SPECIAL GUEST & HONOREES

Join us at the Kogi International Carnival 2024,happening from 1st to 7th December! A week of vibrant culture,music and unforgettable celebrations awaits in kogi. Dont miss the excitement.

Special Guests & Honorees

The Kogi International Carnival offers a unique platform for brands to engage with a diverse audience, enhance their visibility, and align with a national event that celebrates culture, unity, and development. Our sponsorship packages provide a range of benefits that allow your brand to be part of an extraordinary cultural celebration.

Dr. Mrs. Nike Okundaye – Icon of the Kogi International Carnival

In recognition of her monumental contributions to promoting and preserving Nigerian art and culture, Dr. Mrs. Nike Okundaye has been named the Icon of the Kogi International Carnival, bringing international acclaim and cultural depth to the celebration.
Dr. Mrs. Nike Okundaye, a globally renowned artist, cultural ambassador, and entrepreneur, has dedicated her life to showcasing the richness of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. As the founder and director of the Nike Art Gallery, one of the largest art galleries in Africa, Dr. Okundaye has created an internationally recognized platform for local and global artists to exhibit their works. The gallery, home to over 8,000 artworks, is a cultural hub that has fostered cross-cultural exchange, provided support for emerging artists, and brought Nigerian art to the international stage.
Her work has earned her numerous prestigious accolades, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and the Fellowship of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA). Dr. Okundaye’s contributions to Nigerian art extend far beyond curation. Through her dedication to traditional textile art, particularly Adire (Yoruba indigo dyeing), she has revitalized this traditional art form, showcasing it in major art exhibitions in New York, London, Vienna, and Washington D.C. Her exhibitions and workshops on indigenous textile arts have helped spread Nigerian culture globally, cementing her status as an icon in the art world.

Dr. Okundaye’s journey as an advocate for cultural preservation has been profiled by international outlets such as BBC, CNN, and The New York Times, further demonstrating her role as a bridge between Nigerian culture and the world. Through her leadership and mentorship, she has empowered over 3,000 Nigerian women, teaching them traditional arts and crafts, promoting economic independence, and fostering cultural pride.


During the carnival, Dr. Okundaye will be honored with a special recognition award for her outstanding contributions to Nigerian art and culture. This accolade will not only celebrate her achievements but also highlight the cultural exchange fostered by her work, positioning Kogi as a hub for global cultural dialogue. Her presence at the carnival is set to inspire future generations of artists and cultural enthusiasts, ensuring that the Kogi International Carnival is seen as a premier event of artistic and cultural excellence.

Dr. Mrs. Nike Okundaye’s Key Roles at the Carnival

As the Icon of the Kogi International Carnival, Dr. Mrs. Nike Okundaye will lead the parade, deliver a keynote on cultural preservation, curate an exclusive art exhibition, and engage in discussions to inspire cultural appreciation and innovation.

Grand Marshal of the Carnival Procession

Leading dynamic parades that highlight the state’s diverse cultural traditions.

Keynote Address

Delivering insights on the importance of cultural preservation and how culture shapes national identity and drives social cohesion.

Art Exhibition Curation

Curating a special exhibition that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Kogi State, blending traditional and contemporary elements to create a visual narrative of the state’s history and people.

Workshops and Panel Discussions

Participating in cultural workshops and panel discussions, providing visitors with opportunities for intellectual engagement on topics of cultural preservation, heritage conservation, and artistic innovation.