Festivals
Fury Over Award Of Osun Osogbo Festival’s Contract To Non-Yoruba Firm
Published
6 months agoon
By
Lanre
STAKEHOLDERS in Osun State have expressed displeasure over an allegation that major contracts pertaining to the 2024 Osun Osogbo Festival were awarded to a firm that belongs to a non-Yoruba person.
Akonitv reports that according to the aggrieved stakeholders, some state governments in the South West have been fond of giving out vital contracts to consulting firms and agencies owned by people who are not from the region.
Citing the particular case of the award of marketing rights of the Osun Osogbo festival to a non-indigenous agency, the stakeholders held that the development contradicts the historical dignity of the Yoruba race and sounds sacrilegious.
They, therefore called for the immediate revocation of the contract, saying that the involvement of an Igbo company undermines the festival’s authenticity and values to Yoruba heritage.
But reacting to the development, the Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Olawale Rasheed, described the news linking Governor Adeleke to the award of the contract to a non-indigene as fake.
“We seek to clarify clearly that neither the governor nor the state government is the organiser of Osun Osogbo festival. Those who need information on Osun Osogbo festival are directed to reach out to the Ataoja in-Council,” he said.
Also, the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Adebisi Olawale, said he did not know the aspect of the festival that was contracted out because there are many aspects to the festival.
He said: “There are never a time other members of ethnic groups partake in any contractual aspect of the festival.”
However, a source within the Ataoja’s palace who craved anonymity in a telephone interview with Akonitv yesterday, said the allegation may be the handiwork of mischief makers.
The source said the consultancy application for the Osun Osogbo festival was thrown open for different for firms to apply, saying the qualified one was selected at the end of a thorough process.
“We made the application open for everyone to apply and the one who can offer us the best was selected based on their experience without discriminating. We cannot choose someone who cannot give us the best because he or she is from Osun or Yoruba.
“Those who are aggrieved are the ones who were not selected for the consultancy of the festival,” the source said.
Also, a staff of the Osun/Osogbo grove who do not want his name in print told Akonitv that the person handling the project is not an Igbo as being spread in the media.
The staff noted that the consultant handling the project is a half-caste, saying others are furious because they are not favoured for the contract.
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Festivals
Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert
Published
2 weeks agoon
February 1, 2025By
Lanre
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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Festivals
Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival
Published
3 weeks agoon
January 21, 2025By
Lanre
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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Festivals
Calabar Carnival 2024 attracts over 300,000 tourists, boosts local economy
Published
4 weeks agoon
January 13, 2025By
Lanre
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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