With preparations in top gear to celebrate the rich and diverse heritage of Kogi State, the state is set to host the Kogi International Carnival (KIC) from December 1 to 7, 2024, with the theme ‘Come, Experience, Explore, and Invest in the Confluence State: Celebrating Unity, Promoting Tourism, and Empowering Local Communities’,
The KIC 2034 is to rally Nigerians and the global community to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the various ethnic groups within the state.
The carnival is to showcase the state’s cultural potentialities with a view of attracting local and international investors to explore the vast investment opportunities in the confluence state.
The goal is to encourage investors to contribute capital to grow the state’s economy and, by extension, Nigeria.
Billed to take place simultaneously across four locations in the state: Lokoja, Kabba, Okene, and Ayingba. It will feature the state’s cultural diversity on a global stage, showcasing music, dance, fashion, cuisine, and more from the different ethnic groups that inhabit this North Central region.
“The carnival is designed to coincide with the Christmas festive season and will help to keep Kogi State in the hearts of tourists and visitors from around the world,” he said.
The event, which is citizen-driven, has garnered endorsement from prominent figures in Kogi State across various sectors, including traditional rulers. Notably, Mr Steve Babaeko, a leading Marketing Communications practitioner and President of the Nigeria chapter of the International Advertising Association (IAA) has expressed his commitment to support the carnival in any way possible.
Speaking on the carnival, Prince Philip Orebiyi, leader of the Kogi International Carnival (KIC) 2024 project, highlighted the event’s significance of the carnival being more than just a celebration.
According to Orebiyi “It fosters cultural exchange, community bonding, and global recognition of Kogi State’s unique offerings.
“Visitors will have a unique experience that showcases our state’s beauty, talent, and investment potential. We invite everyone to join us for this unforgettable experience.”
Orebiyi noted that the KIC will feature spectacular performances by local and international artists, cultural exhibitions, traditional dance displays, food festivals featuring local and international cuisine, fashion shows showcasing Nigerian and African designs, as well as workshops and masterclasses on art, music, and entrepreneurship.
Also speaking, Babaeko, a Marketing Communications expert noted that the carnival, emphasizing Kogi State’s historical significance and its vast potential.
He called on Kogites, both at home and abroad, to support the initiative to position Kogi State as a prime destination for tourism, cultural heritage, and a gateway to the Federal Capital Territory.
Babaeko stated, “Kogi is a unique state, endowed with abundant natural resources and a favorable geographical location; from Lokoja to Kabba, Okene to Ida, and down to Obajana, many hidden treasures are waiting to be explored.
“This international carnival will help attract attention to Kogi State as a land of opportunities. For instance, Kogi has historically been the food basket of Nigeria, and our farmers can easily transport their produce to the Federal Capital Territory.”
He added, “With the resources abound in Kogi State, the Federal Government need not look far for partners, especially during this period when Nigeria faces significant food security challenges, with nearly 25 million people at risk of hunger due to climate change, inflation, and rising food prices.”
Expect renowned musicians, performers, international cultural ambassadors, and much more at this exceptional event.
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