Special adviser to the Kogi State governor on arts and culture, Hon. Juwon Demas Olorunnipa, has said the Kogi International Carnival slated for the first week of December would boost the state’s economy.
In an interview, Olorunnipa, who is also one of the organisers, said the international-standard hotels in the state would receive more patronage.
He said, “With thousands of visitors around for the one week of the carnival, it will boost the state’s hospitality sector. Naturally, there is always a boost in business during festivities, given that the influx of people into the area tends to boost the local economy. This is because there is increasing demand for accommodation, food, transportation and other facilities and businesses.
“Since we brought the idea of the carnival, it has attracted huge support from Kogi indigenes worldwide. Kogi is blessed with many successful men and women in business, politics, entertainment and various endeavours. One such person is the immediate past president of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, Steve Babaeko, who has identified with us fully and given us necessary support.”
According to the aide, the event comes up between December 1 and 7. He said the need to organise the carnival and make it an annual tradition was to tell the world about the untapped resources in Kogi has been endorsed by Governor Ahmed Ododo.
He said, “With the theme “Come, Experience, Explore, and Invest in the Confluence State,” the Kogi International Carnival is designed to show to the world through a week-long celebration of culture, tourism and community development, the potential in the Confluence State. The carnival will be held across four cities: Lokoja, Kabba, Okene and Ayingba. KIC 2024 celebrates our shared humanity and showcases Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will have a unique experience highlighting our state’s beauty, talent, and investment potential. To this end, we invite everyone to join us for this unforgettable experience.
“Kogi’s geographical location is a blessing. It’s common to hear our people describing their state as a gateway to Nigeria because of its closeness to the Federal Capital Territory and, by extension, to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. In the area of security, Kogi is one of the safest states in Nigeria. The carnival will feature spectacular performances by local and international artists; cultural exhibitions and traditional dance displays; food festivals featuring local and international cuisine; fashion shows showcasing Nigerian and African designs; workshops and masterclasses on art, music, and entrepreneurship.”
