State House, Banqueting Hall Abuja, 4 July 2013
The Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation is
proud to announce the launch of Fascinating Nigeria. This new brand
is part of the Ministry’s vision to reposition Nigeria as the preferred
tourism destination and cultural capital in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Attended by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria His Excellency
Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR and hosted by Her Excellency the First Lady
and Nigeria’s Tourism Brand Ambassador Dame (Dr) Patience Goodluck Jonathan,
this exclusive occasion brings together respected dignitaries from across the nation to
witness the unveiling of Fascinating Nigeria.
The brand will be revealed in three stages, celebrating the Nigerian attributes of Warmth,
Nature and Rhythm and culminating in a Grand Finale. It will showcase Nigeria’s artists,
musicians, performers, comedians, poets, footballers, fashion designers and Nigerian
food in a branded Nigerian feast. Alongside in the Exhibition Hall there will be the
Fascinating Nigeria Exhibition and food expo.
Artists taking part include Iyanya, King Sunny Ade, P-Square, Tu Face, Ay and Omawumi
in a dynamic and diverse presentation designed to showcase the best of Nigeria. Nikki
Laoye opens the event with the Nigerian National Anthem and the National Troupe of
Nigeria will perform a dynamic routine for the Rising Sun opening.
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Oriki poetry takes centre stage with cultural themed poems to the richness of the land and
its diversity. Nollywood delivers a star-studded performance and sport also plays a role as
great football moments featuring Lionheart performances are recalled.
Nigeria’s heritage is revealed in glorious footage of some of the most diverse and culturally
important sites such as the ancient city of Kano, the Yankari Game Reserve and the Osun
Osogbo sacred grove.
Nigeria’s fashion industry is also embraced with an exhibition by FADAN (the Fashion
Designers’ Association of Nigeria), along with an art exhibition showcasing the best of
Nigerian talent.
President Goodluck Jonathan will address the audience about the economic and social
importance of positioning Nigeria as a tourist destination. Other speakers include Chief
Edem Duke, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation,
Princess Stella Oduah OON Honourable Minister of Aviation, His Excellency Mallam Bolaji
Abdullahi Honourable Minister of Sports and His Excellency Lyiel Imoke, the Executive
Governor of Cross River State.
The occasion also sees the launch of Fascinating Nigeria Magazine, the exciting new
publication that is dedicated to showcasing the wealth of diversity across Nigeria, from
fascinating people and cultures to historic destinations, locations and contemporary events.
The launch of Fascinating Nigeria is designed, organised and promoted by Ancorapoint Ltd
and is by invitation only. Launch sponsors include Heritage Bank, Osmoserve Global Ltd,
Famfa Oil, NTDC and MultiChoice.