Yomi Durojaye
The Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson Awoyinka, said Lagos Fanti Carnival the is a living narrative, an expression of identity, resilience, and community. Through its colourful costumes, rhythmic music, captivating dances, and theatrical displays,
Hon. Commissiner stated this in Lagos during a press conference to announce the 2026 Lagos Fanti Carnival scheduled to hold on Monday 6th April, 2026 at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
Speaking at the Conference the Commissioners Mrs. Toke-Benson said, "Lagos stands as a vibrant melting pot of cultures, histories, and traditions. The Fanti Carnival is a compelling reflection of this diversity, celebrating the rich heritage of the Afro-Brazilian returnees and the enduring cultural ties between Lagos and the wider Atlantic world.
"Fanti Carnival is more than just a festival, it is a living narrative, an expression of identity, resilience, and community. Through its colourful costumes, rhythmic music, captivating dances, and theatrical displays, it brings history to life while connecting generations through shared cultural experiences.
"I am delighted to announce that the 2026 edition of the Lagos Fanti Carnival will take place on Monday, 6th April 2026, at the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square. This historic venue will once again be transformed into a grand stage of cultural splendour, welcoming residents, tourists, and culture enthusiasts from across Nigeria and around the world.
"As a Ministry, we remain resolute in our commitment to harnessing cultural tourism as a strategic driver of economic growth, social cohesion, and global visibility for Lagos State. Events such as the Fanti Carnival play a vital role in stimulating local enterprise, empowering creatives, and reinforcing Lagos’ position as Africa’s leading destination for arts and culture.
"We are also deliberate about reimagining our cultural heritage in ways that resonate with younger generations while preserving its authenticity. The Fanti Carnival continues to evolve , seamlessly blending tradition with innovation, ensuring its relevance, vibrancy, and global competitiveness.
I would like to sincerely appreciate our partners, sponsors, and stakeholders whose unwavering support continues to sustain and expand the cultural ecosystem of our State. Your contributions remain invaluable to the success of this initiative.
"To our esteemed members of the press, we count on your continued partnership in amplifying this story to the world. Together, let us project the richness, creativity, and cultural excellence that define Lagos.
"As we look forward to April 6th, I warmly invite everyone to be part of this extraordinary celebration. Come and experience the colour, the rhythm, and the spirit of Lagos.
"The Lagos Fanti Carnival promises to be a spectacular showcase of heritage, unity, and the enduring vibrancy of our people.
Earlier, In her remark, the General Manager National Theatre, Mrs Tola Akerele applauded the initiative by the state and relevant partners, stating that government support would go a long way to further support the preservation of culture and traditions.
“It can only continue with government support, because this is about heritage, culture, about who we are, where we have come from, where we’re going for the youth. So this carnival is essential for those that came back from Brazil over 100 years ago and it’s something that brings back the memory of where they came from. Lagos State is the heartbeat of culture and creativity, so I am not surprised that this event and this carnival has been supported by them,” she said.
Talking about the economic impact, a member of the advisory board of the Carnival, Mrs Aduke Gomez said that aside from the proper carnival, there would also be a summit organised to dissect the benefits of the Fanti Carnival to Lagos and the national economy, slated for 2nd April at the Glover Hall, Lagos Island.
She said “Carnivals are great, but we forget sometimes that they are an economic tool. They are a way for communities to generate money, and to ensure that that money continues so that the cycle continues. And so this summit will play a very important part in situating in our minds the business case for carnivals.
“And there are going to be three panels, the first is Economic Synergy and Trade Collaboration, the second panel is on creative economy and cultural exchange, while the third panel is on heritage preservation and cultural diplomacy.”
On the part of security and essential services, The Project Director of Fanti Carnival, Mrs Bolaji Animashaun acknowledged the support of the critical stakeholders in the state, including the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, the Fire and Rescue Service, Safety Commission among others, while assuring over 40,000 funseekers of maximum security at the event.
