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    Ecobank’s “Adire Lagos” opens in grand style with over 100 exhibitors

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    Ecobank’s “Adire Lagos” opens in grand style with over 100 exhibitors

    The annual Ecobank “Adire Lagos” exhibition has taken off in grand style with over 100 exhibitors showcasing their wares. The 4-day fair which opened June 14 and ends 17th, is taking place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos.

    Originating from Abeokuta in Southwestern Nigeria, Adire textile is an indigenous indigo-dyed cloth made by using different wax-resistant methods to create dazzling designs. The four-day Adire exhibition, returning for the third year in a row, is to promote culture, tourism, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and enable them benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Some of the international exhibitors at the fair include Adire Oodua, Tampoori, Jide Batik, Janae, Asologe and host of others.

    The fair is set to witnessing influx of topflight exhibitors, government functionaries, culture enthusiasts, social media influencers, artistes, local and foreign tourists, traditional rulers, and members of the diplomatic community. It provides an exceptional opportunity to network with entrepreneurs, shoppers, and everyone in the business of Adire.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Executive Director, Commercial Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Kola Adeleke said the exhibition is part of the efforts of the bank to support the creative industry in the country, adding that it was also to promote micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and help them benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    According to him, “As you all know, we are part of a Pan African bank which operates in 33 countries of Africa. We always look out to support various initiatives on the continent and this adire exhibition fits into the scheme. As you can see, today, we have over 100 merchants who are being given the opportunity to showcase their adire products. This is the biggest that we’ve ever seen. It is an international exhibition. We want to support them all the way, train them and make them international brands with indigenous backgrounds. We want to ensure they are able to export their locally-created products across the continent. This is also one way to support the Nigerian economy.”

    Exhibitors and attendees alike were enthusiastic and full of commendation for Ecobank. Ecobank Nigeria, a key driver of tourism, culture and the creative industries in Nigeria, recently hosted the +234Art, a 10-day art fair dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the burgeoning art industry in Nigeria.

    The fair provided a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition; the bank organised the Photography, Art, and Design Exhibition (PADE) to commemorate World Photography Day in 2022; the bank also partnered “Songs & Stories” With Cobhams Asuquo; Redbull Dance Your Style; BellaNaija Style Summit and Loosing Daylight (An exhibition of the history of Nollywood organised by Nse Ikpe-Etim)

    Events

    Indomie Noodles celebrates Nigerian culture with vibrant Abuja carnival sponsorship

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    Abuja Carnival 2024

    Indomie Noodles sponsored the 2024 Abuja Carnival, uniting Nigerians through culture, tourism, and delightful brand experiences.

     

    Indomie Noodles has reaffirmed its dedication to celebrating Nigeria’s cultural diversity by sponsoring the 2024 Abuja Carnival.

    This highly anticipated event, making a triumphant return after an eight-year hiatus, showcased Nigeria’s rich traditions and vibrant heritage while promoting unity and boosting tourism.

     

    Also read: Rivers State shines as overall winner at 2024 Abuja international carnival

     

    The carnival began with a captivating opening ceremony, where Vice President Kashim Shettima set the tone with a passionate call for cultural celebration and national unity.

    For four days, participants and attendees experienced a spectacular fusion of colour, music, and tradition.

    One of the carnival’s most striking features was the grand assembly of participating states at the iconic Area 1 Bridge. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire and vibrant floats, they created a dazzling visual spectacle.

    Amidst the celebrations, Indomie stood out by offering magical and memorable experiences to carnival-goers, strengthening its bond with the Nigerian audience.

    Indomie’s uniquely decorated experiential booth was a hub of activity. Attendees enjoyed exciting games and delicious servings of freshly prepared noodles, while children enthusiastically joined in on the fun.

    The brand’s canvassers mingled with the crowd, further enlivening the festive atmosphere.

     

    Speaking on the sponsorship, Oluwaponmile Alabi, Indomie’s Marketing Manager, shared the company’s vision:

    “Indomie is a family brand; we are more than just a meal. Our participation in the carnival is part of our commitment to bringing people together and celebrating what matters most to Nigerians. Every bowl of Indomie served at the Abuja Carnival symbolises our shared identity and culture.”

     

    The carnival hosted a variety of activities, including enthralling street parades, traditional cooking competitions, children’s carnivals, cultural nights, and a grand masquerade fiesta.

    Indomie’s presence enriched these events, adding a delicious twist to the celebrations.

     

    Highlighting the company’s cultural alignment, Alabi added:

    “At Indomie, we believe that a brand that doesn’t evolve is destined to fade. Culture is the heartbeat of every Nigerian’s way of life, and it’s the perfect bridge to deepen our connection with consumers. We’re stepping into the new year with a renewed focus, aligning our flavours and identity with the vibrant culture that defines Nigeria.”

