By Olasubomi Olateju
The Founder of Iyan Carnival, Prince Ade Ajayi, has solicited Media support ahead of the maiden edition of World Iyan Carnival slated for 27th December, 2024.
While addressing newsmen at the Secretariat of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Prince Ajayi, a Chartered Fellow, Institute of Administrator and Researcher, and a lecturer at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, noted that the first ever pounded yam was from Ekiti State.
Describing World Iyan Carnival project, the founder said, the project is coming back to build an institution where if this present generations are no more, other generations coming behind should be able to follow up when it is documented.
According to Prince Ajayi, the implementation of the project started in July this year adding that the grand finale would be taking place at the Midas Arena, Ado-Ekiti on December 27th.
“It’s going to be an annual carnival where all Yoruba people will be coming to Ekiti for Iyan Carnival”.
Ajayi further explained that the third day of every Christmas has been dedicated for the Carnival saying it was linked to Christmas so that people all over the world can come and celebrate.
Stressing further, the Prince added that different groups of the society are expected to participate saying the only needed ticket to be part of the carnival is to appear in Ankara uniform that is meant for the purpose.
Other things to showcase in the course of the project as explained by the founder is OMOGE IYAN and IYAN CHALLENGE, where prizes would be won at the end of the day.
In her own remark, a farmer, Chidima Eze urged all and sundry to take good advantage of the opportunity that the project would bring to Ekiti as she explained that it’s not just about celebration but about empowering the people with the hope of encouraging people to grow more food.