The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to providing an enabling environment that will uncover and nurture hidden talents among youths at all levels of education across the state. This, it said, is part of ongoing efforts to build on the remarkable success recorded in the education sector in recent years.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, gave the assurance at the grand finale of the maiden edition of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition for Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
She explained that the competition was designed to celebrate innovation and creativity while promoting healthy rivalry among students through a transparent and rigorous selection process.
Ayinde-Marshal noted that arts and crafts play a vital role in preserving cultural identity, adding that the top nine participants across all categories were rewarded with scholarships to further their education.
According to her, this maiden edition serves as a foundation for greater initiatives in the near future aimed at promoting Lagos’s cultural identity and realizing the collective dream of a greater Lagos.
The governor’s aide further assured that all tourism potentials in the state would be harnessed for the socio-economic development of Lagos.
On his part, the Chairman of the House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Solomon Sanu Bonu, congratulated the students and encouraged them to remain focused, assuring them that they are on the right path.
He emphasized that creative arts represent a viable sector capable of boosting the state’s economy and improving the welfare of residents. The lawmaker also revealed that starting next year, budgetary allocations will be provided to support students with exceptional talents, while urging them to prioritize their education.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Tertiary Education, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mr. Waheed Kasali, explained that the initiative was part of efforts to develop the minds of students and prepare them for future challenges.
Kasali added that equipping students with critical skills and creative abilities to contribute meaningfully to their communities aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E Plus Agenda.
He emphasized that the 21st century is centered on critical thinking and problem-solving—values that the initiative seeks to instill in students.
The event showcased exceptional creativity and innovation from students across Lagos metropolis.
Winners (Tertiary Institutions):
• Goodness Popoola – Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin
• Azeez Aderibigbe – Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu
• Samuel Aina – Lagos State University of Education, Ijanikin
Senior Secondary School Category:
• Alexis Aghenta – Scquare College, Lekki
• Usa Pascal – Birel Avenue Senior High School, Yaba
• Maryam Owolewa – Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu
Junior Secondary School Category:
• Israel Adedoyin – Government Junior Grammar School, Ikorodu
• Kolawole Jubril – Ikorodu Junior Grammar School, Ikorodu
• Desmond Awatefe – Tobvic College, Badagry
