NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Culture & Tourism

National Creativity Week: Ministry pledges support for young creatives

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By Joshua Olomu

 

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE) has expressed its commitment to supporting young creatives as they strive for self-reliance.

The ministry made the commitment at the empowerment programme for schoolgirls in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of activities to mark the 2024 National Creativity Week (NCW).

No fewer than 80 students participated in the empowerment programme held on Saturday at Stella Maris Schools, Life Camp, with special training on natural hair care, wig making and the production of natural hair oil.

The event with the theme, “Transforming World, Promoting Sustainable Development”, is organised by the ministry in collaboration with Photizo Life Foundation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Creativity Week is aimed at celebrating the power of creativity to provide empowerment, particularly for youths and children.

The initiative is an offshoot of the Creative Africa Initiative programme of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Ghana 2008, and is celebrated globally as the World Creativity and Innovation Day.

In his opening speech, Mr Raphael Oraeluno, Permanent Secretary, FMACTCE, said Nigeria’s productive future was only possible if the unique talents and creative ingenuity of youths were properly utilised.

“It gives me great joy that this particular occasion is directed towards discovering, nurturing and showcasing the innate creative potentials as well as talent in these beautiful young children of Stella Maris Schools, Abuja.

“The theme of today’s event, “Transforming World, Promoting Sustainable Development”, is a testament to the ability of creativity to bring economic transformation.

“It will also empower everyone to imagine new ideas, make new decisions and take new steps towards making the world a better place through creativity and innovation.

“It is pertinent to note that the Creative Economy is a vital tool in reducing poverty, unemployment, violence and restiveness among the youth while promoting wealth creation, foreign earnings and enhancing the Nation’s GDP.

“Against this backdrop, I wish to commend and thank the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy for providing the necessary machinery to ensure the success of today’s event

“I wish to encourage you to seize the opportunity that this programme presents to nurture your innate God-given talents and creative abilities,” he said.

Oraeluno, was represented by Mrs Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy in the ministry.

In her presentation, Mrs Adanna Enwezor, Founder of Photizo Life Foundation, said the training was to provide basic skills on natural hair, as well as the economic opportunities in the industry to the youngsters.

“Today, we are here to celebrate an important part of our identity and heritage, and this is more than a celebration but way to honour our roots, our culture, and the creativity within us.

“Our mission is to promote African natural hair, raise awareness about the toxic chemicals in hair and beauty products such as relaxers and texturizers, and advocate for the production of local organic alternatives.

“Our partnership with the ministry highlights how important this is, not just for our culture, but also for encouraging creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and pride in our natural beauty.

“We are here to promote the beauty and uniqueness of our natural hair, sensitize you on the dangers of hair relaxers and texturizers.

“We also intend to expose you all to the opportunities that lie not just in the way we care for our hair, but in how we build our careers and businesses around it,” she said

Mrs Ekemini Ladejobi, natural hair enthusiast and a Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Creative Arts, Culture and Tourism of NAN, commended the organisers of the event for the initiative.

She, therefore, urged the students to take the training seriously as the knowledge gained would help them and their loved ones as they journey through womanhood.

“I urge you not to joke with this training, but ensure you make something out of it that will help you personally, beside the business opportunities it will offer you,” she said.

Some of the participants who spoke with NAN on the sideline, expressed appreciation to the organisers, as they pledged to maximise the opportunities it offers.

Popoola Arinlade, Assistant Head Girl of Stella Maris College, Life Camp, said : “I think me learning about what my hair needs is going to go a long way in growing my natural hair with confidence.

“The knowledge of daily hair routine is going to go a long way, not just for me, but for other girls around me.”

Also, Christabel, Akperobe, a JSS 1 student, said:“This training has helped me on how to manage my hair, especially to know that chemical treatments will damage my hair and skin.” (NAN)(nannews.ng)

 

Edited Ekemini Ladejobi

Culture & Tourism

Otu promises to take Calabar Carnival global in 2025

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By Taiye Olayemi

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has pledged to take the Calabar Carnival global in 2025, to build on the event’s already impressive reputation as Africa’s biggest street party.

