Bayelsa has emerged best overall at the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) competitive events.

The competitive events were on traditional cuisines, arts and crafts, essay writing, quiz, traditional board game, indigenous fabrics and fashion parade, indigenous music, archery and coral competitions.

Ekiti and Rivers emerged in the 2nd overall position, Plateau bagged 3rd position, Kano and Enugu states had the fourth position, while Delta, Kaduna states and the Federal Capital Territory bagged the fifth position.

This was announced during the closing ceremony of the 33rd edition of NAFEST which held at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos, Plateau State.

Andrew Kirifagha, Director, Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture, expressed his excitement over the state’s victory.

Mr. Kirifagha said he was not surprised as the state had been preparing for the various cultural competitions since August and lots of revenue had gone into the preparation.

He appreciated the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), and the Plateau state government for hosting the ancient festival even as COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the world.

He said the state’s victory would further gear them to do more in promoting culture.

“I am excited for the victory achieved today, but am not surprised because we have been practicing since August, we have done a lot to deserve this victory.

“We will work hard on cultural promotion to maintain our status.

“We are grateful to Plateau state for its hospitality. We really enjoyed our stay in the state,” he said.