As preparation gather momentum for this year’s edition of Ariya Eko Music Festival holding at the prestigious Shell Hall, Muson Center on Sunday October 5, 2025, organisers have said that the event is aimed at recognizing and celebrating outstanding personalities in the Nigerian cultural sector.
Some notable icons shall be awarded for their toil and creativity at this year’s Ariya Eko Festival. This no doubt will be another time in Lagos history that we shall witness the gatherings of Stars.
Notable icons such as Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, MFR (84, Juju Music Legend), King Jossy Friday (85) Bolojo Music Pioneer), Ken Caleb Olumese (81, the King of Lagos Nightlife), General Kollington Ayinla (72, Fuji Music Maestro), Elder Tunde Kelani (77, Iconic Cinematographer and Filmmaker), Evangelist JA Adelakun (Amona, Gospel Music Icon), Ghariokwu Lemi ( 69, World Acclaimed King of album Cover designs), Ola Balogun (80, Filmmaker, Scriptwriter and musician), Pa Ajobiewe ( 69, Projenitor of Esa Oriki), Sir Emma Ogosi( 85, Music Icon), Evangelist Dr Funmi Aragbaiye 70, Gospel Musician), Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli MFR ( 77, Global Classical Icon ), Admiral Dele Abiodun 77, Laolu Akins ( 78, Foremost Music Producer), Stella Monye (69, Samba Queen), Dr Mrs DA Fasoyin ( Oldest Female Gospel Musician 85 years) , Uncle Toye Ajagun ( Juju music Veteran 80 years) and others.
With an event of this magnitude Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is adding yet another feather to his cap by distinguishing himself as one who has respect for human creativity and achievements, hence he is setting out to honour Multiple Icons mainly aged between 65years and 80 years for their remarkable contributions to music and culture- in their lifetime.
Since Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s inception into office, he has had an excellent track record as a listening governor and one who is deeply and passionately committed to the preservation of Lagos history.
The event which is a yearly event will also witness a “Do You Remember Segment” where young musicians will perform songs of some of these icons the way they did it in their younger years. Attendees shall experience the best of indigenous music – that is, Highlife, Juju, Sakara, Waka, Gospel, Fuji, and others.
ARIYA EKO is an event that is being put together by Evergreen Musical Company Ltd in Partnership with *Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and through the leadership of the indefatigable Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs Toke Benson Awoyinka who is about to send a strong message that Lagos does not just set the pace in commerce and governance but also protects and unmasks those behind the pillars of African Cultural Heritage.
Packaged by Olayinka Agboola
