Lagos State Government says it will lead Africa’s creative drive at the African Cultural Festival in the United States.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Arts, Culture and Tourism, Mr Idris Aregbe, said this in a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs of the ministry, Mrs Adeoti Sobowale, on Wednesday.
Aregbe said the state was proud to champion Africa’s creative wealth and innovation at the forthcoming festival scheduled to hold in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, U.S., from Sept. 19 to Sept. 21.
“Beyond the celebration, the festival creates real pathways for economic growth, opening doors for tourism investment, global partnerships and opportunities that will strengthen Lagos’ position as West Africa’s cultural and economic hub.
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“As Africa’s undisputed capital of creativity, Lagos will lead a powerful delegation of entrepreneurs, innovators and cultural ambassadors.
“From fashion and food to technology and trade, Lagos will proudly showcase its world-class heritage, industries and human capital,” he said.
According to him, ACF2025 is aimed at promoting and commercialising Africa’s cultural heritage.
He said the festival, with the theme, ‘Africa to the World: Culture, Creativity and Collaboration’, would bring together African and diaspora leaders, U. S. legislators, global creatives and entrepreneurs.
Also, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the festival was a platform to showcase Nigeria’s excellence.
Dabiri-Erewa said: “NIDCOM is excited to join forces with stakeholders to shape Nigeria’s narrative globally.
“ACF2025 provides a unique platform to showcase the brilliance of Nigerians at home and abroad while creating stronger cultural and economic ties with our diaspora.”
The festival director, Foluke Michael, recalled the global unveiling of ACF2025, earlier this year at the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg, where Prof. Wole Soyinka and art icon, Nike Okundaye, were honoured at the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate.
“That moment confirmed the festival’s international importance.
“ACF2025 is more than a festival. It is a celebration, an investment and a legacy for Africa and its diaspora,” she said.
