A night of nostalgia, rhythm, and cultural pride was well-spent as legendary Nigerian musicians and cultural icons were celebrated at the Ariya Eko Independence Music Festival held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos recently.
Themed “Musical Journey of a Nation @ 65,” the festival held on October 5 honoured veteran artistes who have shaped Nigeria’s indigenous soundscape and preserved its musical heritage across generations.
Among those honoured was Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey (MFR), 84, who received the Ariya Eko Timeless Contributions Award.
Also recognized were King Jossy Friday (85), who received the Cultural Innovator Award; Ken Caleb Olumese (81), known as the “King of Lagos Nightlife,” honoured with the Nightlife Legend Award; Evang. (Dr.) Funmi Aragbaiye (Mama Sioni), recipient of the Gospel Pioneers Award; and Tunde Kelani, an award-winning cinematographer and filmmaker, who bagged the Distinguished Filmmaker Award.
Other awardees included Lemi Ghariokwu Lemi Abiodun, celebrated for his iconic album sleeve designs; Uncle Toye Ajagun, Alhaji Kolawale Rasaq, Dr. Ola Balogun, Stella Ade Money, Dr. (Mrs.) D. A. Fasoyin, Dr. Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli (MFR), Laolu Akins, Evang. J. A. Adelakun, Prince Cyril Bamidele (Admiral Dele Abiodun), Pa Sulaimon Ayilara Aremu (Ajobiewe), and Premier Music.
The high point of the evening came when Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State presented awards to Ebenezer Obey and Mama Sioni, Evg Funmi Aragbaiye. Their separate performances brought the audience to its feet as they rendered their timeless hits, prompting a chorus of sing-alongs and dancing across the hall.
Obey, in his performance, eulogised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu for their roles in promoting cultural preservation and nation-building.
The festival featured live performances from the MFM Highlife Band, Mentholkay and New Melody Makers Band, MFM Guitar Choir, Medola, and OJ Band, offering a mix of classic tunes and Gen Z energy.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Oba Riliwanu Akiolu (Osolale I) of Lagos, Dr. Daniel Olukoya, founder of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) and Patron of Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation, among others.
Dr. Olukoya, represented by Dr. Ayo Oladele, announced a ₦500,000 cash gift to each awardee, in recognition of their lifetime contributions to Nigeria’s cultural development.
“In appreciation of your legacy and creativity, I am honouring each awardee with ₦500,000,” he said.
He also spoke on his music centres initiative, which aims to empower Nigerian youths through creative engagement and discourage involvement in social vices.
The festival, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with Evergreen Musical Company Limited, has become a defining cultural landmark in Lagos. It celebrates the city’s rich musical heritage while reconnecting younger generations with Nigeria’s musical legends.
According to Bimbo Esho, Managing Director of Evergreen Musical Company, Ariya Eko is “a tribute to the icons of yesteryears and a platform that strengthens cultural ties, fosters cross-generational dialogue, and opens new pathways for international cultural diplomacy.”
Cultural historian Kunle Odufuwa reflected on the role of indigenous musicians in nation-building, noting that Nigerian music played a unifying role before, during, and after the civil war
The 2025 edition of Ariya Eko, held as part of events marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and the “101 Days in Lagos” cultural season, featured more than 20 music veterans aged 70 and above. Through performances, awards, and tributes, the festival reaffirmed the enduring power of Nigerian music as both a cultural treasure and a force for unity. Aside from live performances, and award ceremony, the festival also featured symposium, and a session for young acts to perform classic songs from legendary musicians.
Credit: justnews.ng
