LASG UNVEILS MAIDEN EKO ARTS, CRAFTS COMPETITION FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS, TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS
The Lagos State Government has officially launched the maiden edition of the Eko Arts and Crafts Competition for secondary schools and tertiary institutions across the State, as part of its efforts to promote creativity, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, 11th September, 2025, at Alausa, the Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Esq., said the competition is a strategic initiative under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, specifically under the pillar of Entertainment and Tourism.
According to her, the competition is designed to discover, nurture, and showcase artistic talents among young people in Lagos while also creating a platform for innovation and career development in the creative sector.
“Art is more than just aesthetics. It is storytelling, heritage preservation, and a mirror of society. Through this competition, our young people will have the opportunity to express their thoughts, aspirations, and ideas while also safeguarding the cultural wealth of Lagos State,” Ayinde-Marshal said.
She added that the initiative will foster creativity, encourage entrepreneurship, promote cultural heritage, and equip students with skills that can support sustainable economic growth.
The Senior Special Assistant further announced the official launch of the competition’s registration portal at https://ekoschoolsartsandcrafts.com, emphasising that participation is strictly open to students in Lagos secondary schools and tertiary institutions.
While appreciating Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support for the creative industry, Ayinde-Marshal urged school administrators, parents, teachers, and guardians to encourage students to take part in the competition.
She also called on the media to give the initiative wide publicity, revealing that the winners of the competition will gain access to mentorship, exhibitions, and possible partnerships within the creative sector.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Taoreed Dosunmu, describes it as a timely and strategic effort in harnessing the creative potential of Lagos youths.
Mr. Bajulaiye emphasised that the competition aligns with the vision of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to position Lagos as the cultural and creative hub of Africa.
He noted that beyond its entertainment value, the competition will help prepare students for future opportunities in the global creative economy.
“This initiative is not just about celebrating talent. It is about building a strong pipeline of creative thinkers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will shape the future of our State and our nation. By encouraging young people to channel their creativity into productive ventures, we are laying a foundation for sustainable development,” Bajulaiye said.
He further assured that the Ministry will continue to provide platforms that showcase the ingenuity of Lagosians, while also strengthening partnerships with stakeholders in the arts and creative industries.
He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to nurturing young talents and sustaining initiatives that promote cultural heritage, creat
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