The World Iyan Carnival in Ekiti showcased the region’s rich culture, while launching innovative agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting economic development.

The much-anticipated inaugural World Iyan Carnival took centre stage in Ekiti State, bringing together cultural displays, innovative agricultural initiatives, and dynamic performances.

The event, themed “Agrotourism: A New Frontier for Sustainable Tourism and Economic Development,” highlighted the vibrant traditions of the Ekiti and Idoma people, with captivating yam presentations, Oriki Iyan recitations, and traditional dance performances.

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A key highlight of the carnival was the renowned Omoge Iyan pageant, celebrating beauty, culture, and tradition, which added excitement to the already exhilarating event.

Prince Ade Ajayi, the Founder of the World Iyan Carnival (WIC), expressed pride in the carnival’s success, stating that the event aimed to showcase Ekiti’s rich cultural heritage while shifting perceptions about the state’s economic potential.

He highlighted the carnival’s four transformative pillars: a 50 million yam tubers cultivation initiative, the documentation of the origin of Iyan in collaboration with Netflix, the creation of the Aafin Iyan Resort, and the annual celebration of the Iyan Carnival.

Ajayi noted that the carnival’s impact would go beyond cultural promotion, boosting the local economy and contributing to Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

He also announced the establishment of World Iyan Day, designated for December 27th, to annually celebrate these milestones.

A significant announcement during the event was the launch of the Office to Farm Agric Credit initiative, a pioneering project in agricultural financing.

This innovative initiative, developed through a seven-year research journey, seeks to bridge the gap between civil servants, private sector workers, and the agricultural sector.

Ajayi explained that the initiative would allow salary earners and institutions to invest in agriculture by financing and trading not only yam tubers but also other crops.

“This initiative is a key contribution to the Renewed Hope Campaign, which aims to revitalise Nigeria’s agricultural sector and unlock its potential for sustainable economic growth,” Ajayi said.

He shared plans to roll out the initiative across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, starting with the western region in early 2025.

The program will provide significant opportunities for individuals and organisations to participate in agricultural wealth creation.

The maiden World Iyan Carnival was attended by key government officials, including Dr. Olowoyo Sikiru, Senior Special Adviser on Agricultural Extension, and Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director-General of the Ekiti Bureau of Tourism.

The presence of these officials underscored the importance of the event in promoting both cultural tourism and agricultural development.

Ajayi also mentioned the collaboration with financial institutions and Africa’s leading blockchain technology company to create a platform for easier investment in agriculture, fostering a new era of agricultural wealth.

With the carnival and its initiatives, Ekiti State is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism and agricultural innovation.

As the World Iyan Carnival continues to grow, it is expected to play a significant role in the state’s economic development and in promoting the agricultural sector as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s future prosperity.