By Kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting the creative economy as it celebrated outstanding students at the grand finale and prize presentation ceremony of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition 2.
The event, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja, on Tuesday, featured creative works from students across Lagos State, showcasing the ingenuity, cultural awareness and artistic abilities of young Lagosians.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, described the competition as a major platform for discovering and developing the next generation of creative talents.
She said the initiative was founded on the belief that creativity begins in the classroom and that every child deserves an opportunity to express talent, tell stories and contribute meaningfully to society through art.
According to her, the overwhelming response to the second edition of the competition demonstrated the growing interest and potential among young creatives in the state.
She disclosed that a total of 489 participants registered for the competition, while 132 submitted entries from schools across the five divisions of Lagos State and some tertiary institutions.
The competition featured categories including painting, drawing, sculpture, beadwork, textile design, leatherwork, digital art and upcycling.
Oyekan-Ismaila noted that the entries reflected originality, creativity and a deep understanding of the theme of the competition, “This Is Lagos,” which challenged participants to interpret the identity, heritage, resilience, innovation and diversity of the state through art.
“The artworks on display beautifully capture the essence of Lagos, its rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to sustainability,” she said.
The Permanent Secretary congratulated all participants, describing them as winners for demonstrating courage, creativity and dedication.
She also commended the panel of judges for ensuring a transparent and credible evaluation process, while appreciating school administrators, teachers, parents, partners and sponsors for supporting the development of young talents.
She encouraged the students to continue improving their skills, stressing that the creative industry had become a major driver of economic growth, employment opportunities and global recognition.
“The creative industry is no longer a secondary option; it is a major driver of economic growth, innovation, employment and global recognition,” she said.
Oyekan-Ismaila specially acknowledged the initiator of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition, former Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Esq., for creating a platform that provides opportunities for young artists across the state.
She added that the Lagos State Government would continue to support arts education, skills development, mentorship programmes and initiatives that empower young people to thrive in the creative sector.
The competition, which attracted participation from secondary schools and tertiary institutions, ended with the presentation of prizes to outstanding students whose artworks best represented creativity, innovation and the spirit of Lagos.
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