The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture hosted a vibrant celebration of Yoruba tradition and craftsmanship at the two-day Aso-Oke Festival.
EpeInsights reports that the event was held from Friday, June 28 to Saturday, June 29, 2025, at the J-Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, Lagos Island.
The event attracted key government officials, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, alongside other top management staff.
The Aso-Oke Festival, designed to spotlight indigenous creativity, innovation, and enterprise, brought together weavers, fashion designers, cultural enthusiasts and the general public in a colourful showcase of Yoruba textile heritage.
Aso-Oke, a handwoven fabric known for its elegance and cultural symbolism took centre stage through exhibitions, panel discussions, runway shows, and interactive cultural displays.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner Toke Benson-Awoyinka reiterated the state government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural identity.
She noted that the Aso-Oke Festival is not only a platform for cultural expression but also a viable avenue for economic empowerment and tourism development.
“This festival reinforces the pride we take in our roots, and more importantly, creates visibility and market access for local artisans and entrepreneurs who are the custodians of this rich tradition,” she said.
Special Adviser Idris Aregbe added that the event was part of a broader strategy to position Lagos as a cultural tourism destination, while Permanent Secretary Mr. Bajulaiye emphasized the importance of sustaining indigenous knowledge systems and transferring them to younger generations.
The J-Randle Centre, a newly revitalized hub for Yoruba history and culture, served as the perfect backdrop for the event, offering guests a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and legacy behind Aso-Oke.
The festival ended on a high note with a vibrant fashion parade, musical performances and a renewed call for continued investment in cultural preservation and creative industries in Lagos State.
