Nigeria’s capital, Abuja came alive with colour and excitement as the iBelieve Carnival staged its latest three-day edition.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Diversity, Connecting Cultures, and Creating Tomorrow,” attracted Nigerians from all walks of life, uniting them in a vibrant celebration of the nation’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and art.
Speaking at the event, the Nigerian Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, represented by Assistant Director Alice Onoriode, expressed delight on behalf of the Minister and commended the event’s organizing committee chairman, Omoefe Tawiyah, for successfully bringing the carnival into its third edition.
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Onoriode noted that initiatives like this demonstrate a strong commitment to cultural development and national unity.
She said, “the iBelieve Carnival was described as an important platform to showcase Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage and foster tourism through creative exhibitions and performances.
Onoride encouraged attendees to support local artisans and entrepreneurs, characterizing the carnival as a dynamic space for cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and the celebration of Nigeria’s diversity.
“The iBelieve Carnival is an avenue to deliberate, promote, and market both tourism and culture,” she added
The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, NTDA, Olayiwola Awakan also addressed the attendees, emphasizing that culture, tourism, and art are fundamental to national identity and development.
The DG highlighted the importance of public and private sector collaboration and called on relevant stakeholders to work together in driving the Renewed Hope Agenda President Bola Tinubu.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Organizing Committee of the Abuja ibelieve carnival, Omoefe Tawiyah described the carnival as more than just a festival but a movement aimed at igniting hope and linking dreams to opportunities while celebrating Nigeria’s rich heritage.
This year’s three-day event included a range of activities such as entrepreneurship development, business networking, cultural exhibitions, culinary experiences, and performances that showcased the nation’s diverse identity.
He noted that the the carnival’s objectives include elevating Abuja and Nigeria as global tourism destinations, empowering small and medium enterprises, generating job opportunities, and reigniting national pride.