The Lagos State government, Chairman Ibeju-Lekki L.G.A Kabiasi Onibeju, Obas in Council, Eze Indigbo of Ibeju-Lekki, High Chiefs, Distinguish Ladies and Gentlemen
I begin this speech with Absolut Thanksgiving and glory to almighty God
Castledown Arts Center, is an organization endorsed and registered with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture
The Center in one of her primary assignments is the organizers of the great festival “EKO NEW YAM FESTIVAL” an event celebrated in the heart of Ibeju-Lekk Lagos State, Nigeria
We desire to keep developing and promoting Domestic Tourism potential in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. In furtherance of our most popular objective of encouraging peaceful coexistence among all ethnic and religious groups in Lagos state through Art, Culture, Agro – initiatives, Sport, Music, and Tourism.
ACHIEVEMENTS
The EKO NEW YAM FESTIVAL since inception 15 years ago has provided a platform for cultural heritage and Renewal of Kinship Alliances among the ethnic Nationalities irrespective of their political or religious affiliation, Grassroots Empowerment Initiatives, Children activities, Trade, Beauty Pageant, Traditional Wrestling including Grassroots Football Tournaments.
The festival also marks the end of one agricultural season with a harvest to express gratitude and thanksgiving to God using Yam, a cash crop planted and eating trough out Nigeria as a tool for national unity
CHALLENGES
Sponsorship has been a focal point for this grate festival, the convener and the organizing council, has to source for founds to keep the essence of the festival every year,
Special thanks to the Ibeju-lekki L.G.A, international breweries, Airtel and Glow, and our esteemed clients and vendors who have assisted us in past editions
The festival attracts over 5000 tourist and visitors, creating an atmosphere for business to business expo, business to customer transaction, love relationship and networking, all happened on the festival ground every year, about 10 of the grassroots football tournament are now international players, this is an opportunity for companies, merchants, tourism enthusiast to key into, while sponsoring and participating in our programs and event.
PROSPECT
In our quest to promote peaceful coexistence in Nigeria, CASTLEDOWN ARTS CENTER is working on all our programs and events towards meeting up with the UNESCO’s requirement for endorsement and recognition.
I appreciate all of our direct and indirect donor, Partners and contributors, by His Grace, all your effort will not be in vain.
ONE LOVE AND LET’S CONTINUE THE PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE IN NIGERIA AND THE WORLD
OZO CHIEDU EDEZUNA.
