Asa Festival

Last updated
Asa Festival
Statue of an Agere dancer (A man walking on long stilts).jpg
Language Yoruba
Origin
Meaningstatue
Region of originWestern Region, Nigeria

The Asa Festival, known locally as Agere, is a festival in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria is an event promoting the traditional stilt-walking unique to the region. It is operated by the Ikorodu Division Rebirth Foundation (IREP) and supported by community leaders, including the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi. The festival features various cultural displays, including the launch of "Asa Arokolo," a book detailing its historical significance. [1] [2] [3] [4]

The festival is centered on the Asa masquerade, involving performers walking on tall stilts while performing dances and acrobatics. This was historically used for communal entertainment, spiritual observances and as a symbol of the community's identity. The festival was first held in 2017, and was recognized by the Government of Lagos State in the same year as one of its yearly cultural festivals. IREP is led by the Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly and representative of the Ikorodu Constituency I Sanai Agunbiade. [5]

References

  1. Nigeria, Guardian (2019-08-07). "Asa Festival to unite, expand culture, tourism in Ikorodu". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 2024-12-16.
  2. Grace, Ihesiulo (2017-11-05). "Ikorodu indigenes revive 'Asa' cultural festival". DAILY TIMES Nigeria. Retrieved 2024-12-16.
  3. "Tourism: Ikorodu indigenes revive 'Asa' festival" . Retrieved 2024-12-16.
  4. seguntuase (2021-12-19). "Ikorodu Celebrates Asa Arokolo Festival With Fanfare". TheNewsTurf. Retrieved 2024-12-16.
  5. Newspaper, Impact (2021-12-15). "Another Asa Arokolo Festival Holds Tomorrow -" . Retrieved 2024-12-16.