The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, (FMACTCE), in partnership with Afikpo Carnival and Resorts Ltd (AC&R) and the Humanitarian Hub for Community Impact Affinity (CIA) today officially flagged – off the 2026 Afikpo International Carnival in Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa while commending this loud able initiative, said Carnival is a way of presenting our heritage and project to the world, adding that, it is a platform for unity, tourism and economic growth.
The Minister speaking during her keynote address, mentioned that, carnival is a reflection of our identity. It is also the story of our past, celebration of our present and it inspires the future, she added.
The Minister who was represented by her Special Adviser, Mr Doyin Diya, emphasized that, Cultural heritage is one of the greatest assets we have as a nation, adding that, the Afikpo International Carnival is not only for Eastern Nigeria but for Nigeria as a whole.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr. Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim while delivering his speech said, the carnival is more than a celebration of culture, adding that, it is a platform that showcases our unique identity, strengthen national unity, promotes tourism, employers our creative talents and stimulates economic growth within communities.
As we continue to diversifies our economy, cultural festival such as this has become vital drives of sustainable development, job creation and international cultural exchange, he added.
The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by Blessing Onwughalu, an Assistant Director in the Ministry assured that the Ministry is committed to supporting the initiative that project Nigeria to the world and create opportunities for our artists, performance, entrepreneurs and local businesses.
While congratulating the organizers and the good people of Afikpo, he encouraged every stakeholders, government agencies, private sector, development partners, community leaders and media to continue working together to the success of this important event.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, SDG Amb.Wilson Babanjida Agboti, who is also the Chief Convener for the Afikpo International Carnival and Chairman/CEO, Afikpo Carnival and Resorts Ltd, emphasized that, the Afikpo Carnival will promote the economic development of the Eastern region and thereby generates revenue to the cultural and tourism sector of Nigeria mostly now that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present Administration hinges more on revenue generation and sustainable development.
He promised that the carnival which is slated to hold by December 2026 will be the first of its kind because it is the first International Carnival in the Eastern region, adding that, it will be globally recognized.
Amadi Uloma Nneka, anipr
Head (Press and PR)
July 29, 2026
