As Delta State celebrates its 34th anniversary, the DATCH Festival is organising a landmark carnival dedicated to transforming Delta’s diversity into a cornerstone for unity, peace, and security.
The carnival takes its name from the MORE Agenda of Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, which aims to promote meaningful development and opportunities for all in the state.
Mr. Victor Wilkinson Agih, Global Program Director of the Pan African Culture, Heritage Envoys for Economic Development Festival, explained in a statement that the MORE-Heritage Carnival aims to turn diversity into the foundation of security and solidarity.
He further stated that the MORE-Heritage Carnival is rooted in a philosophy that regards cultural expression not only as a source of identity but also as a framework for reconciliation, resilience, and regional development.
“This carnival is a bridge. It gives our youth not only the pride of heritage but also the tools to lead in peacebuilding and enterprise. Culture becomes both shield and seed for the future,” he said.
“Delta is home to 10 indigenous cultural and linguistic groups whose traditions, histories, and creativity enrich Nigeria and the world. Yet this diversity has also carried legacies of misunderstanding and conflict. The MORE-Heritage Carnival responds with a transformative solution: embedding inter-ethnic cultural diplomacy into the state’s social contract.
“The carnival is designed as an annual rotating event across Delta’s three senatorial districts, convening tens of thousands of participants in a celebration of One Delta, One Destiny. More than a festival, it is a strategy—linking cultural expressions to peacebuilding, conflict prevention, youth empowerment, and economic opportunity. By doing so, Delta is rewriting the narrative: culture is not just about preservation; it is about prevention, protection, and progress.”
Mr. Kelechi Freeman Ukadike, the chief executive officer (CEO) of the festival, who spoke in the same vein, stressed that Delta must move from celebrating difference to operationalising unity.
With over ₦50 billion in projected multistakeholder investments in the Culture economy by banks, telecoms, and creative industry partners, the carnival will deliver permanent heritage centres, intercultural youth hubs, and enterprise accelerators across Delta’s senatorial districts.
Besides, among seven strategic pathways the carnival will be anchored on, no fewer than 10,000 youth cultural envoys will be trained in conflict resolution, diplomacy, and heritage innovation, deploying their skills across schools, communities, and local institutions.
The inaugural edition of the MORE-Heritage Carnival is designed to draw an anticipated audience of 1,000,000 participants, including traditional rulers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, artists, and youth leaders. From fashion exhibitions and food fairs to unity parades and intercultural performances, the carnival will be a vibrant showcase of Delta’s living heritage.
But beyond the performances and parades, its impact will be structural: embedding cultural diplomacy into policy frameworks, peacebuilding programs, and economic strategies.
