Team Nigeria has emerged overall winner of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Afro-Caribbean Carnival after securing the highest score at the annual cultural competition.
Nigeria finished with 259 points to claim victory across music, dance, theatre and cultural presentations at the event, which was held on July 30.
The 20+1 edition of the carnival was organised under the theme, “Humanity in the Age of AI,” focusing on the relationship between cultural heritage and the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
The Bahamas came second overall with 254 points, despite winning the road march category, while Brazil placed third with 249 points. Haiti, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago were also among the countries represented at the carnival.
A panel of judges determined the final standings after evaluating the participating teams based on factors including discipline, punctuality and their understanding of the history and cultural heritage of the countries they represented.
The Head of UNILAG’s Department of Creative Arts, Professor Osita Ezenwambe, praised the participants for their dedication, describing the carnival as an important platform for students to put their creative arts knowledge and skills into practice.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, said the festival contributes to the development of graduates who are not only academically sound but also creative, innovative and culturally conscious.
She also stressed the need for artificial intelligence to be harnessed as a tool for improving society and addressing challenges across different sectors.
The Afro-Caribbean Carnival was founded in 2005 by Dr Cornelius Onyeka Ibeabuchi to promote African and Caribbean cultures through music, dance and other forms of cultural expression, while providing students with opportunities to develop creativity and innovation.