The festival, held at the Ikorodu Musical Village and hosted by the Oshodi Arts Gallery, brought together children from over 20 schools across Lagos State to celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through performances, competitions, and artistic showcases. Aderibigbe's ingenuity stood out when he built a detailed miniature home entirely from cardboard paper, a feat that drew admiration from both the audience and organisers.
Impressed by the boy’s craftsmanship, Dr. Oshodi Paul, Chief Executive Officer of Oshodi Arts Gallery, announced the award on the spot. According to him, the scholarship is more than a reward—it is an investment in a young mind with clear potential.
"This opportunity will allow Aderibigbe to deepen his passion and develop hands-on architectural skills," Dr. Oshodi said. "What we do here at NACAF is about more than performance—it's about discovering talent and nurturing it from the roots."
Now in its fourth year, NACAF continues to evolve as a key platform for promoting creativity, confidence, and cultural pride among Nigerian children. Dr. Oshodi reaffirmed the festival’s mission to give young people a voice and the tools to shape their future through art.
“When we catch them young, we prepare them to lead with purpose,” he noted, stressing the long-term impact of early artistic exposure.
The event featured a colorful parade, traditional and contemporary dance contests, poetry recitations, and spelling competitions. A surprise appearance by a gorilla-themed dance clown added fun to the festivities, leaving children laughing and delighted. Participating schools were also awarded certificates in recognition of their contributions.
The initiative received widespread commendation from educators and cultural advocates. Mrs. Babington Agnes, Proprietress of Sacred Touch Schools, described the festival as a platform that reveals hidden talents often overlooked in regular school settings.
“This kind of event transforms lives,” she said. “It offers children a chance to discover who they are beyond the classroom.”
International support also came in, as Dr. Kirti Sudhaushu, founder of the KIRTIS KARE Foundation Asia Africa, sent a goodwill message hailing the gallery’s efforts in empowering the next generation through creative expression.
“Oshodi Arts Gallery is doing phenomenal work,” she stated. “They are shaping futures by anchoring them in culture and creativity.”
With children like Aderibigbe stepping into the spotlight, NACAF continues to affirm its role as a beacon of possibility for young Nigerian artists.