Lagos concludes 2026 Children’s Summer Cultural Fiesta with grand finale

Events-Festivals

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture (LSCAC) has concluded its 2026 Children’s Summer Cultural Fiesta with a colourful grand finale, ending a week-long programme aimed at immersing children in the richness of Lagos and Nigerian cultural heritage while nurturing their creativity, confidence and artistic talents.

The event, held at the LSCAC Theatre Hall from August 13 to August 20, 2026, was themed “Our Culture, Our Identity.”

The programme brought together children for a week of cultural learning, creative expression and entertainment, with participants receiving practical training in arts and crafts, textiles, Yoruba language, dance, music, drama and storytelling.

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The activities provided participants with opportunities to connect with their cultural roots while discovering and developing their individual talents.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, the Director/CEO of LSCAC, Mr Idowu Johnson, described the theme of the programme as timely and significant.

Johnson emphasised that culture remains central to the identity of a people, noting that introducing children to their heritage is one of the most effective ways of preserving traditions for future generations.

Mrs Oyekan-Ismaila commended the facilitators and organisers for providing a platform where children could learn, create and express themselves through indigenous cultural activities.

She noted that beyond acquiring practical skills, participants also developed greater confidence, creativity and a deeper appreciation of their cultural identity.

In his welcome address, Johnson received the children, parents, guardians and other guests, stressing the importance of helping young people understand their identity and heritage.

According to him, culture goes beyond clothing, music and festivals, encompassing language, values, traditions and creativity — elements that collectively shape a people’s identity and sense of belonging.

He reiterated the commitment of the Lagos State Government to supporting initiatives that nurture creativity, develop skills and create opportunities for young people within the cultural and creative industries.

Johnson encouraged the children to take pride in their heritage, embrace their indigenous languages and traditions, and deploy creativity and innovation to promote the rich cultural identity of Lagos State.

The grand finale featured drama, dance, music and other cultural performances by the children, showcasing the knowledge and skills acquired during the Fiesta.

Parents and guardians expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the initiative as impactful and valuable, while calling for the programme to be sustained and expanded to accommodate more children in future editions.

Awards were also presented to outstanding participants, highlighting the importance of providing platforms that enable young people to explore their cultural heritage while developing their creative potential.

The 2026 Children’s Summer Cultural Fiesta ended on a high note, with participants leaving the programme inspired, more knowledgeable and more deeply connected to their cultural roots.

The Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural education and creativity among young people as part of efforts to raise a generation capable of preserving, promoting and transforming the rich cultural heritage of Lagos State.