4th Edition of Festival of Art for Economic Development to Spotlight Cross-Border Trade

 By Jumoke Owoola 

The much-anticipated 4th edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development is set to take center stage from February 8 to 15, 2025, at Idiroko, bringing together artists, traders, and economic stakeholders. Under the leadership of Dr. Bonny Abisogun Botoku, CEO of Integration Art Palace and Tour, this year’s festival aims to illuminate the crucial role of cross-border trade in regional and economic growth.

Themed “Cross-Border Trade: What It Is, Why It Matters,” the festival will explore the significance of trade in fostering sustainable development, strengthening local economies, and promoting cultural exchanges. The event is expected to attract a diverse audience, including policymakers, business leaders, and art enthusiasts, engaging in discussions on how art and commerce can drive economic transformation.

Dr. Johnson Oladesu, Exhibition Director and Head of the Fine Arts Department at Olabisi Onabanjo University, will curate a dynamic lineup of exhibitions, workshops, and panel discussions featuring industry experts and thought leaders. Institutional backing from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun 1 Area Command, under the leadership of Comptroller MS Shuaibu, alongside the Joint Inter-Border Security Forum, underscores the festival’s commitment to advancing cross-border economic cooperation.

Attendees can look forward to a vibrant program that blends artistic expression with trade discourse, providing a platform for artisans, entrepreneurs, and cultural stakeholders to engage, collaborate, and showcase African creativity.

“This festival is more than an exhibition; it is a strategic forum for dialogue on the role of trade in our economic future,” said Dr. Bonny Abisogun Botoku. “With the support of the Nigeria Customs Service Ogun 1 Area Command, we are excited to convene a diverse audience dedicated to harnessing art and commerce for economic prosperity.”

The Festival of Art for Economic Development invites the public to participate in this celebration of creativity, culture, and commerce from February 8 to 15, 2025, in Idiroko, Ipokia LGA, Ogun State.