The maiden edition of Kogi International Carnival initiated to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the different ethnic groups in the state, will open on December 1 to 7.
The carnival is designed to showcase the people’s culture and woo local and international investors to explore the vast investment opportunities in the confluence state to plough investors’ capital back into the state’s economy and Nigeria.
The carnival, which will be held simultaneously in Lokoja, Kabba, Okene, and Ayingba, will present the cultural diversity of the state on a global stage showcasing music, dance, dress, food, and more as found among different ethnic groups that make up the North Central state.
With the theme “Come, Experience, Explore and Invest in the Confluence State Celebrating Unity, Promoting Tourism, and Empowering Local Communities”, the carnival is meant to key into the season of celebration that the yuletide period presents across the globe. It will not only be for entertainment but also investment while focusing on tourism to keep the state in the memory of the guests expected to throng the event from all over the world.
The event, which was designed to be citizen-driven has continued to receive the endorsement of prominent indigenes of Kogi State in various sectors, including traditional rulers. In particular, a foremost Marketing Communication practitioner, who doubles as President of the Nigeria chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA), Mr. Steve Babaeko has pledged to support the carnival.
Speaking on the carnival activities, leader of the Kogi International Carnival (KIC) 2024 project team, Prince Philip Orebiyi described the carnival as “more than just a celebration.” He emphasized its role in fostering cultural exchange, community bonding, and global recognition of Kogi State’s unique offerings.
“The Kogi International Carnival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our shared humanity, and showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to the world. Visitors will have a unique experience that highlights our state’s beauty, talent, and investment potential. We invite everyone to join us for this unforgettable experience,” Orebiyi said.
According to Orebiyi, KIC will feature spectacular performances by local and international artists; cultural exhibitions and traditional dance displays; food festivals featuring local and international cuisines; fashion shows showcasing Nigerian and African designs; and workshops and masterclasses on art, music, and entrepreneurship.
Babaeko, CEO/ Chief Creative Officer of X3M Ideas, described Kogi State as a unique state that has a lot of historical relevance to Nigeria. He called on Kogites, home and abroad to rally round the team championing the course to organise the one-week carnival and use it to position Kogi state as an ideal destination for tourism, cultural heritage and gateway to Federal Capital territory.
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According to Babaeko, “Historically, Kogi is a unique state, with bountiful potentials and geographical relevance. Kogi has a lot of potential, including a good geographical location, abundant natural resources, and a growing population that needs to be explored.
From Lokoja to Kabba, Okene to Ida, down to Obajana, there are so many hidden treasures that need to be tapped. With this international carnival, the government and stakeholders would be able to attract attention to Kogi State as a home of opportunities.
Taking Agriculture for instance, from time immemorial, the people of Kogi State have been the food basket of the nation, farming in Kogi, Ekiti, Ondo and Osun State. More importantly, the proximity of Kogi State to Abuja allows our farmers to move their outputs to the FCT with ease.
“With a state like Kogi State, the Federal Government need not look far for willing partners at a time when Nigeria is facing significant food security challenges, with nearly 25 million people at risk of hunger due to climate change, inflation, and rising food prices,” Babaeko stated.
The carnival is aimed at fostering culture, promoting tourism, and empowering local communities through music, art, and entertainment.
Expected at the carnival are renowned musicians and performers, international cultural ambassadors, local and national government officials as well as investors and entrepreneurs.