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.”

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.”

By ABAH ADAH, Abuja

The Executive Director of Women in Mining Africa, WiM-Africa, and GMD of Richflood Group, Dr Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, has been named one of 2024 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining, WIM100.

This recognition by Women in Mining UK, according to a statement made available to newsmen, celebrates 100 exceptional women driving transformation, inclusivity, and sustainability in the global mining industry.

The recognition ceremony took place at the BMO office and the Institute of Directors in London, where mining leaders from across the world gathered to honour the mining Women in mining champs..

Dr Asokoro-Ogaji was the sole Nigerian on the 2024 list and one of 25 African honorees, highlighting her extraordinary contributions to the continent’s mining sector and her advocacy for women’s inclusion and leadership in the industry, according to the statement.

“This recognition reflects the resilience and commitment of African women to redefining the mining landscape,” Dr Asokoro-Ogaji remarked, adding, “It underscores the need to foster sustainable practices and create opportunities for future leaders in mining.”

The statement explained that a WIM100 woman is a pioneer, a change-maker, and a champion for responsible, sustainable, and inclusive practices in mining, values which Dr Asokoro-Ogaji embodies as reflected in her tireless efforts to drive meaningful change in Africa’s mining industry.

The WIM100 distinction is celebrated biennially, following a rigorous selection process. Honourees are chosen for their unwavering leadership, innovative contributions, and dedication to fostering responsible mining practices.

The statement also noted that as part of the honour, Asokoro-Ogaji and fellow awardees will participate in the Resourcing Tomorrow event, a high-profile gathering that brings together over 500 investors, providing a unique opportunity to attract investment and advance the solid mineral operations across Africa.

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle,, met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, marking a key moment in bilateral relations.

A statement released by Matawalle’s media assistant, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, described the event as a significant milestone in strengthening ties between Nigeria and South Africa.

The BNC has long served as a vital platform for advancing cooperation in sectors such as defense, security, and economics. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing strategic partnerships and promoting mutual interests in these areas during the talks.

In particular, Dr. Matawalle’s participation emphasized Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to bolster regional stability, with a focus on defense collaboration and peacekeeping missions across Africa. The two leaders expressed a shared vision for a more resilient and united continent, focused on tackling common challenges.

The BNC discussions also touched on ways to address broader issues such as economic development and security threats in both countries. With Africa facing numerous challenges, both nations have emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue to ensure sustainable growth and stability.

“The engagement between Dr. Matawalle and President Ramaphosa sets the stage for future collaboration,” the statement said, noting that the meeting is expected to pave the way for continued bilateral dialogue and action on pressing regional issues.

The strengthened relations come at a critical time for Africa, as both Nigeria and South Africa play central roles in the African Union and other international platforms for peace and security.

By reinforcing their strategic partnership, the two countries aim to leverage their combined influence to foster regional peace and drive economic progress, ensuring Africa’s future is shaped by unity and collective action.