The third edition of the Nigeria Children Arts and Cultural Festival (NACAF) lit up Ikorodu with a vibrant display of cultural richness and creativity. Held at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), the event drew hundreds of students from primary and secondary schools in the area, uniting them in a celebration of the theme “Catch Them Young.”
This year’s NACAF featured a lively fun fair with activities such as a bouncy castle, face painting, children’s games, a fashion runway, carnival floats, open-air shows, symposiums, an inter-school march, cultural displays, a dance competition, and an art exhibition. Awards and certificates were presented to outstanding participants, adding to the excitement of the day.
Organised annually by the Oshodi Arts & Culture Gallery Foundation, a subsidiary of Oshodi Arts Gallery, NACAF coincides with the Children’s Day celebration. The event was graced by several notable guests, including the Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, the Obateru of Egbin Kingdom, HRM Oba Adeoriyomi Abdul-Akeem Oyebo, and representatives from various national agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Police Force, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC), Nigeria Security & Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Lagos State Fire Service.
In her keynote address, Minister Lola Ade-John emphasised the importance of nurturing the potential of young people. She highlighted that the theme “Catch Them Young” underscores the need for early intervention and investment in children’s development. She noted, “This convergence of creativity and commemoration provides us with a unique platform to celebrate the ingenuity, talent, and boundless potential inherent in every child.” She stressed the importance of arts, culture, and education in shaping the character, values, and aspirations of the youth.
The Minister also called for a collective commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and well-being, advocating for policies that promote their welfare and protect them from harm. She encouraged the students to unleash their creativity, embrace diversity, and dream big. “Therefore, as we celebrate today’s festivities, let us also reaffirm our collective commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child. Let us advocate for policies and initiatives that promote their welfare, enhance their access to quality education, healthcare, and social support systems, and protect them from all forms of harm and injustice.”
