By Taiye Olayemi
Organisers of the 2025 Eko Fiesta say the three-day event will promote local businesses, empower youths and position Lagos State as a leading tourism and cultural destination.
Mr Damilare Osho, a partner at Dosh and Wales Company, organisers of the fiesta, said this at a news conference on Thursday in Lagos.
Osho said the free event, scheduled for Dec. 22 to Dec. 24, would create a vibrant platform where culture, commerce and entertainment converge.
“The Eko Fiesta is a vision to create an inclusive hub where celebration meets commerce, reflecting the spirit of Lagos while supporting local talent and enterprise,” he said.
According to him, the fiesta is designed to give small-scale entrepreneurs direct access to consumers from diverse backgrounds, thereby boosting trade and visibility.
He explained that the initiative was inspired by challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora and visitors during the festive season in finding a one-stop space for culture, shopping and networking.
“While Lagos in December is filled with concerts and parties, there has been a gap for something that blends celebration with purpose. Eko Fiesta is meant to bridge that gap,” he said.
He said that the event would also serve as an economic exhibition to attract foreign direct investment and establish Lagos as Africa’s hub for tourism, arts, culture and entertainment business.
Osho noted that the fiesta would showcase young creatives, facilitate mentorship and networking, as well as provide a civic platform for engagement among youths, the diaspora and development institutions.
Also speaking, Mr Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment through cultural initiatives.
“Events like Eko Fiesta open huge opportunities for our youths in entertainment, creative arts and culture-focused enterprises,” Aregbe said.
He assured that the state government would continue to support and participate in the fiesta in subsequent years.
Mrs Ayodele Olojede, Divisional Head, Retail and SMEs at Wema Bank Plc, said the bank’s sponsorship reflected its strong belief in youth and SME empowerment.
“We will be on ground throughout the three-day event to attend to customers and support new ones, especially in addressing complex financial needs,” she said.
A young fashion entrepreneur, Miss Tosky Opeifa, said she was excited to be part of the fiesta, promising to blend European styles with local fabrics to showcase Nigerian craftsmanship. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
