Lagos — Participants at the annual Lagos Carnival, yesterday, commended Governor Babatunde Fashola for initiating and sustaining the funfair.

They told newsmen that the event had enhanced their social lives and provided a platform for relaxation.

The one-day carnival, held at the Tafawa Balewa Square, had the theme: "Eko for Show" and featured different groups of Lagos residents in beautiful costumes.

Some participants, especially the youth, danced to the music which blared from loudspeakers.

They moved from the National Museum, Onikan, through the King George V Road to Catholic Mission Road and back to the museum.

One of the participants, Mr Adeola Kaka, said the carnival created an avenue for residents to interact with one another.

He said: "We really have to commend the governor for this yearly event because it gives us the opportunity to interact. I have met some old friends and made new ones. I thank the governor for the opportunity."

Another participant, Miss Ronke Apata, said the carnival made her Easter holiday more memorable.

"I am really enjoying myself here watching these beautiful displays. For me, there could not have been a better way to relax," she said.

Fashola said the carnival was a platform for social interaction, as well as a means to empower the youth.

"Lagos carnival has grown in its three years of existence by re-inventing and drawing more participants and spectators each year. It has also become a vehicle to drive the creativity and resourcefulness of the young people of Lagos State to skill acquisition centres," he said.

He pledged his administration's commitment to the sustenance of the event.