The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, said the state is set to host the 35th edition of the National Festival for Arts and Culture (NAFEST).
Mrs Akinbile-Yusuf during a media tour of the National Stadium, the venue for the festival in Lagos, on Friday, said all preparations had been completed.
She said that the festival slated to hold from the 7th to 14th would be the most memorable so far in the history of the nation.
She assured revellers across the federation that preparations had been completed in the area of infrastructure, security, transportation, and others.
She appreciated Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State for the huge support in ensuring the preparations were made in due course.
“As you can all see that we are 100 percent ready to host Eko NAFEST, we have left no stone unturned and I want to appreciate Gov. Sanwo-Olu for the support enjoyed so far.
“Mr Governor promised that he is going to make this year’s edition of NAFEST a story to be talked about by many, you can see that he has not only promised but he has backed his promise with lots of action.
“The governor has been able to rebrand the iconic National Stadium, it has become a new edifice everyone can be proud of,” she said.
The commissioner noted that all security agencies and agencies of government were working unanimously with the ministry in ensuring a successful outing.
She said even as the number of intending tourists for the festival keeps increasing daily, conducive accommodation would be provided for all revellers.
Akinbile-Yusuf, referring to a recent report, said Lagos was rated the 56th safest city in the world, assuring tourists of their safety.
She said the state had also designed creative programmes to feature during the 35th NAFEST, like the entertainment city and nightlife and concerts.
According to her, all stakeholders cutting across tourism, arts, culture, and hospitality would be fully involved in the festival as they look forward to making bountiful sales.
She noted that the various local government areas within the state would also be participating in the festival.
“Hosting this NAFEST is a thing of joy for me because I will get to see my brothers and sisters from across the country without traveling far and wide.
“As a state, we are excited because this is a huge opportunity for us to improve on our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and ensure the necessary data are generated for future reference,” she said.
Dominica Nwabufo
