The Department of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy is in advanced negotiations with Yankee Entertainment to launch the Abuja International Carnival in November 2024. On Thursday, both parties convened in Abuja to finalize collaboration details and discuss plans for the carnival.
During the meeting, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Minister, stated that the Abuja International Carnival is a top priority for the Department. She expressed confidence in the project, highlighting its alignment with the Department’s objectives of promoting cultural diversity and supporting the creative economy.” The Abuja International Carnival aims to enhance cultural tourism and elevate Nigeria’s international reputation. The carnival will also promote national unity, boost international cultural exchange, and generate economic opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs.”It is an event that we must showcase to position the country at the forefront of cultural promotion. We recognized the need to establish something sustainable that can attract not only investments but also tourism to our country.
The previous administration initiated the Abuja Carnival. Today, we aim to continue and ensure its long-term appeal and sustainability, so I am delighted to explore how we can finalize collaboration details and discuss plans for the carnival”.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Yankee Entertainment, Kehinde Adegbite, also known as Mallam Yankee, presented the vision and objectives of the carnival, emphasizing its potential to exhibit Nigerian culture and creativity to a global audience.
Mallam Yankee informed the Minister that his organization has organized previous carnivals, including the Ochacho Carnival, Ibeju Lekki Carnival, and Ojodu Carnival, among others, and assured that the Abuja International Carnival will be the largest to date. The Abuja Carnival will be an International Carnival, as we intend to attract individuals from all corners of the world, particularly those with a passion for culture and arts. We aspire to surpass the Calabar Carnival in scale and assure you that we will make a significant impact”. In her closing statements, the Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, Mrs. Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, expressed gratitude to the Minister for her enthusiasm and commitment to fostering the sector.” We value your dedication and zeal for the sector.
The last Abuja Carnival took place in 2016, and funding was a challenge. We are now prepared to roll out the event in 2024, as time is of the essence, considering our prolonged absence.”We aim to feature renowned artists, using this platform to showcase the culture and creative content of our people, as well as the Department’s efforts in the Art, Culture, and the creative economy”.
The carnival will encompass a variety of activities, including street performances, musical concerts, boat regatta, Durbar, children’s Fiesta, and exhibitions. The Abuja International Carnival holds a significant place in the Nigerian cultural calendar, with the Culture Ministry and Yankee Entertainment fully dedicated to ensuring its success. The carnival is scheduled to take place in Abuja in November.
