24/11/2025
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
From the Office of the Permanent Secretary,
Bayelsa State Ministry of Culture
Madam Tonye Koroye
Good morning distinguished colleagues, cultural stakeholders, and the esteemed people of Bayelsa State.
As a State that has won the NAFEST Championship back-to-back—including our remarkable victory last year—Bayelsa has consistently demonstrated excellence, unity, and unmatched cultural strength. It was therefore a profound shock when the information on the postponement of NAFEST 2025 reached us in Enugu, where I was present with some Ministry staff and members of our cultural contingent fully prepared to participate in this year’s festival.
Despite the unexpected development, I want to use this medium to sincerely appreciate our dear Governor, His Excellency Sen. Douye Diri, for his continuous support, his fatherly guidance, and his unwavering commitment to the cultural advancement of our people. His Excellency’s consistent encouragement has been the backbone of our successes over the years.
I also wish to specially congratulate and appreciate our Honourable Commissioner for Culture, who has returned safely from Enugu after leading our formidable Bayelsa cultural troops. The Honourable Commissioner represented the State with dignity, ensured the welfare of our contingent, and provided strong leadership throughout our stay until our orderly return home. We are grateful that all members of our delegation have returned safely.
(Photos below)
As we all know, the postponement was announced by the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy following careful assessment of the national mood in light of recent insecurity incidents across the country. While the news is disappointing, especially given the level of preparedness of over 28 states who had already arrived in Enugu, we understand and respect the decision.
The Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mr. Asika Obi, also addressed culture stakeholders, expressing deep appreciation for the resilience and commitment of all contingents. He encouraged us not to lose hope, reminding us that every disappointment carries its own silver lining and that greater prospects lie ahead for our nation’s cultural sector.
On behalf of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Culture, I commend all our cultural ambassadors for their discipline, patience, and unwavering readiness to showcase our heritage once again. Bayelsa remains proud, prepared, and ever committed to promoting national unity through culture.
We look forward to the announcement of NAFEST 2026 and assure our people that Bayelsa will continue to represent with excellence whenever we are called upon.
Bayelsa will always stand tall.
Our culture remains our pride.
