The Lagos State government, in collaboration with Culturella Africa, will host the 2024 Culturella Festival to showcase its rich cultural heritage and foster global cross-cultural dialogue.
Announced by Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, this year’s festival promises to elevate the state’s commitment to cultural and economic development. The announcement, made during a recent press conference, underscores the Lagos State government’s strategic partnership with Culturella Africa to enhance youth engagement through investments in creative sectors and vocational training.
Aregbe, represented by Mrs. Olufunke Adu, emphasized the importance of a positive national image on social media, urging Nigerians, particularly the youth, to counteract negative stereotypes about Africa. “The Culturella Festival aims to unite Africans globally and celebrate our diverse traditions, cultural expressions, and artisanal craftsmanship,” Aregbe noted.
He also praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for its efforts to empower youth through vocational schools in entertainment, which align with the broader objective of projecting a favorable image of Nigeria internationally.
Dolamu Badejo, the newly appointed group MD/CEO of Culturella Africa, elaborated on the festival’s mission to use culture and arts as tools for enhancing international relations a s well as driving economic growth.
Badejo stressed that the 2024 festival will function as a research center dedicated to promoting positive African narratives. She also called on media, government agencies, and stakeholders to collaborate in portraying Africa’s strengths and opportunities.
“Our vision is to reshape Africa’s image by highlighting our stories from past to future,” Badejo said.
John Fadejola, Head of Brands at Tantacom Experiential Projects Ltd., announced that the 18th Culturella Arts and Culture Festival will take place from December 6 to 8. The festival will include a fashion soirée showcasing African fabrics and a Culturati African Personalities event in October to honour individuals who have significantly contributed to the continent’s growth.
