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    Akesan Day: VP Shettima Says Unity Lies in Nigerians’ Shared Heritage

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    Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that the unity of the people of Nigerians lies in their various cultures and traditions.

    Shettima made this known on Saturday during the celebration of the 37th edition of the Akesan day held at the Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.

     

     

    The Vice President added that the Akesan day was a testimony to the potential that lies with the citizens of the country when they unite under the banner of their shared heritage.

    He also called on the people of the country to harness the past to show a brighter future for generations to come, added that Nigerians should also learn from Iperu-Remo the spirit of unity for operational determination.

    “The Akesan festival stands as a testimony to the potential that lies within us when we unite under the banner of our shared heritage.
    “This edition of the festival like the ones before it speaks of the essence of the unity we have forged as a nation, it symbolizes the heart beat of our nation.

     

     

    “I commend you for investing significant time and resources to establish Iperu-Remo on the map and to remind us of this heritage.

    “You have reinforced the identities and pride of our communities, fostering their patriotism and their commitment to pursuing our collective progress and nurturing the bonds that bind us as a people,” VP Shettima said.

    The Vice President was un company with the host governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.
    Other state governors that graced the occasion included Babajide Sanwoolu of Lagos State, Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Abdulrahman Abdurasaq and former Governor of Ogun State, Akinrogun Olusegun Osoba.

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    Festivals

    Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert

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    Phynofest 2025

    Phyno announces the return of Phynofest to Enugu in 2025, promising a bigger and better experience for fans. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration

     

    Phyno, the Nigerian rapper and music legend, has officially revealed that his highly anticipated annual concert, *Phynofest*, will be making a spectacular return to Enugu in 2025.

    Also read: Enugu to host 23rd national sports festival in 2026

    After a brief hiatus, the event, renowned for selling out in previous editions, is set to make a grand comeback, thrilling fans with a bigger and better show than ever before.

    Taking to social media to share the exciting news, Phyno expressed his excitement and anticipation for the event. He wrote, “Enugu, it’s about to be lit again! Phynofest is back, and this year we’re going bigger and better. You all have been asking for it, and now it’s time to make history again.”

    The popular rapper, whose real name is Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also shared that part of his visit to the state would involve discussions with the governor regarding plans for the November 2025 concert.

    Emphasising the importance of government support, Phyno noted that it would be crucial in ensuring the event’s success and boosting tourism in the state.

    Since its inception, Phynofest has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated and iconic music festivals. Known for its electrifying performances, star-studded lineups, and thrilling atmosphere, Phynofest attracts thousands of fans to Enugu, the Coal City.

    The concert has previously featured some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Olamide, Flavour, and Zoro, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

    Phyno’s loyal fanbase, particularly in the Eastern region, eagerly awaits the event each year, and this year’s return has sparked widespread excitement.

    Fans have already begun speculating about potential guest appearances and surprises, with many commenting online about the anticipation. One fan expressed on Instagram, “We’ve missed this! Phynofest always brings the whole state together.”

    Phyno, known for his distinctive blend of rap and indigenous Igbo sounds, continues to shape the Nigerian music landscape.

    His influence spans beyond the music scene, with his cultural contributions making him a significant figure in the Eastern part of Nigeria and throughout the country.

    Phynofest has become a symbol of this cultural impact, drawing attention to the state of Enugu while providing an unparalleled platform for music lovers to celebrate Nigerian talent.

    Though the official venue for the 2025 Phynofest is yet to be revealed, Phyno reassured fans that further announcements would follow soon, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next big update.

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    Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival

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    2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

    Katsina State will host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, promoting African cultural values, food security, and regional development

     

    Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North West, has been chosen to host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed *“African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”*

    Also read: Detty December in Lagos boosts economy, tourism, entertainment

    This prestigious event aims to unite key stakeholders to address security challenges affecting farming and agriculture across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    The announcement was made by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

    Scheduled for 2025, the festival will spotlight Katsina as a hub for cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and economic development.

    Governor Radda stated that the festival would emphasise African cultural values while advancing food security, peace, and development across the ECOWAS region.

    It is expected to attract local and international investors in agriculture, boosting economic opportunities in Katsina State.

    The festival will also create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including event management, tourism, logistics, and local markets. These opportunities will benefit the state’s youth, artisans, and small businesses.

    Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, highlighted the festival’s potential to stimulate demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation.

    The influx of visitors will boost the local economy while showcasing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage.

    Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, commended Governor Radda for his warm reception and unwavering support, describing the upcoming festival as a landmark event for the region.

    The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival is expected to be a transformative event, reinforcing Katsina State’s role as a cultural and agricultural leader in West Africa.

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    Calabar Carnival 2024 attracts over 300,000 tourists, boosts local economy

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    Calabar Carnival 2024 tourism

    Calabar Carnival 2024 drew over 300,000 tourists, driving a 42% increase in attendance and generating billions in revenue for Cross River.

     

     

    The recently concluded 32-day Calabar Carnival 2024 proved a monumental success, attracting over 300,000 tourists and generating billions in revenue for Cross River State.

    This marked a 42% increase in attendance compared to 2023, according to the Cross River Tourism Bureau.

     

    Also read: Calavegas band secures back-to-back Carnival càlabar wins

     

    Speaking in Lagos, the bureau’s Managing Director, Ekpenyong Ojoi, revealed that the carnival, which ran from 1 November to 31 December 2024, brought a significant influx of visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

    “Calabar recorded over 300,000 tourists during the festival period, with most visitors coming from Abuja, Lagos, and neighbouring Akwa Ibom State,” Ojoi stated.

    He highlighted that the 2024 festival saw a significant rise in onsite spectators, with an estimated 450,000 attending key events such as the Cultural Carnival, Children’s Carnival, and Bikers Carnival. This was a substantial increase from the 279,486 spectators recorded in 2023.

    Furthermore, the carnival achieved global visibility, with over 1.2 billion viewers watching via DSTV channel 198 and over 100 million viewers tuning in through online streaming platforms.

    The tourism boom translated into remarkable economic benefits for Calabar. From November to December 2024, hotel occupancy rates rose from 57% in 2023 to 68%, with many establishments achieving full capacity during peak dates in December.

     

    Revenue highlights include:

    • Hotel bookings: Estimated at ₦2.79 billion ($1.74 million), driven by 100% occupancy at key hotels such as Hogis Royale and Metropolitan Hotel.
    • Food and breakfast sales: Estimated at ₦900 million ($562,000).
    • Ticketed events: Funfest, Calabar Fashion Show, and Queen of Humanity generated ₦100 million ($66,000).
    • Nightlife: The city’s top five nightclubs contributed ₦400 million ($267,000).
    • Miscellaneous activities: Online streaming, food, drinks, dancers, and car rentals added another ₦1 billion ($667,000).
    • Transportation: Visitors spent an estimated ₦8.87 billion on air, road, and sea travel.

     

     

    Ojoi also emphasised the cultural significance of the carnival, with tourists visiting key attractions such as the OMR, Marina Resort, and Kwa Falls. The festival continues to strengthen Calabar’s reputation as a premier destination for cultural tourism in Nigeria.

    “The Calabar Carnival is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of our rich heritage, a boost to our economy, and an opportunity to connect with the world,” Ojoi added.

    As the Cross River State Government continues its efforts to promote tourism, the success of the 2024 Calabar Carnival demonstrates the transformative potential of cultural events in driving economic growth and global recognition.

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