Nigeria, Brazil Deepen Cultural Ties With Akara–Acarajé Festival
NIGERIA and Brazil are joining hands to celebrate their shared Afro-heritage through the Akara–Acarajé Festival, a joint cultural initiative that blends cuisine, fitness, and fashion to promote unity and wellness.
The Akara Festival, organised by Fitnesstalkshow Communications, will take place from October 16 to 19 at the Elekahia Stadium, Port Harcourt, as part of the global World Food Day celebrations.
The four-day event will feature culinary competitions, traditional games, music, dance, exhibitions, and Ankara fashion displays — highlighting the deep cultural connection between both nations.
Celebrating Shared Heritage
Mr. Soye Elekima, President of the Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of Nigeria (ABBFN) and representative of the IFBB Academy in Nigeria, is leading the Nigerian leg of the event.
He explained that the Akara–Acarajé partnership represents the historic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Brazil.
“This collaboration is not just about food or fitness. It is a celebration of our shared African roots, our fashion, our music, and our health,” Elekima said.
“It also aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and stems directly from the recent bilateral agreements signed with Brazil.”
Fitness Meets Culture
A major highlight of the festival is the SHAPE UP Nigeria 30×30 Fitness Challenge, which runs from October 1 to 30.
The initiative encourages Nigerians to engage in 30 minutes of exercise daily for 30 days, promoting wellness while showcasing Akara as a nutritious and culturally significant food.
Fitnesstalkshow Communications Ltd is also partnering with food producers and distributors as sponsors and vendors to enhance participation and reach.
Fashion, Food, and Friendship
The cultural components of the festival will include joint culinary exhibitions, Ankara fashion shows, and music and art displays from both Nigeria and Brazil.
Ankara prints — famous for their vibrant colours and bold designs — will be incorporated into décor, outfits, and even food packaging, symbolising cultural fusion and creativity.
This initiative aligns with the five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed during President Tinubu’s recent visit to Brazil, covering aviation, trade, energy, culture, and science and technology.
A key outcome of that visit was the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), enabling direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil for the first time in decades — a move both presidents hailed as a gateway to deeper cooperation in tourism, culture, and commerce.
Call for Support
Elekima called on corporate bodies, philanthropists, public institutions, and cultural enthusiasts to support and participate in the upcoming festival.
“For sponsorship, participation, or enquiries about the Akara Festival or the SHAPE UP Challenge, call 08029707735 or 09167773831,” he said.
