Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the organizers of the recently concluded 2024 Abuja International Carnival to prove their commitment to culture and tourism by bringing more mega cultural and arts events to Port Harcourt.
His challenge came after the Rivers State delegation, led by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Israel Lebura Ngbuelo, visited Government House to present the accolades won at the carnival, where Rivers emerged as the overall winner.
The Rivers troupe clinched several awards, including ‘Best Carnival Float,’ ‘Best Carnival King,’ ‘Best Carnival Queen,’ ‘Best Performance,’ ‘Best Carnival Costume,’ and ‘Best in Indigenous Nigerian Fashion Parade,’ making them the clear victors of the 2024 Abuja International Carnival.
During the ceremony, Governor Fubara emphasized Rivers State’s reputation for peace, rich heritage, and exceptional hospitality, urging the carnival organizers to return with events that will further showcase the state’s positive image and foster economic growth.
He encouraged them to bring events that engage youth positively, adding that the state provides an ideal environment for hosting such cultural festivals.
“The truth is, this is one of the most peaceful states in the country. Despite what you hear in the media, Rivers is a peaceful, welcoming place with abundant infrastructure and beautiful public spaces,” Governor Fubara remarked.
“So, we want more of these events. Let’s create something educational, motivating, and economically beneficial for our people.”
In addition to promoting culture, Governor Fubara spoke about his upcoming plans to launch a talent hunt program aimed at discovering and nurturing youth talent in Rivers State.
He revealed that the state’s involvement in the Abuja carnival had already provided valuable opportunities for youth engagement, with many youths participating and receiving stipends for their efforts.
“We want to start a talent hunt program where gifted youths from our state can showcase their abilities. When they excel, we’ll help them reach greater heights,” Governor Fubara announced.
“This is just the beginning of something great.”
The Governor also expressed his confidence in the State’s culture and tourism ministry, urging Dr. Ngbuelo to think creatively about further initiatives that will elevate the state’s cultural heritage and its young talents.
Dr. Ngbuelo, in his remarks, credited the Governor’s support for the ministry’s success, while Mr. Kehinde Adegbite, CEO of the Abuja International Carnival, praised the Rivers team for their exceptional performances.
He also lauded Port Harcourt for its allure, expressing his desire to bring more events to the city.
“This has been a revelation,” Mr. Adegbite said. “Port Harcourt is even more captivating than many cities that host international events. We are committed to bringing more shows to this wonderful city.”
As a final note, Governor Fubara called on the media to shift away from negative portrayals of the state, encouraging them to highlight the numerous positive aspects of Rivers, including its thriving culture and peaceful environment.
The event concluded with the presentation of the awards, highlighting the continued success of the Rivers State delegation at the carnival.