     

    Indomie’s active engagement at the carnival not only celebrated Nigeria’s heritage but also strengthened its position as a brand deeply woven into the fabric of Nigerian life.

    This sponsorship exemplifies its commitment to fostering unity, celebrating cultural diversity, and creating unforgettable consumer experiences.

    The Abuja Carnival 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a resounding success, and Indomie Noodles played a key role in ensuring its flavourful legacy.

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    Culturati Festival 2024: celebrating Africa’s diversity and unity in Lagos

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    Culturati Festival Lagos 2024

    Culturati Festival 2024 celebrates African culture with vibrant showcases, youth empowerment, and economic growth at Lagos’ iconic Freedom Park.

     

     

    The 18th edition of the Culturati Festival, a premier celebration of African culture and heritage, is set to take place from 5th to 7th December 2024 at Freedom Park, Lagos Island.

    Themed “Celebrate Diversity and Unity,” the festival promises a dynamic showcase of Africa’s rich cultural mosaic, blending tradition with modernity in the vibrant city of Lagos.

     

    Also read: Lagos Govt Set To Promote Cross-Cultural Heritage At Culturella Festival

     

    Organised by Culturati Africa in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, this year’s festival features initiatives that go beyond entertainment.

    Among these is the Culturati Community Library, a platform advocating for literacy and cultural education, ensuring that the region’s heritage remains accessible and impactful for future generations.

    At a recent press conference, Adetola Bakinson, CEO of Culturati Africa, highlighted the festival’s mission as more than a celebration.

    “Culturati is a movement dedicated to promoting cultural diversity, fostering empowerment, and creating economic and creative growth across the continent,” she stated.

    This year’s festival includes a trade fair for nearly 100 SMEs, organised in partnership with Naijabrandchick, offering businesses visibility, networking opportunities, and access to a broader audience.

    The initiative underscores the festival’s focus on economic empowerment, particularly within Lagos’ vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    The Culturati Academy, another key initiative, has already empowered over 10,000 young Nigerians with skills in digital marketing, video production, and content creation.

    Bakinson reaffirmed the festival’s commitment to equipping more youth with the tools needed to thrive in creative industries, driving sustainable growth in the cultural sector.

    Freedom Park, a former colonial-era prison turned arts and culture hub, will undergo further transformation during the festival.

    As a symbol of resilience and freedom, the venue will be refurbished to enhance its appeal as a major cultural and tourist landmark.

    “This isn’t just a festival,” Bakinson concluded, “It’s a movement for culture, empowerment, and economic growth. By integrating cultural diversity into Lagos’ development agenda, we aim to boost the state’s economy and reaffirm its status as a global cultural destination.”

    The Culturati Festival 2024 promises to attract dignitaries, creatives, and tourists from around the world, solidifying Lagos as a beacon of African culture and unity.

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    Nigerian, Linda Ifeoma Onyelabara, Wins Chinese Category at 2024 China-Africa Singing Competition

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    Linda Ifeoma Onyelabara China-Africa Singing Competition

    Miss Linda Ifeoma Onyelabara, a Nigerian graduate of Business Education and a Master’s degree holder in Chinese language, has emerged as the winner of the Chinese Language category at the 2024 Good Partners of China and Africa Chinese and English Singing Competition.

     

    The competition, aimed at fostering cultural ties between China and Nigeria through music and language, was held in Abuja, with participants competing in two categories: English and Chinese.

     

    A Historic Victory

    Linda, who competed in a field dominated by native Chinese speakers, walked away with a cash prize of ₦500,000 for her exceptional performance. She described her win as a dream come true, noting its significance in her artistic journey.

    “This competition is a pivotal moment in my journey. Personally, I write songs, and I think this is an opportunity for me to step out of my shell and showcase my talent,” she said.

    Linda attributed her success to determination and hard work, emphasizing the importance of learning additional languages.

    “When I was in school, I wanted to work in an embassy. I realized I needed to learn a language other than my mother tongue. The Chinese language offers vast opportunities in employment and cultural exchange,” she added.

    Bridging Cultures Through Music

    The event was organized by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and the China Cultural Center, in collaboration with China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited.

    The Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Yang Jianxing, highlighted the role of music as a universal language that strengthens ties between nations.

    “Music transcends borders, connects hearts, and showcases the richness of cultural expression. This event celebrates the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria through vibrant cultural exchange,” he said.

    Other Winners

    In the English Language category, Tan Jian clinched the first prize, also taking home ₦500,000. The second and third prizes in both categories were awarded ₦300,000 and ₦200,000, respectively.

    Encouraging Multilingualism

    Linda’s victory underscores the importance of language and cultural exchange in strengthening global relationships. As a role model, she encourages Nigerians to explore new languages, including Chinese, as pathways to greater opportunities in both personal and professional spheres.

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