BY ANTHONY OCHELA, ABUJA
Nasarawa State emerged as a cultural powerhouse at the 36th National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2024, clinching the highly coveted title of Jollof Wars Champion.
The festival, themed “Connected Culture,” celebrated the rich tapestry of Nigerian heritage, with Nasarawa State making an unforgettable impact.
Renowned as the Home of Solid Minerals, Nasarawa State brought its vibrant cultural diversity to life through captivating performances, traditional crafts, and mouthwatering cuisine.
The state’s contingent, comprising 110 participants, showcased talents in drama, traditional wrestling (dembe), dance-offs, and children storytelling, demonstrating a harmonious blend of artistry and tradition.
The Jollof Wars competition, the main highlight of NAFEST 2024, witnessed fierce rivalry among 14 states, including Lagos, Rivers, Niger, and Bayelsa.
Over several elimination rounds, Nasarawa State’s culinary team displayed remarkable creativity and skill, ultimately earning the top prize to thunderous applause during the closing ceremony.
Presenting the award, Mr. Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), lauded the competitive spirit and dedication of all participants.
“The energy and expertise showcased in every event were extraordinary, making the judges’ task a challenging one,” he said.
Asika praised the adjudicators for their diligence and commended the contestants for their exemplary conduct.
Nasarawa State also excelled in other events, securing the following accolades: Winner: Dance-Off Competition. 2nd Place: Dembe (Traditional Wrestling) and 3rd Place: Children’s Storytelling
Reacting to the victory, Mrs. Gloria Ashikeni, Director of the Nasarawa State Council for Arts and Culture, expressed gratitude to the state government for its unwavering support.
She credited Governor Abdullahi Sule and the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy for providing financial, psychological, and moral backing, which she described as the driving force behind the team’s success.
“Nasarawa came prepared to excel, and our results speak volumes about our commitment,” Ashikeni stated.
She extended appreciation to other participating states for their sportsmanship and reiterated that NAFEST remains a platform for cultural unity, youth empowerment, and creative expression.
Beyond competitions, Nasarawa State leveraged NAFEST to promote its tourism potentials, including: Farin Ruwa Falls – One of the tallest waterfalls in Africa, Keana Salt Village – A hub for traditional salt mining and the Eggon Hills – A scenic destination for adventurers and nature lovers.
A statement by Dr Dennis Olofu, the Head of Media of the National Council for Arts and Culture(NCAC) said “The state’s artisans also displayed their expertise in pottery, weaving, and bead-making, with items such as Keffi and Akwanga pottery and calabash carvings drawing significant attention.
“These crafts not only celebrate heritage but also contribute to economic empowerment for local communities.
“Nasarawa State’s exemplary performance at NAFEST 2024 underscores its dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural diversity and fostering unity through artistic expression.
“By addressing existing challenges and building on its achievements, the state is poised to remain a formidable force in Nigeria’s cultural landscape.”
