The Federal Government has announced a $618 million investment in the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) project aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s creative industry, including the carnival sector.

This was announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday during a meeting with a delegation of the Abuja International Carnival at the Presidential Villa.

Shettima also revealed that the government was taking strategic steps to tap the lucrative global carnival market, currently estimated to be worth $5 billion.

He explained that “The value of the global carnival market is estimated at five billion dollars. This highlights its potential to help us with our economic growth agenda.

This initiative is designed to provide vital support to various sectors of the digital and creative industries, specifically targeting the improvement and growth of the carnival sector.

When discussing the importance of carnivals, Shettima noted: “Beyond promoting our rich cultural heritage, it is a driver of national unity and cohesion. We also need to look at the potential for economic value addition. This perspective positions the carnival industry not just as an event but as an important contributor to the country’s socio-economic landscape.

Cultural engagement

The Vice President assured the delegation of the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to supporting youth businesses in the creative sector.

• He referred to the successes of global carnivals, notably that of Rio de Janeiro, which attracts around 200 million visitors each year, demonstrating the immense potential for economic growth that such events can generate.
• Shettima also recognized the Calabar Carnival, stating that it has become an essential part of the cultural heritage of the Efik/Ibibio people, further stressing the importance of the Carnival festivities in promoting local traditions and promoting the spirit community.

“The Abuja Carnival used to be an even bigger event. I urge you to accelerate all efforts to organize this event,” he charged the Abuja International Carnival delegation to encourage proactive measures to reinvigorate the importance of the carnival.

• Kehinde Adegbite, Managing Director of the Abuja International Carnival, expressed gratitude for the support of the Vice President. He shared his intention to collaborate with the Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy to revitalize the carnival.

“We met with the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who is driven by creativity and agreed that we partner with the ministry for the project. Carnival brings unity, empowers young people and helps discover talents,” Adegbite said:

What you need to know

The organizers of the Idoma International Carnival have officially announced the theme and dates for the 2024 edition of this vibrant fiesta. The event, titled “The Rhythm of Our Heritage”, is scheduled to take place from December 23 to 26, 2024 in Otukpo, Benue State. This year’s carnival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the rich cultural tapestry and heritage of the Idoma people.

• The Idoma International Carnival, often considered the biggest street party in northern Nigeria, is in its twelfth edition. It has become a beacon of cultural pride and unity.
• It attracts participants and participants from all over Nigeria and around the world, highlighting the importance of Idoma culture.

In a related event, the Ogbomoso Rocks Carnivalscheduled for December 19-24 this year. Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso, expressed confidence that the carnival would not only captivate locals but also attract culture enthusiasts from across the country.

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