Organisers of the Ohueje Ohinoyi Heritage Festival have said that the ‘The 100 Looms Plus’ competition would attract investment to Ebiraland.
Chairman of the event planning committee, Alhaji Sheidu Adinoyi Tijani said Ebira women have benefited from previous competitions due to increased patronage of their businesses.
According to him, the competition is a platform for weavers to showcase their creativity.
He said: “This is because previous editions attracted a lot of investment in weaving industry to Egbira communities, as business people from South West region flooded the venue of the event, buying products directly from the weavers, which enhanced their source of livelihoods.
“This time around, the 100 looms plus will be a weaving competition for over 100 weavers. In this edition, the women are expected to commence the weaving of a complete set of wrapper from their own studio and finish them at the grand finale.
“It is going to be a win-win competition for them as the women will receive their normal wage and consequently, prizes for their excellence in various category.
“As a people known for creativity, pottery will be introduced into the 7th edition of the festival to enrich this year’s edition.
Other activities lined up to spice the festival would be paper presentation by practicing ceramist to create awareness that would drive investment to Okehi Local Government due to its large deposit of clay.
Also, there will be symposium, short drama and exhibition that will enhance the quality of a three-day festival and eating competition called “Iyya Hanna” (pounded yam eaten competition).
