Lagos state govt launches maiden ‘Eko arts and crafts’ competition for Youth

The Lagos State Government has launched a new initiative focused on harnessing the creativity of the youth to honor their heritage and influence the future of the state’s cultural identity.

During a press conference on Thursday, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Esq., the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, announced the introduction of the Maiden Eko Arts and Crafts Competition. This event aims to give secondary and tertiary school students an opportunity to display their artistic talents.

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Marshal described the competition as “a golden opportunity” for young residents of Lagos to turn their interests into viable careers, emphasizing its significance. “Within our classrooms are young artists, sculptors, and creative thinkers whose gifts must not only be encouraged but also refined, celebrated, and projected to the world. This competition reflects the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, to position Lagos as the cultural and entertainment hub of Africa.”

She clarified that, in addition to identifying talent, the initiative will act as a platform for mentorship, exhibitions, and possible collaborations. It will also encourage entrepreneurship within the creative industry and enhance Lagos’s cultural identity through both contemporary and traditional forms of art.

Ayinde-Marshal emphasised that art goes beyond aesthetics, stressing its role as a tool for storytelling and heritage preservation. “By promoting arts and crafts, we are not only encouraging creativity but also safeguarding the cultural wealth of Lagos State,” she said.

She noted that registration for the competition will be available only to students from Lagos Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions. She expressed her belief that the Eko Arts and Crafts Competition will reveal untapped talents, motivate a new generation of creatives, and play a vital role in the cultural and economic growth of Lagos State.