Otu made the promise while declaring open the carnival’s street party on Saturday in Calabar.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the street party involves seven competitive bands and seven non competitive bands engaged in different forms of performances from the Millennium Park through to the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

The 2024 Calabar Carnival, which began in November, and ends on Dec. 31, has its theme as “Our Shared Heritage”.

The governor said:“Today is a great day in the calendar history of Calabar. We are indeed very humbled that we are celebrating about two decades of this particular event, and I know that we’ve been building and adding value daily.

“The buyers have increased, and we know even next year, because the diaspora is pressing very hard, we might be able to add the diaspora band that will come on full strength.

“But as Cross Riverians, we want to thank all those who have come, and we say come and live and share with us. I declare this open in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit.”

Otu appreciated dignitaries as well as tourists present at the event, as he urged them to take out time to explore the tourism assets in Calabar.

He commended the efforts of previous governors of the state for sustaining the carnival over the years.

“For those that are coming for the first time, please don’t go very quick, try and stay back and enjoy the full hospitality of our people.

“Let me salute our forefathers, His Excellency Gov. Duke, His Excellency Gov. Imoke and Prof. Ben Ayade, for building on what was started by Gov. Duke until it got here,” he said.

Dr Gabe Onah, Chairman, Calabar Carnival Commission, appreciated the various sponsors for the carnival.

He, however, called on them to take ownership of the tourism and hospitality sectors for sustainability.

“We are experiencing a rebirth. We are here to speak to the ignition of community spirit, to speak to the community of Africa, and what we are ready to offer the world.

“The dance party on the streets tells the story. The Carnival is allegorical, it is didactic, it is educational, it is theatre for development.”

Also, Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi, commended Otu for uniting the people of Cross River through the carnival.

“This is a historic event. Here, I can see love, understanding, compassion, and liberty.

“Your excellency, Gov. Otu, your leadership style has paid off, and I must commend you for unlocking the potential in the youth. You are actually taking the lead,” he said.

Similarly, Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, said, “I am glad to be back here. I am witnessing sustainability and progress here.

”This puts Nigeria on the global map, and it improves the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state.

“This is a beautiful day, so let us celebrate.” (NAN)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Benson Iziama

Culture & Tourism

Lagos showcases aquatic endowment at boat regatta

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By Taiye Olayemi/Aderonke Ojediran

The Lagos State Government, on Saturday, hosted its 2024 Boat Regatta in a spectacular celebration of the state’s rich and unique tourism and maritime heritage.

The event, which began at the Five Cowries Creek through to the Wings on Victoria Island and six other locations, witnessed a grand procession led by a special fleet by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

 

With the theme: “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life”, the boat regatta was a treasure trove of colours, sounds, spirituality and excitement, with revellers across the five divisions of the state in attendance.

The event highlighted the economic, cultural and spiritual significance of the coastal areas Lagos is known for.

The event organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture had no fewer than 200 boats from indigenous communities of Lagos take revellers through a journey of cultural brilliance.

The Badagry community’s Zangbeto masqueraders and the Epe community’s Gelede masqueraders excited revellers as they performed some spiritual procession on waterways.

The revellers adorned their boats with vibrant colours and intricate designs, featuring symbols that represented their beliefs, spirituality and cultural identity.

Sanwo-Olu, who declared the event open, described it as the biggest aquatic festival in Africa.

Sanwo-Olu said that the boat regatta represented the Lagos envisioned by the government as a city of innovation, culture and boundless possibilities.

He said it was a testament to his administration’s commitment to tourism and the creative economy as pivotal contributors to the social and economic growth of Lagos under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda.

“This extraordinary event is not only a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Lagos but also a vibrant showcase of our city’s unique connection to water, an essential element of our identity and livelihood.

“Through this festival, we illuminate the aquatic splendour that makes Lagos a premier destination for tourists and stakeholders from across the globe.

“This regatta is a reflection of our resolve to embrace and promote our traditions while creatively harnessing the boundless opportunities within our maritime resources.

“This vibrant display is complemented by private boat owners’ creative ingenuity, adding a modern twist to our celebration,” he said.

Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, expressed excitement at the ability of the state to host the festival after lots of trial.

Benson-Awoyinka commended Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the development of the state’s waterways and tourism infrastructure.

She said that Sanwo-Olu’s efforts in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation were also commendable.

“I am particularly thrilled that after several attempts to hold this spectacular event for some years, the event is finally holding today, making all efforts and resources committed into organising this boat regatta worthwhile.

“This year’s theme, “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life”, underscores the integral role our waterways play in shaping our history and identity as Lagosians,” she said.

The commissioner said that the regatta was not only showcase of the state’s vibrant traditions but also a testament to shared commitment to fostering tourism, cultural pride and unity.

“Through the dazzling display of decorated boats, exhilarating traditional races and captivating water sports, we celebrate the boundless creativity and dynamism of our people.

“Beyond its cultural significance, this event serves as a driver of economic growth by boosting tourism and creating opportunities for local businesses,” she said.

The Oloja of Lagos, Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, commended Lagos State Government for reviving boat regatta, which he described as one of the age-long tourism practices in Lagos.

Olojo-Kosoko said that boat regatta, known traditionally in Lagos as Oko-Aje or Okosi festival, was first held in 1967, during the era of late Mobolaji Johnson.

He said that during the boat regatta, some of late King Kosoko’s war relics such as his cannon guns were displayed.

“This is a beautiful display of our treasured cultural heritage. I know many people must have been entertained, but this is one of the attractions Lagos has to offer tourists.

“I believe next year’s edition will be more memorable,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Culture & Tourism

Kano Durbar: UNESCO presents inscription certificate to Nigeria

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By Joshua Olomu

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has presented the certificate on the inscription of Kano Durbar on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity to Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Amb. Hajo Sani, Permanent Representative of Nigeria to UNESCO, presented the certificate to Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture,Tourism and Creative Economy, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Sani said the dossier on Kano Durbar was officially considered and approved at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, comprising of 24 states, including Nigeria.

According to the Permanent Representative, the dossier on Kano Dubar met all five criteria that must be satisfied for an element to be inscribed on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

“After its submission in 2023, following rigorous technical works, the dossier on the Kano Durbar satisfied all the criteria based on the evaluation of the Advisory Body of Experts.

“In the decision papers wherein the inscription was approved on December 5, 2024 in Paraguay, the Intergovernmental Committee specifically congratulated Nigeria for the outstanding nomination file.

“I would like to emphasise that the inscription of the Kano Durbar on the Representative List brings a lot of benefits for Nigeria and the local communities.

“This calls for greater responsibilities of government and all stakeholders to maintain the Durbar Festival and keep it sustainable within the scope of its new international status.

“It is on record that this inscription has brought the total number of Nigeria’s items on the intangible list to eight, and on this note it is important for Nigeria to justify its multicultural status,” she said.

While congratulating Nigeria for the feat, Sani said there was need for all stakeholders to work assiduously for the nation to secure more inscriptions from UNESCO.

She said if properly harnessed, Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage should earn it more items from UNESCO.

“I hereby make a formal presentation of the original Certificate of Inscription, having been the conclusion of the technical duties and responsibilities by the Nigerian Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, which brought us to this milestone.

“Once again, I congratulate you for this achievement that happened during your tenure as the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture,Tourism and Creative Economy,” she said.

In her remarks, the culture minister expressed excitement for the achievement, adding that the feat was a product of hard work and commitment from stakeholders.

“This indeed is a great day for me, and it is a privilege and honour for me for it to be happening at this time.

“I want to first appreciate President Bola Tinubu for this, who was absolutely elated that we were able to get this inscription for the Kano Durbar.

“This is part of what makes us exciting to the world stage, what makes our global expressions quite unique, because we represent every part of the world.

“In Nigeria, you will find Europe, you will find Asia, you will find the Middle East, you will find everything that really defines who a global citizen is.

“Kano Durbar, is a part of the tradition, the culture, the value of specifically Northern Nigeria, and it is of huge value, not only to that region, but to Nigeria as a whole.

