By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
The Idoma Carnival packaged to showcase the rich culture of Idoma people has been described as one of the biggest street parties in the whole of West African sub region.
President, Idoma International Carnival, Edwin Ochai who made the disclosure during a speech at the three day event held at Otukpo, which featured some of the most popular artist including Tuface Idibia, Harry Song, Terry G, Duncan Mighty, Portable, Chris Morgan, Teddy King and James Agbo among others, who provided high level renditions of their popular tracks, expressed delight that since inception of the carnival which was packaged to showcase the rich and beautiful culture of Idoma people 10 years back, the festival has equally become a platform for social and economic development.
He said the carnival has equally created employment opportunities for the people as well as taken the people of Idoma nation away from all indices of underdevelopment.
Ochai recalled that the carnival which began in 2013 as Agila Social Economic Carnival was recently changed to Idoma International Carnival, expressing delight that the festival has not only gained national and international recognition, but has becomes one of the biggest street parties in West Africa.
He expressed satisfaction that the carnival has not only showcased the rich Idoma culture, their food, music, dance, fashion, art and pageantry, but has also exposed Idoma nation and its people to investment opportunities that has taken the entire Idoma land with its people away from all indices of underdevelopment.
“Since inception, Idoma carnival has not only become the melting point of Idoma culture, music, dance, fashion, art, pageantry and food” Ochai emphasized stressing that over the years the carnival has also empowered hundreds of women and youths through its economic scheme in addition to other business and economic opportunities it has attracted to Idoma land.
The president, Idoma International Carnival, Ochai, who said scores of youth are gainfully employed in the carnivals team and are making a living while calling for partnership assured people of its sustenance.