expected to attract cultural groups, performers, tourists, businesses and residents in what organisers describe as a major celebration of culture, creativity and sustainable development.