By Abubakar Yunusa
The Southern Kaduna Community Development Associations (CDAs Forum) in collaboration with Southern Kaduna Leadership Council (SKLC) and the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), have concluded preparations to host the maiden edition of Southern Kaduna Festival (SKFEST – 2023), for the socio-cultural, economic and peaceful development of the region.
During a press conference on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Admiral Ferguson Bobai (RTD), announced that the event is scheduled to take place from December 28th to 30th, 2023.
“I am delighted to welcome you to today’s press conference, signaling the commencement of the Southern Kaduna Festival, SKFEST 2023.
Subcommittees have been established and have completed arrangements to stage the inaugural edition, emphasizing the untapped potential in Arts, Culture, Economics, Sports, and Tourism for sustainable economic growth in our beloved SK, as we affectionately refer to our region, and Kaduna State at large.”
Bobai expressed confidence that the festival would exemplify the resolute commitment to exploring the Arts, Culture, Sports, Entertainment, and Tourism industries, recognizing their significant impact on generations.
“The festival serves as a tool to reflect the cultural identities of the SK people. Therefore, the Central Planning Committee of SKFEST is tasked with planning the festivity as a means to revitalize our rich cultural heritage and values.”
Consequently, the Committee, in this maiden edition, calls on all SK Sons and Daughters to participate actively and enjoy the festival, guided by the theme, “Experience Unity, Celebrate Culture.”
Bobai explained, “This theme aims to preserve and promote the cultural industries of each CDA and showcase not only investment opportunities but also explore job opportunities, especially for our youth.”
The major participants in SKFEST include the 57 CDAs of SK, Non-Governmental Organizations, Youth Groups, Associations, and other stakeholders in the cultural sector. Various events, such as the Opened Market, Musical Concert, Wrestling, Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Football Tournament, Archery, 21 Kilometer Marathon Race, Beauty Pageant, Traditional Cuisine Competition, and Colloquium, will be held at different venues.
Bobai concluded, “Each of the 10 competitive events will have a Special Guest, a Chairperson, a Coordinator, and a Panel of Professional Judges from relevant specializations to ensure credible winners.
” Prizes and certificates will be awarded for both winning and participation. It’s noteworthy that distinguished sons and daughters of SK will be honored, posthumously and living, in four categories for their outstanding contributions and service to SK, Kaduna State, and Nigeria at large.”
