The Lagos State Government has rewarded outstanding students at the grand finale of the second edition of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition, reaffirming its commitment to promoting creativity and arts education across public schools in the state.
The event, held on Tuesday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together students, education administrators, government officials and other stakeholders to celebrate artistic excellence across various creative disciplines.
According to the organisers, 489 students registered for the competition, while 132 entries were eventually submitted for assessment by an independent panel of judges. The competition featured categories including painting, drawing, sculpture, beadwork, textile design, leatherwork, digital art and upcycling.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Bonu Solomon, described the competition as an important platform for identifying and nurturing young creative talents.
He encouraged participating students to continue developing their artistic abilities, noting that creativity remains an essential part of education and national development.
Representing the Lagos State Head of Service, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, said the competition reflects the state’s commitment to building an education system that values innovation alongside academic achievement.
She noted that initiatives such as the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition provide students with opportunities to develop practical skills while showcasing their creative potential.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Oyekan Ismaila Bopo, said participants were drawn from schools across Lagos State’s five education districts, as well as tertiary institutions.
He urged students to see the creative industry as a viable career path, adding that arts and crafts have become significant contributors to employment and entrepreneurship within the country’s growing creative economy.
The competition ended with the presentation of prizes and recognition to outstanding participants for their artistic works.
