The 2026 Lagos Fanti Carnival brought Lagos Island to life on Monday, with foreign visitors and locals coming out to experience the vibrant culture, colourful floats, and traditional performances that turned historic communities into a tourism hub.

The carnival offered a rich blend of Afro-Brazilian heritage, community pride, and artistic performances, reinforcing Lagos’ growing reputation as a cultural tourism destination.

The carnival procession kicked off at about 2:40 p.m. with the Okepopo Fanti Carnival Association, representing the home community of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Okepopo Fanti Carnival Association led the parade with a drum-themed float and horses, setting the tone for a lively cultural display.

Other participating communities were Okoo-Faji Carnival Association, Epetedo United Youth Forum, Isale Eko Woro Carnival Association, Lafiaji Fanti Association, Olowogbowo Fancy Carnival Association, and Brazilian Campos Carreta Carnival Association.

The different groups dazzled the crowd with floats and performances reflecting their livelihoods and heritage.

Okoo-Faji showcased a float featuring a canoe, shrines, and cultural displays, with performers in red and blue costumes, while Epetedo wowed spectators with skaters waving flags and choreographed dance routines in blue and white attire.

Isale Eko highlighted the fishermen’s heritage; Lafiaji paraded red-and-white cultural displays, and Olowogbowo kept the crowd dancing throughout their performance.

Campos drew loud cheers with colourful costumes and animal-themed displays, including dragons, ostriches, and peacocks, as well as decorated umbrellas that added to the festive atmosphere.

Marion Kibler, a French tourist, described the experience as unforgettable.

Ms Kibler said the carnival exposed her to a cultural atmosphere she had never witnessed before.

“This experience is amazing because in France, we don’t have any carnival like this. There is a Brazilian culture, the African culture. We don’t have this, so it’s very cool to dance, to see. The colours are beautiful and I love it,” she said.

Speaking on her visit to the country and the people she had interacted with, she said Nigerians are very welcoming and joyful.

Another visitor, Julie Vanoni, also from France, said her visit to Nigeria was primarily to introduce her son to his Nigerian roots, but the carnival turned out to be a memorable cultural experience.

“It’s a very cultural experience. It’s very nice. We can see different people from different communities in Nigeria,” she said.

Ms Vanoni also said she ate jollof rice and it was fine.

A Lagos resident, Rosemary Simai, said the carnival was an eye-opening experience despite living in the state for years.

“For my first time seeing it, I think it’s so amazing. I’m seeing different colours, multiple colours of a lot of outfits. I wish to come next time to see more views,” she said.

Ms Simai added that the carnival showcased Yoruba traditions and community identity.

(NAN)