The Canoe Sculptures of Lagos: Discovering the From Ebute Monument

If there’s one thing that defines the soul of Lagos, it’s water. From fishing communities to bustling ferry routes, the city’s connection to water is deep and enduring. Standing tall on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way in Ikeja is a powerful symbol of this heritage - the From Ebute Monument . This striking public art piece is more than just a sculpture; it’s a story told through fiberglass and form, connecting Lagosians to their aquatic past. What Is the From Ebute Monument? The From Ebute Monument is a 30-foot-tall installation of multiple fiberglass sculptures of indigenous wooden canoes - the kind traditionally used by Lagos' earliest settlers. “Ebute” in Yoruba means “harbour” or “jetty,” which gives the monument its name and context. It stands as a tribute to the communities that thrived along Lagos’ waterfronts long before the skyline was dotted with high-rises and traffic-filled bridges. This monument isn’t just beautiful to look at - it tells a powerful story. It repr...