Ekiti vise l'emploi et les investissements avec le festival des arts

Ekiti State Government has announced plans to leverage the annual Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture, known as EKIFEST, to drive job creation, attract investments and promote economic diversification. The 2026 edition of the festival, themed “Continuity: Pathway to Enduring Shared Prosperity,” is set to take place in the state capital, Ado Ekiti, from August 11 to 15. The event, which has become a cornerstone of the state's cultural calendar, is being positioned as a strategic tool to highlight the region's rich artistic legacy while fostering growth and opportunity. The festival, which began as a modest cultural gathering, has grown into a major platform for showcasing Ekiti’s creative potential. According to Prof Rasaki Bakare, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, the state has already benefited significantly from the creative sector, with residents' appreciation for Ekiti’s artistic traditions contributing to both local pride and economic activity. Bakare emphasized that EKIFEST 2026 represents a bold step toward discovering emerging talent, empowering youth and reinforcing Ekiti’s reputation as a center of creative excellence and ethical leadership. The festival will serve as a stage for diverse artistic expressions, including traditional performances, indigenous games, culinary arts, and contemporary fashion. It will also provide a space for young artists and entrepreneurs to display their work, drawing attention from investors and cultural enthusiasts. Bakare noted that the event is designed to stimulate economic diversification by attracting businesses and funding interested in supporting the creative industries. A key component of this year’s festival will be the recognition of individuals who have contributed to Ekiti’s cultural landscape. Among the honorees will be the late Olowe of Ise, a revered figure in Ekiti’s artistic history, who will be honored posthumously. Living legends such as Chief Ojo Olowojolu, Odunlade Adekola and Peju Ogunmola will also receive awards for their contributions to the state’s cultural identity. Additionally, prominent figures like Senator Babafemi Ojudu and Dr Tope Agbeyo will be acknowledged for their support of the arts. The festival will welcome a range of high-profile guests, including the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Obi Asika. Local leaders, including members of the state Executive Council, representatives of the state House of Assembly, local government officials, and traditional rulers, are expected to attend. These dignitaries will join the public in celebrating the festival’s role as a unifying force that bridges tradition with innovation. Over the course of five days, visitors can expect a variety of activities, including a dramatic performance titled The Trial of Omoluwabi, traditional wrestling matches, musical and dance exhibitions, and competitions in children’s visual arts and essay writing. Traditional cuisine and bush bar, a form of communal dining, will also be featured, offering attendees a taste of Ekiti’s culinary heritage. A special focus will be placed on women’s participation, with a dedicated drumming competition highlighting the role of female performers in the region’s cultural fabric. As one of the leading cultural showcases in Nigeria, EKIFEST has consistently drawn crowds from across the nation and beyond. This year’s edition promises to expand on that success, using the festival as a catalyst for sustainable development and cross-sector collaboration. With its emphasis on heritage, creativity and community engagement, EKIFEST 2026 stands as a testament to Ekiti’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and building a more prosperous future.