The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) officially began over the weekend in Abuja, with the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, reaffirming the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering a thriving arts and culture sector.
The festival, themed “Connected Culture,” aims to celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity while leveraging it for economic development.
Represented by Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Director General of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), the minister underscored the importance of unity in diversity. She called on Nigerians to reject divisive tendencies and harness their creativity and resilience for national growth.
“Nigeria’s diversity, creativity, and resilience stand us in good stead to achieve remarkable growth. This festival is not just a celebration of culture but a platform for fostering unity and showcasing our potential on the global stage,” Musawa said during the opening ceremony at the Craft Village, Abuja.
NAFEST, conceived in 1970 following the Nigerian Civil War, was created to promote national unity and reintegration. Organized annually by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), the festival has grown from a cultural showcase to a platform for economic innovation under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
This year, the festival’s Director General, Obi Asika, highlighted the evolution of NAFEST as a more dynamic and inclusive event. Asika, known for his contributions to Nigeria’s music and media industries, emphasized the economic potential of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
“This edition of NAFEST is designed to broaden its scope, attracting a diverse audience, including members of the diaspora,” Asika said. “Nigeria’s culture is an asset that can be monetized and made profitable. What binds the Nigerian people is far greater than what divides us.”
Asika’s background in the entertainment sector, including his role as founder of the music label Storm 360, positions him as a visionary leader for NCAC. His efforts are expected to align the festival with global creative trends and increase its economic impact.
The nine-day event, running from November 22 to 30, 2024, began with a vibrant cultural parade featuring representatives from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Adorned in traditional attire, participants performed dances unique to their heritage, offering a visual celebration of Nigeria’s cultural richness.
Dr. Dennis Olofu, NCAC’s Head of Media, noted that NAFEST 2024 would highlight national unity through activities showcasing Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.
Bayelsa State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Development, Dr. Iti Orugbani, commended the Federal Government’s renewed focus on the creative industry. He emphasized his state’s commitment to aligning its cultural initiatives with global standards, ensuring the sector contributes to the global creative value chain.
Saaniyol Akiga, Assistant PRO of the Benue State Council for Arts and Culture, echoed this sentiment, applauding the national initiative to elevate NAFEST to global recognition. Akiga shared that Benue’s contingent, known for its award-winning performances, aims to set new benchmarks this year.
With a clear focus on economic returns, cultural preservation, and global outreach, NAFEST 2024 represents a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to redefine its arts and culture sector. As the festival unfolds, stakeholders are optimistic that the investments in human and material resources will yield lasting benefits for the nation.
