Abe Abiodun ,the new Artist director of Abuja Carnival have promise Nigerians that this year’s Carnival won’t be a thing Nigerians will forget in a hurry. He said this during a press briefing at the National Theater. The briefing which was well attended by the Organisers of the Carnival included the Minister of Tourism Culture and National Orientation Edem duke
Duke in his speech said this year’s event is with the theme ‘Creating an Enduring Creative Nation’ which holds this month from the 24th to the 27th. According to him, Abuja Carnival commenced in 2005 under the Obasanjo’s Administration with the Objective of Presenting and preserving the rich intangible cultural heritage of Nigeria, showcasing Abuja as a destination of choice, a brand that celebrate Nigeria as a safe , warm and hospitable tourism destination .
Abe who have served as technical Director of the Carnival for six years said he has seen the carnival grown in leaps and bounds from inception which have strived to meet its objective by presenting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.He noted the success of the past carnivals to deliver a world class cultural extravagant that is second to none , hence the pay-off Abuja National Carnival 2014 is ‘the last time you saw a carnival’. He promise that this year’s carnival will experience a unique artistry both in content and execution.
Abe who is a deputy director with the National Theatre, Iganmu Lagos, was until his appointment as Artistic Director of Abuja Carnival in charge of events and management at the Theatre. A consummate artiste, designer and dramatist, he studied Performing Arts at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State and Creative Arts at the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos. He was once the president National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP). He held the position for several years during which he uplifted the standard of stage theatre in Nigeria. He also empowered young artistes to find fulfillment in the profession.
A professional stage designer, Abe is known for his classical and exceptional stage designs and lighting which cut across all genres of the stage. He had in the past designed Abuja Carnival floats for some participating states some of whom used the floats to emerge winners in various categories.
This year’s Abuja Carnival will leave a lasting memories in the minds of Nigerians.
