Lagos Comes Alive as 2026 Fanti Carnival Showcases Afro-Brazilian Heritage in Grand Style
It was a massive turnout of people from all walks of life as the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture hosted the 2026 Fanti Carnival at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was joined by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Hamzat; former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; former Senator Gbenga Ashafa; Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka; other cabinet members; members of the Lagos State House of Assembly; as well as council chairmen to witness the colourful procession by various participating groups.
The Fanti Carnival is a testament to Lagos’ rich Afro-Brazilian heritage, symbolising unity, resilience, and artistic expression while showcasing the city’s unique cultural identity.
The carnival is one of the oldest cultural traditions on Lagos Island, rooted in the legacy of Afro-Brazilian returnees—formerly enslaved Africans who made their way back from Brazil in the late 1800s.
These returnees, known as the Aguda, settled in neighbourhoods such as Brazilian Campos, Lafiaji, and Olowogbowo, bringing with them a vibrant blend of Catholic festivities, samba rhythms, European fashion, and masquerade traditions.
