MarketingWhen you think of a fusion of ancient Lagos culture, contemporary artistry, and meaningful gifting, very few options come to mind. Yet one object captures all three with remarkable clarity: the Meta4 Eyo figurine. Over the years, Meta4 has transformed this cultural icon into a globally recognised keepsake, bridging history and modern expression in a way that few gifts can.
Today, the Eyo is not just a decorative piece. It is a symbol of identity, a bearer of heritage, and one of Meta4’s most cherished creations — one that recipients keep, display, and treasure for years.
Where the Story Begins: The Eyo as Inspiration
The Eyo Festival is one of Lagos’ most enduring cultural traditions. Held to honour the passing of a king or the installation of a new one, it is a spiritual ceremony rooted in centuries of Yoruba history. The iconic, white-robed Eyo masquerades in their flowing garments, veiled faces, and wide-brimmed akete hats, dance through the streets to sacred drumbeats, serving as revered symbols of rich ancestry.
Though its earliest origins trace back to the mid-19th century, the Eyo remains a celebrated emblem of Lagos’ spirit today. It is this cultural depth and emotional resonance that inspired Meta4 to create a physical form that people could own, gift, and connect with outside the festival grounds.
Meta4’s Eyo: The Birth of a Modern Icon
Meta4’s Eyo figurine began with a simple but powerful idea: to preserve Lagos’ heritage in a form that could be shared globally.
To bring this vision to life, the Meta4 design team immersed itself in a study of the symbolism and history of the Eyo tradition. Every element, from the robes, the opambata staff, to the poise, and even the colours of the five Eyo families, was carefully studied and crafted with precision.
The result is a refined figurine that honours tradition and at the same time embraces modern craftsmanship. Every piece is made with premium materials, intricate detailing, and a finish that reflects elegance and quality.
A Gift Recognised and Celebrated
The impact of the Eyo figurine can be felt in the way people respond to it.
“I like these ones. I am a Lagos girl!” Aunty Joke Silva said at the Africa Creative Market 2025 as she admired Meta4’s signature Eyo pieces. Her excitement mirrors the reactions many recipients express when encountering the figurine for the first time.
Watch the highlights from our exhibition at Africa Creative Market
Over the years, the Eyo has been presented to prominent Nigerians, including the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as international dignitaries such as Prince Harry & Meghan Markle and former German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz.
Why the Eyo Resonates Anywhere, At Home and Abroad
Across the world, iconic objects serve as cultural anchors:
- the Statue of Liberty in the United States
- Big Ben in London
- the Calavera in Mexico
For Lagosians, the Eyo holds the same weight.
Yet for many years, Nigerians in the diaspora lacked a meaningful souvenir that truly captured the essence of home. Meta4 recognised this gap and introduced the Eyo figurines in mini, regular, and large sizes, including curated sets for collectors and corporate gifting.
Today, Nigerians returning abroad often carry an Eyo figurine with them, placing it in homes, workspaces, and collections across the globe. It becomes a conversation starter and a reminder of the rich culture Nigerians are known for. It even serves as a bridge back to Lagos.
Craftsmanship That Preserves Culture
The Meta4 Eyo is an art and a piece of innovation. Skilled designers sculpt and refine each piece with care, ensuring the figurine represents our culture accurately. It is authentic and elegant.
Each colour in the Meta4 Eyo collection represents one of the five traditional Eyo families: Adimu, Laba, Oniko, Ologede, and Agere. Some clients prefer full sets, while others select colours that reflect personal values or organisational culture.
Beyond cultural preservation, the Eyo figurine has proven to be versatile. It serves numerous purposes:
- Corporate gifts
- Diplomatic souvenirs
- Awards & recognition pieces
- Homecoming tokens
- Interior design accents
Read More: 5 Perfect Gifts for Your Loved Ones This Christmas
Why It Remains Our Most Kept Gift
Unlike generic gifts that are re-gifted, shelved, or discarded, the Eyo is displayed proudly. It often becomes a reminder of home, a cherished personal item or a symbol passed from generation to generation.
As Meta4 continues to innovate in craftsmanship and design, the Eyo remains at the centre of its mission: to transform cultural heritage into modern, meaningful keepsakes.
New finishes, packaging options, and design updates ensure the figurine remains both timeless and contemporary; but its essence, the Lagos spirit, remains unchanged.
For Lagosians, corporate organisations, gift-givers, or anyone who values artistry with cultural depth, the Eyo offers something rare: a piece of Lagos you can hold.
Ready to own your piece of Lagos or gift someone? Order yours now or visit our catalogue to explore the Meta4 Eyo Collection and own a piece of Lagos as the best gift ever.
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