“As a Nigerian, if you travel abroad, and they talk Kano Durbar, no matter where you come from, you can take ownership of it, because it is part of your inherited culture,” Musawa said.

NAN reports that Kano Durbar is a yearly festival in Kano, Nigeria, that celebrates the region’s culture and heritage through a grand horse parade.

It is acclaimed to be the largest procession of colourful horses in the world, which has evolved with the history, culture and tradition of the people of Kano over a period of time. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Culture & Tourism

Fayemi enjoins youths to embrace reading culture

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By Joshua Olomu

To preserve the future of Nigerian rich literature, author and wife of former Ekiti governor, Bisi Fayemi, has urged youths to embrace reading culture to produce young creative writers.

She made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the 2024 End-of -Year Dinner and Awards of the Abuja chapter of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), on Sunday in Abuja.

The event tagged “ANAtainment”, featured the launch of the book, “Flights of Imagination, ANA Abuja anthology of poems and short stories.

The event brought together seasoned and young authors, as well as literary enthusiasts.

According to Fayemi, Nigeria has over the years paraded arrays of prolific writers, and to ensure that more writers are produced, young people must embrace reading culture.

She said the digital age had made access to publications accessible without geographical barriers, which have offered this generation of youths the opportunity to read widely.

Fayemi said: “Young people may not have access to the kinds of publications, novels, and books that we had when we were growing up, because it is very difficult to get hands-on copies of books now.

“But there are still opportunities for young people to read out there; there are a lot of information and free publications online.

“If young people can spend hours online, doing one challenge or the other, doing one thing or the other on social media, they can as well spend that time accessing free publications online.

“What we need to do is continue to encourage young people to use the opportunities and the tools that they have, we did not have those things when we were growing up.

“They have them now, so, the world is waiting for them to explore, they should not waste those opportunities.

“To be able to be a good writer, you have to be able to read widely, and I have said on different platforms that I started writing very early because my father motivated me.

“Our parents back then were always looking for ways to keep us engaged, because we didn’t have the kinds of gadgets and things that young people have today, like laptops and phones, and so on.

“So, every Tuesday and every Thursday, I had to write an essay for my father, and I believe that is where I developed a very keen passion for writing.”

Earlier, Chukwudi Eze, Chairman, ANA, Abuja, said the association was committed to engaging young scholars through mentorship programmes that encourage them to embrace reading and writing.

He said the “ANAtainment” event was an opportunity to honour those who had contributed to the success of the association’s programmes during the year.

“This event embodied a pivotal juncture in our literary voyage, and as a chapter, we are thrilled to witness the convergence of creative minds and kindred spirits.

“Our resolve lies in nurturing literary aptitude as our monthly readings have evolved into a platform for budding writers to showcase their prose.

“In our mission to instill a passion for literature among the youth, we have birthed the ANA Abuja Young Readers Club in partnership with the Dabmak Great Foundation International School.

“By engaging with young scholars and immersing them in the joys of reading and writing, we seek to build a sturdy ground work for the future of Nigerian literature.

“To ensure inclusivity and amplify a plethora of voices, the Abuja chapter has broadened its membership scope in alignment with the ANA constitution.

“We now extend a warm invitation even to secondary school students to become custodians of our prestigious association,” he said.

Also, Prof. Emeka Aniagolu, the keynote speaker, commended ANA Abuja for providing a platform that brings together writers to share ideas.

“On several occasions, I have had the distinct privilege of participating in the deliberations, poetry recitations and other activities hosted by ANA Abuja, that breathe new and invigorating life into that literary organisation.

“ANA Abuja, through the enlightened chairmanship of Architech Chukwudi Eze and his able EXCO, has come alive like never before, bringing innovation and dynamism,” he said.

NAN reports that highpoints of the event was the unveiling of the ANA Abuja Anthology of Poems and Short Stories, “Flights of Imagination.”

Certificates of Merit were also presented to members and other stakeholders who have contributed to the growth and development of the writing craft. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Fulanis celebrates 1st Maliya International day of “Fura-da-nono”

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By Sunday John

Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, a Fulani social cultural association, on Saturday, celebrated the Maliya International Day of “Fura-da-nono” in Tudun Wada, Karu Local Government of Nasarawa State.

