The Lagos State Government has introduced the inaugural edition of the Eko Arts and Crafts Competition, targeted at secondary school and tertiary institution students.
The initiative is designed to unlock the creative potential of young people while celebrating and preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
Announcing the programme in Lagos on Thursday, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ms. Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, described it as a key intervention under the entertainment and tourism pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
Speaking at a press conference in Ikeja, she explained that the contest aims to identify, nurture, and promote artistic talents across the state.
She added that the platform would encourage entrepreneurship in the creative industry, strengthen cultural pride, and equip participants with relevant skills for sustainable development.
“Inside our classrooms are budding artists, sculptors, and innovators whose creativity deserves to be supported and showcased globally. This competition provides the stage for them to share their imagination, inspire others, and contribute to cultural preservation,” Ayinde-Marshal said.
She revealed that the registration portal had gone live and would serve as the official channel for eligible students to submit their entries.
Participation, she noted, would be restricted to students from Lagos-based schools and institutions.
Ayinde-Marshal encouraged parents, teachers, and school administrators to support their students in seizing what she called a “rare opportunity” to gain exposure.
She noted that winners of the competition would benefit from mentorship opportunities, exhibitions, and partnerships within the creative industry.
The governor’s aide emphasized that the competition reflects Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to empowering young people, boosting tourism, and promoting the creative economy.