One of the biggest cultural tourism events in Nigeria, the Ekiti State Cultural Festival (EKIFEST2019), was opened in grand style earlier today, by the state Governor, John Kayode Fayemi.

The event which saw colourful displays by various Nigerian tribes, was well attended by digniteries from across the federation.

EKIFEST2019 which carries the theme, ‘Arts and Culture: Tools for restoration of values and socio-economic empowerment’, was opened earlier today by Kayode Fayemi, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State.

Governor Fayemi who revealed plans of the state government to invest in culture and tourism stated that a new ministry of culture would be created.

Speaking at the event, the Director General, Ekiti State Council for Arts and Culture, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, stated that the event was not just for people to dance and celebrate, but also showcase how our culture can be turned into an economic engagement. Speaking with EkitiReporters, he said;

“Ekiti people should expect resuscitation and showcasing of our cultural values, and festivals that are unique to Ekiti state. We are placing all this in the global perspective and platform, so people can appreciate, embrace, and also to lure them to come and invest in the state. We are bringing out all our indigenous occupations so as to turn them into an economic engagement.”

“We are moving from just mere entertainment to empowerment and economic development. We are using culture to develop the economy of our people, we are not just coming here to parade and dance but also to make money.”

The EKIFEST2019 continues with traditional poetry, traditional games and sports, visit to Ikogosi Warm Springs, colloquium/workshops, fashion show, among other things.

See photos from the event below

Source: https://ekitireporters.com/photo-news-ekifest2019-opens-grand-style/

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Impressive!