The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) concluded in Abuja, with Bayelsa State emerging as the top performer.
This year’s event, which spanned an entire week, brought together people from all corners of Nigeria to honor the nation’s diverse traditions under the theme “Connected Culture.”
NAFEST 2024 served as a vibrant display of Nigeria’s cultural wealth, offering a blend of competitive and non-competitive events that allowed participants to showcase their unique talents.
It featured activities that ranged from storytelling and traditional board games like Ayo to indigenous sports such as Traditional Wrestling and Dambe Boxing.
Other exciting events included Archery, musical performances through Sing-Off Naija, and energetic dance competitions in Dance-Off Naija.
One of the standout competitions was the Jollof Wars, where top chefs battled to prepare Nigeria’s beloved dish. Additionally, students participated in educational contests like the Children’s Essay Writing Competition and the Culture Quiz, further promoting the understanding of Nigeria’s heritage among the younger generation.
Events that focused on the use of indigenous materials in modern design also attracted attention, showcasing the fusion of tradition with contemporary creativity.
While the competitive events brought out impressive displays of skill, NAFEST also featured non-competitive showcases that brought a sense of unity and celebration to the occasion.
These included a grand opening and closing ceremony, performances of local theater productions like Ibe Ji Mma, and discussions in forums such as the Creative Economy Town Hall, which encouraged artistic entrepreneurship. Free skills training sessions were also held, offering opportunities for young Nigerians to enhance their craft.
Bayelsa’s performance stood out with wins in the Children’s Arts & Crafts and Archery events. Ekiti State shone in the Swag Show and Essay Competition, while Taraba claimed top honors in the Culture Quiz.
Other notable performers included Lagos, which secured the third position overall, and Nasarawa, which triumphed in both the Jollof Wars and Dance-Off. Ekiti earned second place, showcasing a wealth of talent across the board.
In his remarks, Obi Asika, the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, commended the festival for promoting national unity and cultural pride.
NAFEST, he noted, serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange and growth, strengthening connections among Nigeria’s diverse peoples.
The festival not only highlighted the artistic talents of Nigerians but also contributed to the growth of local tourism, business, and entrepreneurship. The Arts and Crafts Cultural Market provided artisans a space to showcase their work, further encouraging economic development.
