Nine young artists have emerged winners in the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, after a rigorous selection involving 153 entries from secondary and tertiary institutions across the state.
The competition, themed “My Lagos. My Art,” sought to discover creative talents capable of telling Lagos’ story through art and innovation.
Speaking at the grand finale, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the programme reflected the administration’s commitment to youth development and the creative economy.
“This initiative bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical creative enterprise. It harnesses young people’s potential and provides a platform for them to shine,” she said.
Ayinde-Marshal noted that entries were evaluated on creativity, originality, technical skill, and relevance to the theme, with the final nine winners determined through an online public vote.
Each winner received a one-year scholarship from the state government.
The winners are: Israel Adedoyin, Oluwatobi Kolawole, and Desmond Awatefe (junior category); Alexis Aghenta, Maryam Awolewa, and Usa Pascal (senior category); and Goodness Popoola, Azeez Aderibigbe, and Samuel Aina (tertiary category).
Dr David, one of the judges and a visual artist, praised the students’ creativity, saying the evaluation went beyond technical ability to include presentation and storytelling.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr Adeniran Kasali, said the initiative was helping young people refine their creative abilities for future economic opportunities.
Senior category winner Maryam Awolewa said her artwork used beads to represent geometric shapes, adding that it combined artistry with education in a colourful and innovative way.
