The 8th edition of the Hadiza Ibrahim Aliyu Schools Festival (HIASFES) has officially commenced in Niger State, with the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ladidi Rakiya Bawa Bosso, described culture and education as critical engines of growth and development.
The festival, which brought together pupils and students from public and private schools across the state, aligned with the objectives of the New Niger Agenda. It aimed to revive reading culture, strengthen cultural identity, and integrate creative learning into the formal education system.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hon. Bosso emphasized that initiatives like HIASFES complement the state government’s investments in literacy promotion, indigenous knowledge systems, and youth-centered cultural programs. “Encouraging students to engage in reading, creative writing, performing arts, and intellectual competitions nurtures critical thinking and instills pride in our cultural heritage,” she said.
Founder of the festival, Alhaji Bala Abdullahi Kwatu, expressed gratitude to the state government for its support and highlighted the festival’s mission to counter declining reading habits among young people while preserving indigenous cultural expressions.
HIASFES features debates, quizzes, poetry recitations, storytelling, visual arts, music, and traditional dance competitions. The activities are designed to stimulate learning, foster healthy competition among schools, and reinforce Niger State’s rich cultural heritage.
Beyond entertainment, the festival serve as a platform for talent identification and mentorship, supporting government efforts to integrate culture and literacy into youth development.
The festival continue tomorrow with more educational and cultural engagements, advancing Niger State’s vision of a literate, culturally confident, and socially responsible society.
