The annual Ebira Carnival has received renewed institutional backing as the Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, paid tribute to the growing relevance the cultural showcase as a key economic driver ahead of its 15th edition.

Hon. Isah spoke during an interactive session with the carnival’s organisers led its National Coordinator, Mr. Suberu Onimisi where he pledged support for expanding the reach and visibility of the event.

He stressed that stronger collaboration among cultural stakeholders, the private sector and communities would help the carnival achieve sustainability and deeper relevance among the people while reducing over-reliance on government support.

He described the festival as a strategic platform for the preservation of the heritage of the Ebira people while promoting social cohesion and tourism in the state.

Earlier, the National Coordinator of Ebira Carnival, Suberu Onimisi, said the festival was conceived fifteen years ago to revive Ebira cultural practices that were facing gradual decline.

He noted that the carnival has consistently showcased indigenous food, attire and traditional musical instruments among others, helping to project Ebira identity while attracting visitors from within and outside the country.

Onimisi explained that this year’s programme will include a picnic on December 29, a medical outreach on December 30, and the grand carnival which holds on December 31.

He added that new features such as an Ebira Food Festival will be introduced, while the medical outreach will provide free health screenings, basic medications and health education to residents.

Onimisi noted that effective collaboration with security agencieshas ensured peaceful celebrations in past editions.

He assured that adequate security arrangements are already in place for this year’s events, while calling for increased publicity and institutional backing to unlock the full potential of the Ebira Carnival as a unifying cultural asset for the people of Kogi State.