BY AMAYINDI YAKUBU
The Delta International Theatre, Arts and Crafts Festival, popularly known as DeltaFest, made a colourful return at St Patrick’s College, Asaba, over the weekend, spotlighting culture, creativity, and commerce under the theme “Harnessing the Creative Arts and Crafts for Revenue Generation and Economic Development.”
Now in its second edition, DeltaFest went beyond cultural celebration to position the state’s artists, artisans, and creators as key players in economic growth. The two-day event featured exhibitions, drama, dance, fashion parades, children’s talent showcases, and the unveiling of the Ditafest National Compendium 2025.
The festival drew participants from across the state, including performers, designers, sculptors, food vendors, traditional healers, and youth talents.
Framing the event as both a cultural and social intervention, the Permanent Secretary of the Directorate of Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Henry Demesi, stressed the need to preserve heritage and pass traditions on to younger generations.
“Many of our young people have forgotten their roots; events like this rekindle that memory and encourage our youth to project our culture,” he said.
Festival Director, Comrade Alex Akpuh, echoed the economic thrust of the gathering. “These performances and displays are not only cultural; they are assets we must harness to generate income and create jobs,” he said.
Visitors and officials toured a vibrant marketplace featuring handcrafted beads, textiles, ceramics, carved works, paintings, and regional delicacies, reflecting the diversity of the Delta’s creative economy.
The Head of the Department of Fine and Industrial Art at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Mr Awele Adingwupu, brought students and their works to the exhibition, showcasing how arts education can drive entrepreneurship.
“Instead of searching for jobs after school, students can create jobs. We want them to turn their work into businesses and employ others,” he said.
Small-scale entrepreneurs also seized the platform. CEO of Josssy Concept, Josephine Oby Nwakor, described the festival as invaluable. “This event helps me showcase my talent, meet clients, and learn from other artisans. It opens doors for collaboration and income,” she said.
A highlight of the festival was the unveiling of the Ditafest National Compendium 2025, a curated guide to Delta’s artists, crafts, and cultural offerings, designed to connect artisans with buyers, investors, and cultural tourists. The compendium aims to expand market access and support cultural programming across the state.
Beyond its commercial benefits, DeltaFest reaffirmed the role of culture in social cohesion while underscoring the economic message that creative skills and training can translate into sustainable livelihoods.
