Lagos to host first Gele Festival on November 8

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to hold the first Lagos Gele Festival on November 8, in a bid to celebrate the Yoruba headtie and promote traditional fashion and craftsmanship.

Idris Aregbe, special adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on tourism, arts and culture, disclosed this in a post on his X page on Sunday.

The event will hold at Eko Amore Garden, Lagos, from 5pm.

According to Aregbe, the festival was inspired by a proposal from a Lagos resident who asked that the gele be recognised, protected and added to the state’s cultural calendar.

“Months ago, a passionate son of Lagos wrote to us about the gele. He asked that it be honoured, protected, and given its rightful place on the Lagos calendar.

He described the gele as more than a headtie, noting that it represents Yoruba identity and a tradition handed down through generations.

Aregbe said the festival will recognise gele stylists, fabric makers, headtie artists, photographers and women who have kept the tradition alive.

He also invited Lagos residents, lovers of the city, brands and prospective partners to contribute ideas and support the initiative.

The festival is expected to serve as a platform for celebrating Yoruba cultural heritage, while creating opportunities for those working in fashion, textiles, photography and other creative sectors.

The initiative also aligns with the state government’s drive to promote cultural tourism and preserve Lagos’ cultural identity.

Aregbe urged residents and supporters to take part, calling it a collective celebration of Lagos culture.

“Lagos, let’s show the world why EKO FOR SHOW!” he added.

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