Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria – Ekiti State recently hosted the inaugural World Iyan Carnival, a vibrant celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage and a showcase of its culinary traditions.
Iyan, a pounded yam dish, is a staple food in Ekiti and a significant part of the local culture. The carnival, themed “Agrotourism: A New Frontier For Sustainable Tourism And Economic Development,” aimed to promote Ekiti’s cultural identity and boost the state’s economy through tourism.
The event featured a diverse range of activities, including cultural displays, yam presentations, traditional music and dance performances, and a “Omoge Iyan” (Miss Pounded Yam) pageant. 
Key Initiatives Unveiled
The carnival also served as a platform to launch several key initiatives:
- World Iyan Day: December 27th was officially declared “World Iyan Day” to celebrate the significance of this traditional dish.
- “Office to Farm” Agricultural Credit: This innovative program aims to connect office workers and other individuals with agricultural investment opportunities, promoting sustainable agricultural growth.
- Cultivation of 50 Million Yam Tubers: The initiative aims to boost yam production in Ekiti State and contribute to the state’s agricultural development.
Promoting Cultural Tourism and Economic Growth:
The carnival organizers emphasized the importance of agrotourism in driving economic growth.
By showcasing Ekiti’s unique cultural heritage and agricultural traditions, the event aims to attract tourists and stimulate economic activity in the region.
Government Support
The event received strong support from government officials, including the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Agricultural Extension and the Director-General of the Ekiti Bureau of Tourism.
Looking Ahead
The organizers plan to expand the “Office to Farm” initiative across Nigeria, encouraging participation from various sectors of society.
This innovative approach aims to connect individuals with agricultural investment opportunities and foster a new era of agricultural wealth creation in the country.
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