By Victoria Ojugbana

Copyright independent

Determined to discover, nurture, and showcase the immense talents that exist in students across Lagos, the state government has unveiled the maiden edition of the Eko Arts and Crafts Competition for Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions in Lagos State.

Special Assistant to the state Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Damilola Ayinde Marshal, during a press conference on the maiden edition of the Eko Arts and Craft Competition for Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions in Lagos State, at Alausa, Ikeja, on Thursday, said that classroom learning provides the foundation for intellectual growth, hence “there is also the need to create platforms where creativity can flourish, where hidden skills can be brought to light, and where passion can be transformed into productive careers. This is what this competition seeks to achieve.”

She said that the “initiative will serve as a platform to foster creativity among young people; encourage entrepreneurship in the creative sector; promote cultural heritage through modern and traditional artistic expressions; and develop genuine skills that will support sustainable economic growth and innovation in the state.”

Marshal commended the state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for demonstrating his unwavering commitment to harnessing creativity, empowering young people, and positioning Lagos as the cultural and entertainment hub of Africa.

She added that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s “vision continues to drive our collective effort to position Lagos as the creative heartbeat of Nigeria and Africa.”

She said: “This Eko Arts and Crafts Competition is one of the strategic interventions that will bring this vision to life.

“This competition has been carefully designed to discover, nurture, and showcase the immense talent that exists in our secondary schools and tertiary institutions across Lagos.”

Marshal, who stated that the event also marked the official launch of the registration portal for the Eko Arts and Crafts Competition, added: “This portal will serve as the primary platform for eligible participants to register and submit their entries.”

She emphasized that participation is strictly open to students of secondary schools and tertiary institutions in Lagos State, and encouraged school administrators, parents, teachers, and guardians to motivate their wards and students to take advantage of this golden opportunity.

“The competition promises not only recognition but also life-changing opportunities for winners, as they will be exposed to mentorship, exhibitions, and possible partnerships that will enable them to thrive in the creative industry,” Marshal added.