Bayelsa State shines at NAFEST 2024 as Nigeria’s premier cultural festival celebrates unity and diversity through vibrant traditions and creativity.

The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) concluded with a spectacular showcase of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, with Bayelsa State taking the top prize.

Hosted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the theme “Connected Culture”, the week-long event brought participants and dignitaries from across the nation to celebrate unity through diversity.

NAFEST 2024 featured a vibrant mix of competitive and non-competitive events, highlighting indigenous traditions, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

Participants showcased their talents in activities such as Children’s Storytelling, Traditional Board Games like Ayo, Wrestling, Dambe Boxing, Archery, and the crowd-favourite Jollof Wars.

Musical and dance competitions, including Sing-Off Naija and Dance-Off Naija, added rhythmic energy to the festivities.

Bayelsa State excelled in Children’s Arts and Crafts and Archery, clinching the overall winner’s title. Ekiti and Lagos States secured second and third positions, respectively, while Nasarawa State earned acclaim in the Jollof Wars and Dance-Off.

In non-competitive events, the festival presented theatrical brilliance with the premiere of the play “Ibe Ji Mma”, and educational programmes like the Culture Quiz and Essay Writing Competition engaged younger participants.

The Creative Economy Town Hall and Creative Leap Accelerator Programme (CLAP) nurtured entrepreneurial skills, alongside free training sessions for artisans and creatives.

NAFEST 2024 also underscored the importance of local materials and craftsmanship through competitions focused on indigenous designs for interior decoration.

The Arts and Crafts Cultural Market served as a hub for showcasing Nigeria’s diverse products, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.

Speaking on the festival’s success, Mr Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, described NAFEST as a “unifying celebration of Nigeria’s cultural wealth.”

He emphasised that the festival’s theme, “Connected Culture”, reflects the shared values that strengthen bonds across Nigeria’s diverse communities.

“NAFEST is more than an event; it is a platform that fosters unity, cultural pride, and economic opportunity,” Asika remarked, expressing gratitude to participating states and partners.

As the curtains close on this landmark edition, NAFEST reaffirms its role as a vital tool for preserving heritage, promoting tourism, and inspiring national cohesion.

With over five decades of existence, the festival continues to be a bridge that unites Nigerians through shared cultural pride.