PHOTOS: IKOSI-ISHERI KETU MAGODO MARKS 2024 CULTURAL CARNIVAL IN STYLE AS LAGOS FIRST LADY, OTHER DIGNITARIES GRACE EVENT
Read Time:5 Minute, 49 Second
By: Balogun Munirat
The Ikosi-Isheri Ketu Magodo 2024 cultural festival came alive at CMD event centre, Magodo, Lagos, as residents and dignitaries graced the annual carnival aimed towards promoting unity and peace among cultures, people and communities.
The two-day jaw dropping carnival, tagged “Our Heritage, Our Pride,” was celebrated on Saturday, 26th, and Sunday, 27th of October, 2024.
Showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Lagos State with mesmerizing performances and delicious cuisine, this year’s carnival was particularly special, with Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, kickstarting the ceremony on Saturday as the “Face of The Carnival’.
Speaking at the event, the ‘Face of The Carnival’, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, reiterated on her passion for cultural preservation and community empowerment.
She emphasized on the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
The First Lady, through the “Don’t Zero Those Children” program, has been championing the cause of youth empowerment and education. The carnival provided a platform to showcase the impact of this initiative with several youth-led performances and exhibitions.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu said, “I’m committed to ensuring our children have access to quality education and opportunities. Our heritage is their future.
“I’m thrilled to see our community come together to celebrate our rich culture. It is essential we pass on our heritage to the next generation,” she added.
Earlier in her address, the mayoress of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, stated that “Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s involvement in the carnival extended beyond her ceremonial role; her presence has brought a new level of excitement and engagement to the carnival. Her commitment to our community is truly inspiring.”
The event saw the community troop out in a heartwarming display of unity.
With a keen focus on inclusivity, Princess Samiat expertly rallied residents of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, bridging gaps and fostering a sense of belonging among the diverse population.
The streets of Ikosi-Isheri were transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors as the Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa communities came together in a stunning display of cultural unity.
Residents from diverse ethnic backgrounds proudly donned their traditional attire, showcasing vibrant fabrics and intricate designs that reflected their rich heritage.
Princess Samiat underscored the annual cultural carnival’s profound purpose, which is “fostering unity and harmony among the diverse communities of Ikosi-Isheri and Ketu Magodo.”
According to her, “the joyous celebration serves as a powerful platform for the entire community to come together, speak with one voice, and revel in the beauty of their shared heritage.”
Speaking to journalists in an interview, the Mayoress said, “Today is fantastic; we are celebrating our rich culture, and it’s a testament to the greatness of our community. Indeed, we are great in Ikosi-Isheri.”
“Ikosi Isheri/Ketu Magodo Carnival is more than just a celebration; it’s a platform for community unity and empowerment,” she added.
The Mayoress also extended her appreciation to the attendees, dignitaries, and guests who had gathered to celebrate the carnival.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of love and support.
“This carnival is a celebration of our unity and heritage, and I’m thrilled to share it with all of you.”
Also at the event, the SATO dancers and the Igbo Troupe delivered mesmerizing performances, blending traditional steps with modern flair.
The energetic dancers, adorned in vibrant costumes, electrified the crowd with their rhythmic movements.
Renowned musicians, including Sule Alao Malaika, Qdot, Candy Bleaks, Ayo Maff and other upcoming artists, took the center stage, treating the audience to an unforgettable musical experience.
The Executive Chairman of the Mainland Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Omolola Rashidat Essien, expressed her joy over the beautiful setting of the Ikosi Isheri carnival and celebrated the Chairman and her constituents for such a cultural display.
She said in her speech that she was attending the carnival for the first time with a very remarkable experience.
She pledged so well to repeat the same cultural carnival display and promotion in her local government area.
Also present at the event were actors and actresses of the Nigerian movie industry, such as Shola Kosoko, Okele, Baba tee and others.
The Lagos State University Faculty of Arts presented a thought-provoking play, exploring themes of unity and cultural identity. The talented actors brought the story to life, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
On his part, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, while praising the coming together of people from different cultures, emphasized the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
“As we celebrate our diversity, let this sense of unity transcend this occasion.
“Let us foster love, friendship, and peaceful coexistence, for it is in an atmosphere of harmony that our leaders can effectively work towards improving the lives of our people.
Ojelabi went further: “The chairperson’s efforts are a clever way of showcasing our talents and potential. We recognize the importance of empowering our youth and will continue to support initiatives that promote their growth and development.
Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, Lagos APC Women Leader, presented an award to the Mayoress, praising her outstanding contributions to the community.
“The Mayoress has been a shining example of leadership, driving infrastructural growth and empowering women.
“Her dedication to our party, APC, and her unwavering commitment to boosting our image through ‘women supporting women’ initiatives have not gone unnoticed,” she said.
Okoya-Thomas added that the Mayoress’s efforts have made women proud, earning her the esteemed “Amazon Peer” award on behalf of Lagos women in government. This recognition is a testament to the Mayoress’s tireless work in promoting gender equality and inclusive governance.
She said that her leadership has been consistently recognized, including at the graduation ceremony for the 2023/2024 Lagos State Skills Acquisition centres, where she was commended for her efforts in promoting women’s empowerment.
The carnival’s inclusive atmosphere was evident, with attendees from diverse backgrounds and age groups.
“This carnival brings us together, reminding us of our shared heritage,” said resident and attendee, Mrs. Adeyemo. “I’m proud to be part of this community.”
Tons of prizes were also won by individuals during the raffle draw at the cultural carnival.
The member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Saheed, congratulated the winners of the carnival’s raffle draw prizes and thereby charged others to be fully involved next time to be a lucky winner in the process.
The Ikosi Isheri/Ketu Magodo cultural carnival 2024 was a resounding success, showcasing the community’s commitment to cultural preservation and unity.
Also present at the event are Oba Ketu, HRM Oba Isiaka Adio Balogun Oyero, Ilufemiloye 1; Chairman of Magodo Residency, Engr. Sheriff Daramola; Right Honorable Tola Banjo; HRM Oba Rilwan Oluwalambe Taiwo, Oba of Ojokoro Land; Folake Kayode, Vice-chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA; Hon. Adeola Jokomba, Secretary, APC Lagos State; Former speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Surajudeen Ishola Adekunbi; Iyaloja of Ikosi, Alhaja Iyabo Ahmed; and other notable dignitaries.
Happy
50 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
50 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
1
0