BY ANTHONY OCHELA, ABUJA
The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), Nigeria’s premier cultural event, has concluded in grand style, with Bayelsa State emerging the overall winner.
The week-long festival, hosted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), brought together participants and dignitaries from across the nation to celebrate Nigeria’s rich and diverse cultural heritage under the theme “Connected Culture.”
NAFEST 2024 featured an array of Competitive and Non-Competitive Events, offering a vibrant platform for cultural expression, exchange, and unity.
Designed as a cultural Olympics, the festival highlighted the shared values and unique traditions that bind Nigeria’s people.
A statement by Dr Dennis Olofu, the Head of Media of the National Council for Arts and Culture(NCAC) noted that participants showcased their talents across a wide range of cultural activities.
The Official Opening and Closing Ceremonies particularly featured performances and dignitaries celebrating the festival’s achievements.
The premiere of the play “Ibe Ji Mma”, was noteworthy as it added theatrical brilliance to the festivities.
Platforms like the Creative Economy Town Hall and the Creative Leap Accelerator Programme (CLAP) and the free skills acquisition training, nurtured entrepreneurship in the arts and fostered creative talent.
The competitive spirit of NAFEST shone brightly, with impressive performances across disciplines:
Bayelsa State led in Children’s Arts and Crafts and Archery, while Ekiti State excelled in the Swag Show and Children’s Essay Competition.
The Culture Quiz saw Taraba State taking first place, showcasing exceptional knowledge of Nigeria’s heritage.
Ekiti and Lagos secured second and third overall positions, respectively, reflecting the depth of talent across the states, while Nasarawa state took home the primed trophies for Jollof Wars and Dance-Off, capping it up with silver and bronze in dambe and Children’s Storytelling respectively.
Mr Obi Asika, Director General of the NCAC, described NAFEST as a unifying celebration of Nigeria’s cultural wealth.
“NAFEST is more than an event; it is a dynamic platform that fosters unity and cultural pride,” he stated.
“With over five decades of existence, it has proven to be an indispensable bridge for interaction among Nigeria’s diverse peoples. This year’s theme, ‘Connected Culture,’ captures our mission to strengthen the bonds that unite us through our shared heritage.”
Asika expressed gratitude to all participating states and partners, reaffirming NAFEST’s role as a springboard for cultural and economic advancement.
The statement by Dr. Olofu said “The festival’s benefits extend far beyond the stage as NAFEST’s events emphasing entrepreneurship and the creative economy provides opportunities for artisans and young talents to thrive, while its educational components instill cultural appreciation in the next generation.
“Additionally, the vibrant Arts and Crafts Cultural Market serves as a hub for showcasing indigenous products, contributing to economic growth and cultural diplomacy.
“As the curtains fall on the 36th edition of NAFEST, the festival leaves a legacy of unity, pride, and inspiration, proving once again that Nigeria’s cultural diversity is its greatest strength.”
