When Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, a renowned constitutional lawyer and human‑rights activist, stepped onto the stage at the Au‑Ukhua Carnival on December 26, 2024, he didn’t just praise a cultural show – he highlighted a catalyst for regional prosperity.
The festivities unfolded on the expansive field of Iviukhua Primary School in Iviukhua, a village nestled in Edo State. Organized by Dr. Izuagbe, the 2024 edition introduced a trade fair, a raffle draw with a Toyota Sienna as the grand prize, and a glossy beauty pageant that crowned Itosimhe Michael Agwayambe Miss Au‑Ukhua Carnival 2024.
Carnival Overview and New Features
What began as a modest cultural march grew into a full‑blown weekend of spectacle. The trade fair attracted over 120 local vendors, showcasing everything from traditional yam products to handcrafted beadwork. The raffle, a first‑time addition, saw 3,200 tickets sold, and the roaring applause when the Toyota Sienna was handed to the lucky winner underscored the event’s commercial pull.
Beyond the fair, the carnival’s hallmark cultural march past featured over 80 masquerade groups, each moving in sync to drums that echoed from Lagos to Benin City. The march was a living map of Nigeria’s ethnic tapestry – dancers from Abuja’s northern states, performers from Zaria, and even a delegation from Cameroon that waved its flag proudly, signalling growing cross‑border appeal.
Economic and Agricultural Impact
Dr. Izuagbe told reporters that “Au‑Ukhua brings all sons, daughters, and families together to ensure unity, development, and the sustainable utilization of our human, material, agricultural, and cultural resources.” The numbers back that claim. Local farm cooperatives reported a 27% jump in sales of cassava and pepper during the week surrounding the carnival, a direct result of the trade fair’s agricultural booth.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Ministry of Agriculture estimates that the influx of tourists – roughly 5,600 domestic visitors and 800 international guests – injected an estimated ₦185 million ($370,000) into the local economy. Hotels in the nearby town of Auchi reported 95% occupancy, a stark contrast to the usual 60% in January.
Tourism Endorsement and International Reach
One pivotal moment arrived when the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) officially endorsed the carnival. The endorsement, announced on December 22, turned the event into a federal‑backed showcase, opening doors to promotional funding and wider media coverage.
The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) sent a crew to broadcast live segments, and the newly launched YouTube channel, Au‑Ukhua Carnival TV, logged 12,000 views within 48 hours. “We’re now on the map as a top tourist destination in Edo State,” Dr. Izuagbe said, smiling as cameras captured the jubilant crowd.
Community Voices and Cultural Significance
Beyond stats, the carnival resonated on a personal level. Elder Queen Akpejiori Rachael Onoshioagbe, who placed the crown on Miss Agwayambe’s head, reflected on the event’s symbolism: “Our masquerades tell stories of resilience; our dances echo the heartbeat of the land.”
Chief Ozekhome added a scholarly note, reminding listeners that African cultural heritage “is the cradle of civilization, rooted deep in the black race’s history.” His remarks sparked a spontaneous chant from the audience, a chorus that blended Igbo, Yoruba, and Edo dialects – a living illustration of the carnival’s unifying power.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, organizers are already mapping the 2025 edition. Plans include a larger agribusiness expo, a partnership with the Federal Ministry of Tourism for a scholarship program for local artisans, and a “green corridor” that will showcase renewable‑energy projects across Weppa Wanno Land.
Will the carnival keep growing? Experts think so. Dr. Adaeze Nwankwo, a cultural economist at the University of Benin, notes, “When a cultural event receives federal endorsement and demonstrable economic returns, it becomes a model for other rural communities.” If the trend holds, Au‑Ukhua could become a case study in how tradition fuels development.
- December 26, 2024 – Carnival day at Iviukhua Primary School Field
- More than 120 vendors participated in the trade fair
- 3,200 raffle tickets sold; Toyota Sienna awarded as grand prize
- Attendance: ~6,400 visitors (domestic + international)
- Economic impact: estimated ₦185 million injected into local economy
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Au‑Ukhua Carnival affect local farmers?
The carnival’s trade fair gave farmers a platform to sell directly to consumers. Cassava sales rose 27% and pepper sales jumped 22% compared to the same period last year, translating into higher incomes for over 40 farming families.
What role did the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority play?
The NTDA’s endorsement turned the carnival into a federally recognised tourist attraction, unlocking promotional funds, facilitating media coverage on NTA, and attracting visitors from neighboring countries, including a delegation from Cameroon.
Who won the beauty pageant, and why is it significant?
Itosimhe Michael Agwayambe was crowned Miss Au‑Ukhua Carnival 2024 by Queen Akpejiori Rachael Onoshioagbe. Her win highlights the carnival’s commitment to celebrating local talent and offers her a platform to promote women’s empowerment in the region.
What new attractions were added for 2024?
The 2024 edition introduced a trade fair, a raffle draw with a Toyota Sienna as the grand prize, and expanded the cultural march to include participants from across Nigeria and an international delegation from Cameroon.
What are the plans for the next carnival?
Organisers aim to enlarge the agribusiness expo, partner with the Federal Ministry of Tourism for artisan scholarships, and launch a "green corridor" showcasing renewable‑energy projects, positioning the carnival as a driver of sustainable development.
So the carnival’s now a national economic powerhouse, huh? A few drums and a raffle and we’ve solved all of Edo’s problems.