 

“Fura-da-nono,” is traditional Fulani delicacy made of millet, milk and spies and commonly consumed in Northern Nigeria.

Alh. Abdullahi Bello-Bodejo, National President of the group, said the event was aimed at showcasing their rich culture and tradition as well as music and cuisines.

 

The National President, represented by Ibrahim Adamu, Northeast Zonal Vice Chairman of the association, said it would encourage their youth to take pride in their heritage of preparing fura da nono.

 

The group also inaugurated the Maliya International Cattle Market for the sale of livestock, and a Mosque in the area.

 

Bello-Bodejo appreciated the President Bola Tinubu- led administration for the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development to promote livestock farming.

He said that the creation of the ministry was a clear indication of the government’s recognition of the pivotal role livestock farming play in the nation’s economy, culture, and social fabric.

 

He noted that the development marked a new era for millions of livestock farmers and pastoralists who had yearned for such a dedicated and focused body to address their unique challenges and opportunities.

 

Bello-Bodejo maintained that the ministry would go a long way toward addressing the incessant conflicts between pastoralists and farmers.

 

Also speaking, Dr Awwal Aliyu, National President of the Northern Consensus Movement (NCM), commended the hosting of the cultural festival and the establishment of the International Cattle Market as well as the Mosque.

 

Aliyu said that the market was a  fulfillment of the vision of Sir Ahmadu Bello, late Sultan of Sokoto, for an International Cattle Market.

 

He said that as a group, they were proud of the actualisation of the dream of the late Sultan of Sokoto and would work toward making the market viable.

 

Also, Abdullahi Adamu, immediate past National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), represented by Arc. Shehu Tukur, commended the Fulani people for showcasing their culture with a view to preserving it.

 

He also lauded the initiative to create an international cattle market, saying that it would go a long way to contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country.

The festival had in attendance Fulanis from the 19 Northern states as well as other states of the country.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/ Isaac Ukpoju

Culture & Tourism , Defence/Security

Band Corps festival of security agencies holds in FCT

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By Joshua Olomu

The maiden edition of the national festival of the Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary International Band Festival (AFOPPIBAF), is scheduled to hold in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2025.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival is aimed at promoting unity among bands of security agencies.

Mr Justin Duru, Director-General of AFOPPIBAF, stated this during a news conference to unveil plans for the festival on Thursday in Abuja.

According to him, the event with the theme, “Togetherness: Unity in Diversity, Our Strength”, is to promote synergy, harmony, and cordial working relationships among the band corps.

He said the event is a unique initiative aimed at uniting Nigeria’s military, Police and paramilitary bands, while promoting cultural diversity, creativity and regimental music.

“Military,Police , Paramilitary and Marching Bands play vital roles in providing regimental and ceremonial music for social, national and international events, and essentially in promoting national unity and peace.

“The festival is aimed at celebrating the best of regimental tattoos and music by the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary bands in a competitive, creative and performing arts showcase.

“It will awaken the latent talents of the activities and services of these integral departments in the promotion of the values, and virtues of the Nigerian AFOPPIBAF.

“It is packaged to improve on and promote experience sharing, synergy, creativity, service delivery and new trends in military, Police and paramilitary regimental tattoos and music performance, aimed at enhancing bonds.

“It will also showcase their creative talents while promoting careers in the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and Paramilitary band corps for talented and desirous Nigerian youths in music, creative and performing arts.

“This is the first ever festival bringing all the Nigerian security agencies together to celebrate and promote their bands corps in a ceremonial regimental tattoo culture under one platform.

“The theme of the festival is anchored on the song of legendary Nigerian musician, late Sonny Okosun (Ozzidi) “Togetherness”, and is paraphrased, ‘Togetherness: Unity in Diversity,Our Strength”, he said.

Duru said the historic event also tagged National Drumline Festival, will feature regimental music colloquium, serenade and street Parade.

Others are marc-past, creative and cultural displays, drum-battles, tributes and prizes, among other highlights.

