By: Tijani Salako.

In a vibrant display of culture and heritage, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, alongside his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, and other dignitaries, joined thousands of residents to celebrate the 2026 Lagos Fanti Carnival held at Tafawa Balewa Square.

The carnival, which attracted tourists from across Africa and Europe as well as online audiences, showcased the rich Afro-Brazilian heritage deeply rooted in Lagos Island, reinforcing the state’s growing global cultural appeal.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, described the Fanti Carnival as a unique cultural celebration with deep historical roots.

She said the festival originated from Afro-Brazilian returnees who settled on Lagos Island in the 19th century, noting that it has since evolved into a globally recognised cultural event.

According to her, “The Lagos Fanti Carnival is unique and peculiar to us. It started with Brazilian returnees in the 1840s who settled on Lagos Island. Over time, it has evolved into something global, attracting people from across the world, including those in the diaspora who come to experience the hospitality and culture of Lagos.”

She added that the Sanwo-Olu administration has continued to invest in the festival as part of efforts to position Lagos as a leading cultural and tourism destination.

“The carnival is growing bigger every year. It was successful last year, it is even bigger this year, and next year promises to be bigger and bolder as the government continues to prioritise tourism and entertainment,” she said.

Predominantly held on Lagos Island, the Fanti Carnival highlights the cultural identity of the Aguda (Afro-Brazilian returnee) families, reflecting their history, artistic expression, and communal pride. The celebration featured elaborate costumes, music, and dance, symbolising unity and cultural continuity.

A major highlight of the event was the grand procession of the seven participating communities, each presenting unique colours and cultural displays that underscored the vibrancy of Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Lafiaji community, adorned in red and white, stood out as one of the original pillars of the Afro-Brazilian community, known for its artistic heritage and unity. The Epetedo United Youth Movement, dressed in blue and white, promoted cultural preservation while reflecting the legacy of Kosoko’s returnee settlement.

The Okepopo community dazzled spectators with green and white embroidered costumes symbolising cultural pride, while Okoo-Faji participants, in red, blue, and white, added flair to the procession with energetic performances.

Also, the Brazilian Campos Carreta group, dressed in green and yellow, combined traditional elements with modern creativity through dance and rhythmic drumming. The Olowogbowo community, in yellow and white, showcased elegance and unity, while the Isale-Eko group entertained the audience with dynamic performances.

The colourful displays from these communities reinforced Lagos’ reputation as a cultural hub, celebrating its rich heritage beyond its status as Nigeria’s commercial centre.

The event was further enlivened by performances from Afrobeat artists, whose electrifying shows thrilled attendees and added contemporary appeal to the traditional celebration.

Essential service providers were also on ground to ensure safety, sanitation, traffic management, and proper waste disposal throughout the event.

The success of the carnival was supported by several government agencies, including the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency, the Lagos State Printing Corporation, and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.