Obi Asika: Nafest 2024 Aims to Showcase Nigeria’s ‘Unity in Diversity’ Through Art and Culture

Obi Asika, the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), recently discussed the evolution of 36th edition of Nigeria’s National Festival of Arts and Culture (Nafest), taking place in Abuja.

Asika in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Friday emphasised the festival’s role in showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity, noting that Nigeria often speaks of “unity in diversity.”

He also stated that Abuja was selected solely for its transformation into a vibrant cultural hub, not just a political center.

“We picked Abuja because abuja has come alive, it’s not just a political headquarter it’s also a cultural city,a city of art.”

Asika also pointed out that the goal is to turn Abuja into a key destination for art lovers, and tourists alike.

“Our agenda is as well as to make everywhere in Nigeria a destination and to make Abuja a destination is to make art lovers, culture lovers, history lovers etc to come into Abuja and enjoy.”

“We are trying to create a product for television. we went out there and I have spent 4/5 months with one of the biggest advertising agencies in Nigeria pushing this brand most specifically.” he said, noting the festival’s lack of prior exposure despite its long-standing presence within government circles.

“I am working with the press,social media we are changing demographics,some of the things we’ve done for example the dancing,cooking,singing and drama competitions and that’s how it’s been presented.”

He further noted some changes deer to this years festival celebration.

He said ”I reformatted it. We have the jollof wars, that’s the cooking competition so between this states let’s find out who’s the best.”

He pointed out that this Nafest’s arts season events include art exhibitions at eight galleries in Abuja hosting with a theme of “Connected Culture.”

Asika also added that they haven’t really seen funding this year,but they have great team, great commitment.

The official theme song, “I Believe” will be released on November 24th as part of Nafest’s efforts to raise awareness and attract more engagement.

Reflecting on his 30-year tenure in the sector, Asika acknowledged that many Nigerians, including those within the public sector, remain unaware of the festival’s significance.

He attributed this to the challenges of public sector initiatives, failing to maintain visibility over time.

“One of the issues I think we have a lot of times with public sector project is they can get lost from the view of the public. it’s a public sector thing.”

Erizia Rubyjeana

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