NAFEST A Cultural Olympics, Says Asika

Director General of the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mr Obi Asika has described NAFEST as a ‘Cultural Olympics’ of sorts that can ‘connect’ and ‘empower’ Nigerians’.

Asika who is experiencing NAFEST for the first time, was filled with awe at the fashion, performance, uniqueness and similarities of Nigerian cultures on display at the opening ceremony of the 2024 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) themed ‘Connected Culture’.

He noted that by highlighting similarities in Nigerian cultures, and then empower creatives and support the creative industry, Nigeria will unlock a treasure trove for national development.

He noted that beyond their DNAs, Nigerians are connected in more ways by their spirit, beyond the space they have existed in for over a million years.

“When you see what I saw together at the cultural march past, you will realise that our greatest asset is our culture. Our greatest asset is our people. And if you empower the people, and connect the cultures, then you can monetise the future, which is where we are going,” he said.

Whilst encouraging the participating states to showcase the best of their cultures in all the competitive categories – ‘Swag Off’, ‘Jollof Wars’, ‘Sing Off’ competitions, ‘Dambe Wrestling’ among others, Asika assured creatives that he, the ministries and fellow director generals in the sector are working to enlarge opportunities and operational spaces in the creative industry.

Highlighting her commitment to ‘creating an enabling environment to support the growth and development of the creative sector, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa, said, “We will continue to work tirelessly to promote Nigerian arts and culture globally, create job opportunities for our creative talents, and preserve our rich cultural heritage for future generations”.

She also urged participants to inspire attendees of NAFEST by creatively sharing the best of their stories, talents and culture.

“Let us celebrate our diversity, creativity and resilience. Let us promote arts and culture as a catalyst for national development,” Musawa said.

The National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2024 holds November 23 to 30, alongside the NCAC’s International Arts and Crafts Expo (INAC) which opened November 18 to 30, both at the Arts and Crafts Village, Abuja, Nigeria.