He said special guests to grace the event will include past and living military, police and paramilitary leaders as well as heads of Customs, Fire Service, Civil Defence, FRSC and the Correctional Service.

According to Duru, the festival is officially coordinated and produced by African Caribbean Network Foundation (ACNF) in partnership with AfroNem Linx and Klaymann and Gremann.

Others include the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police and the Paramilitary bands.(NAN) (www.nannews,ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Culture & Tourism

Ojo-Lanre calls for robust national tourism policy to grow sector

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By Joshua Olomu

Mr Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, has called for the formulation of a robust national tourism policy to adequately drive the sector for increased contribution to national economy.

He made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline at the just concluded annual National Tourism Transportation Summit in Abuja.

The 2024 summit, with the theme “Tourism Transportation Connectivity: Accelerating the Synergy for National Economic Development”, brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

According to Ojo-Lanre, as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economic mainstay from oil, its rich tourism potential is a veritable alternative, if properly harnessed.

He said the absence of workable legal framework in form of national tourism policy was a major drawback to the sector, and therefore urged the federal government to expedite action toward providing such a framework.

The DG said such a crucial document would serve as roadmap for stakeholders at all levels toward harnessing the vast potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry and align it with global standards and best practices.

“Nigeria must develop a solid tourism policy, and without a tourism policy, whatever we do will just be meeting in the dark.

“The first thing you have to do is have a tourism policy, and then you develop a workable, sustainable tourism development plan.

“This will bring all states on board, so, these are steps we must take to show that we are serious to develop our tourism.

“I know about Ekiti state, because our Governor is very passionate about tourism,” he said.

He added that a robust policy document would ensure sustainable tourism, community engagement, diversification of tourism products, create jobs and promote Nigeria’s rich culture.

Ojo-Lanre, who bagged the ‘Long Service in Nigeria Tourism Development and Promotion Award’ at the summit, faulted the recent decision of the federal government to subsume the ministry of tourism into that of arts and culture.

He said there was need for the federal government to rethink the scrapping of the ministry of tourism if the sector would witness speedy growth.

“We agitated for the creation of a stand-alone ministry for tourism, and I even approached the eight Senate.

“But while we were happy with its creation by the federal government, it was later scrapped,” he said.(NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Ipada Carnival begins amidst pomp, pageantry in Lagos

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By Taiye Olayemi

Diplomats across Africa and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry on Saturday converged on the La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Lagos State to declare the maiden edition of ‘Ipada Carnival’ open.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ipada Carnival is a cultural celebration honouring the return of people of African descent and lovers of the culture to their roots.

The carnival is holding from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8.

The nine-day carnival began in an electrifying atmosphere where the Brazilian Descendants donned in their colourful carnival attire performed to the excitement of revellers.

The carnival showcased the rich cultural heritage of Africans featuring diverse range of activities, including traditional music and dance performances, elaborate costumes, and mouth-watering local cuisines.

Revellers were treated to a dazzling display of colour and energy. The air was filled with the sound of drums and laughter, as participants and spectators alike immersed themselves in the joy and excitement of the occasion.

Speaking, Mr Wanle Akinboboye, Convener of Ipada Carnival and Chief Executive Officer of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, said the carnival was a form of enticement for Africans in the diaspora to retrace their roots.

Akinboboye said the essence of this was to enable them contribute significantly to the economic development of Africa.

“Today is all about the Ipada Carnival, the concept is all about bringing back people of African descent back to their roots.

“We have 32 million diasporans in the Caribbean, 66 million in the United States of America, 120 million in Brazil, about 9.6 million in Europe. We need to entice them back to come and add value to the entire continent of Africa.

“You know no country can develop without the diasporans. So, Ipada is basically presenting the entire continent of Africa in a basket. We are creating an African shopping mall. The idea is to enable the diasporans to visit all the countries in the continent.

“There are 55 African countries. So, we’re not only selling Nigeria, we’re just saying that the diasporans can come into the continent of Africa through Lagos, through AAbuja.x

“And we created for those that felt that they have left on slave ships, we’ve created for them what we call ‘slave ships to cruise ships” so that they can land here in Lekki.

