The Ekiti State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has hosted its inaugural “Iyan Day” as part of the 2024 press Week celebrations.
The event, which highlights the state’s rich culinary tradition, marked the first of its kind for the NUJ in Ekiti.
The event saw a large turnout of Union members from various Chapels, who gathered to enjoy food, drinks, and celebrate. The occasion provided an opportunity for journalists to bond and share in the spirit of unity and togetherness.
Speaking at the event, Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Professor Rasak Ojo-Bakare, expressed his satisfaction with the NUJ’s initiative. He noted that the program aligns with his ministry’s mission to promote Yoruba culture, heritage, and traditions.
Professor Ojo-Bakare also announced plans for future collaborations with the NUJ to enhance upcoming editions of the event. He emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, highlighting how it would further promote Yoruba culture and strengthen the relationship between the ministry and the NUJ.
Also speaking Ekiti State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi, explained that the “Iyan Day” initiative was deliberately introduced into the 2024 Press Week to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Ekiti, with a special focus on the state’s renowned Iyan delicacy.
“We journalists have always been working without enjoying ourselves. This week is to enjoy and celebrate ourselves. We held a series of programmes, including a health outreach for our members, and this is part of it,” Mr Babatuyi stated.
The occasion was graced by prominent figures, including the former NUJ Chairman, Akogun Tai Oguntayo, the Zone B National Vice President of the Union, Comrade Ronke Samo, the immediate past Ekiti NUJ Chairman, Comrade Rotimi Ojomoyela, Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs. Olawumi Famuyiwa, and the immediate past chairperson of the State Women Wing of the Union, Comrade Fatima Bello, among other dignitaries.
The event concluded with vibrant festivities, featuring captivating performances by the cultural troupe of Idoma indigenes residing in Ekiti State and the lively Kegite Gyration group. Their energetic displays entertained and enthralled the audience, adding a colorful touch to the celebration.
