Nigeria is a nation richly endowed with diverse cultural and creative manifestations which are expressed through our unique festivals and carnivals. From the east to the west, north and south the people’s way of life and beliefs are brought to the limelight during festivals.

The significant role of festivals and carnivals in the various communities is not limited to the promotion of peace, unity and togetherness but is also key to the socio-economic empowerment of the value chain. With the influx of both local and international tourists during our festivals and carnivals, established and emerging businesses witness exponential returns during such events.

Cultural festivals and carnivals are important for the celebration of culture, heritage and creativity. Some of the elements of a cultural festival are the customs, myths, and oral traditions, cuisine, costumes, and music of the communities that participate in them. Cultural festivals, when held periodically, become agents for the preservation of cultural heritage and provide an opportunity for people from diverse cultures and backgrounds to meet, socialise, network and build relationships based on the experiences that they share.

In addition to the social benefits of festivals and carnivals, the economic impact of festivals and carnivals in the short and long term cannot be over emphasised. The influx of visitors means that the value chain is being economically empowered. In the long term, these festivals and carnivals boost tourism and attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the country.

In the Eastern region of Nigeria we have festivals such as Iri Ji (New yam festival celebrated across all Igbo States), Mmanwu festival (Enugu & Anambra) and Ikeji Festival (Abia and Imo), in the South South region we have, Izon Boat Regatta (Bayelsa State), Ukpe Festival (Edo State) and Calabar Carnival (Cross River State), in the South West we have Eyo Festival (Lagos State), Osun Osogbo festival (Osun State) and Ojude Oba Festival (Ogun State), in the Northern Regiion we have the Durbar (All northern states), Argungu Festival (Kebbi State) and Barakau Festival (Yobe State).