“From Lekki they can go to our airport here in Lagos and then fly to any part of Africa they want to fly to. So, basically we’re putting the entire continent of Africa in one basket,” he said.

He said that a huge number of Africans in the diaspora had been able to retrace their steps already.

“This is just a celebration. This is the Ipada Carnival but we have the Ipada Initiative that happens on a daily basis.

“Over 40 African-American Mayors have been brought back, a platform has also been established to assist them to come to Africa, about 300 are coming next week, we have about 500 coming back in February and more,” he said.

Earlier, The Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, lauded the Ipada Carnival and initiative.

He said that the country looked forward to engaging the service of a DNA expert to help in identifying Rwandans in the diaspora.

“We find it important that Rwanda is present among other African countries here, and Rwanda as a pan-African country is opening its doors to all Africans to come back home.

“As you can see, we are displaying our coffee, tea, pepper, clothings and more. We want everyone to know that Rwanda is safe for business with hospitable individuals.

“We are second when it comes to ease of doing business.

Marinho Olayemi, President of the Brazilian Descendants Association in Lagos, relayed how the Brazilian descendants had contributed to the growth of Lagos state.

Olayemi urged all Africans in the diaspora to retrace their roots.

Also, Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), expressed excitement at the outcome of the carnival.

Mustapha said that for subsequent editions, the association would look into creating more products to attract more people in the diaspora.

“We are very happy to partner with La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort for this beautiful initiative.

“We are changing the narrative to being slave ships to cruise ship,” she said.

Mrs Uloma Egbuna, Managing Director of Tour Brokers International, described Ipada festival as a lofty initiative.

Mr Gbenga Sunday, a destination promoter, noted that the carnival would attract lots of fortune for Africa. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chidinma Agu/Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Arts: Nwosa showcases ‘Curtains of Memories’, seeks public awareness, appreciation

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By Folasade Adeniran

Renowned Nigerian-Irish artist, Ben Nwosa, has called for more awareness in the field of arts and its appreciation among Nigerians.

Nwosa spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday on the sidelines of his ongoing arts exhibition at the Didi Museum, in Lagos.

The arts exhibition is titled: ‘Curtains of Memories’.

The artist noted that the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria had put art collections only within the reach of the very rich.

He categorised the Nigerian audience reception to art and exhibition to include those who attend art exhibitions because they want to meet the artist or artists.

Also, are those who want to purchase art pieces of the during or after the exhibition in order to re-sell.

According to Nwosa, these may be private individuals, galleries or interior decorators.

“Some very rich individuals buy art pieces because their friends bought and do not want to be an exception or probably because they want to encourage the artist.

“The third category, I envisage, are the connoisseurs who buy art for esthetic reasons,” he added.

Nwosa noted that these prevailing characteristics were not the same in the western world, where artists were revered and artworks more valued.

He said that the exhibition was aimed at encouraging people to appreciate, love and promote art as well as policy makers to see abstract art, black and white, differently.

“This exhibition is not driven primarily by financial motivation but rather in opening the eyes of Nigerian creative sectors.

“My intention is to make my audience and connoisseurs of art enjoy the pieces without restraints.

“The more you look at the pieces, the more visual perception you have and consequently able to interpret the works yourself.

“I wanted to showcase to Nigerians how much I have been influenced by my sojourn abroad.

“Most of the art pieces are abstract and semi abstract works. I used lines, shapes, forms, colour, gestures marks to communicate an idea.

“Also, most of the art pieces are untitled deliberately,” he said.

Also speaking, Elizabeth Jibunoh, Co-Founder of Didi Museum, commended Nwosa.

She said that Nwosa’s work was a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and the remarkable things that could emerge when discipline and freedom were embraced.

“I invite you to experience this collection with an open mind and an appreciation for the profound interplay of light and shadow, form and space Nwosa has masterfully crafted.

“It is an honour to once again present his work here at Didi Museum, a fitting venue for an artist whose journey is both a celebration of the past and a bold step into the future,” Jibunoh said. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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