Category: Culture & Tourism

By Taiye Olayemi and Aderonke Ojediran

Lagos is set to host no fewer than 200 international tourists from 11 countries for the maiden edition of Afropolis Lagos Festival, slated to hold from Oct. 26 to Nov. 3.
Mr Qudus Onikeku, the festival initiator, disclosed this during a news conference on Wednesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Afropolis Lagos Festival with the theme “Within New Myth”, is a collaboration between QDance Centre and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Onikeku, who is the founder of QDance Centre, described the festival as an African diaspora-focused festival.
He said 200 artistes and tourists from over 11 countries including South Africa, Togo, Benin Republic, France, U.S., Ghana, Netherlands, Morocco, Ethiopia, Colombia and Brazil would participate in the festival.
According to him, the festival will be celebrating the rich cultural heritage, creativity and innovation of Lagos state.
“We are expecting 200 international tourists from 11 countries to participate in this festival. Over 20,000 local and international tourists are expected.
“Specifically, these people will be coming from Dakar, Cotonou, Lomé, Johannesburg, Marrakech, Addis Ababa, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Sao Paulo, Bogota, Cartagena, Saint Anne, New York and Florida.
“You will also have artistes from Lagos, Kaduna, Abuja, Asaba and more. We will have a large gathering of artistes, creators, technologists, innovators and tourists, coming to be part of Lagos landscape for nine days.
“So, we are closing down the JK Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History road from Oct. 26 through to Nov. 3, to create a big festival arena.
“Also, in that festival, there will be visual art exhibition, dance performances, music concerts, dance competitions, pop-up arts spaces, children corner that we call the play zone.
“There will also be a tech zone that will be run by CC Hub. So, the way we have put it together is a real collaborative process between different components of the creative ecosystem in Nigeria and not just Lagos. We will have the comedians, poets and many others,” he said.
Onikeku noted that tourists could register to attend the festival through afropolis.org, as individuals would only be required to pay N3,000 per day or N15,000 for the nine days.
Earlier, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, said that Afropolis Lagos Festival would be a celebration of Lagos people and Nigerian identity as well as a showcase of talents.
She said it would be a testament to the power of creativity to unite and inspire.
According to her, the festival will be an avenue for African creatives to come together, showcase their talents, exchange ideas and collaborate on groundbreaking projects.
She said the festival would further celebrate Lagos as the largest black cultural melting pot in the world.
“From Oct. 26 to Nov. 3, Lagos will become the epicentre of African creativity, welcoming artistes, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka said that the opening day, Oct. 26, would kick off with a VIP preview and cocktail, followed by a grand opening ceremony at ‘The Vibez Stage’.
“We will be honoured to host a fireside chat with our esteemed Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, where we will explore Lagos’ role as a hub for the global African creative economy.
“On Oct. 27, the streets of Lagos Island will come alive with a vibrant carnival procession, embodying the spirit and energy of our people.
“The day will culminate in the Afropolis Global African Vibez Exchange (G.A.V.E), a testament to our commitment to fostering international collaborations.
“Oct. 28 marks a historic moment with the official opening of the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. We will be privileged to have Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu lead us on a tour of this significant cultural landmark.”
According to her, the festival will host daily film programmes, interactive art installations, and performances that span the spectrum of African creativity, from traditional to contemporary, dance to music, and visual arts to technology.
She said that the closing weekend would feature an international performance, which would showcase the incredible talents of “Our Afropolis Tribe of 2024”, followed by a grand finale of ‘Afro House and EDM Rave’ on Nov. 3.
“To our young talents who are making significant strides on the global stage, Afropolis is your stage to shine. To our local and international visitors, prepare to be immersed in an unparalleled celebration of African creativity and innovation.
“As we launch Afropolis 2024, we are not just opening a festival; we are opening doors to new possibilities, fostering connections that transcend borders, and showcasing the incredible potential of our creative industries to drive economic growth and cultural exchange.
“I invite all Lagosians, Nigerians, and our international friends to join us in this celebration. Let us come together to experience the magic of Afropolis, to be inspired, to create, and to reinforce Lagos’ position as a global creative powerhouse,” she said.
Also, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, noted that the festival was of paramount importance to Gov. Sanwo-Olu, considering its numerous benefits to the state and individuals in general.

IGR: Society urges government at all levels to look into arts

By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

A Professional Art Society, Gessomate has declared that arts in Nigeria has progressed over the years in several new aspects spinning up, unlike it was in the 80s.

The society, made the declaration at an exhibition held at Alliance Francaise, Iyaganku, Ibadan, to celebrate its 25th anniversary, tagged, “Mind Searching A Commemorative Art Exhibition.”

Ellis Oyekola, Founder, Centre For African Art and Designs, in his speech at the event, affirmed that arts in Nigeria has advanced positively over the years.

Oyekola said, “I finished in the university in 1985. Arts is now out of its rudimentary stage; it now involves technology, and ICT has further exposed it globally.

“Arts is blossoming in Nigeria, and the youths are making good use of it and ICT, with its graphic section these days don’t use their hands to draw like in my days, but rather use the computer.

“Arts has evolved and will keep evolving.”

He noted that government has a lot to do in terms of arts and should gear up and start taking arts seriously, especially in secondary schools.

“Our teachers do not teach arts anymore, instead, they teach music and drama. I personally took it upon myself to offer free training to the young ones interested in arts at my centre.

“I am giving back to the society what the society has given me,”he said

The Head of Department, Arts, Design and Printing Technology, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Mr Felix Egunjobi, expressed optimism that more values would be placed on works of arts.

He advised government at all levels to know that arts is one of the ways of generating revenue, saying there are many arts that are domicile in our strengths.

Mr Abiola Olugbile; President, Gessomate Professional Society, said that they are celebrating arts, friendship and bound that has kept the artists together in the past 25 years of promoting arts in the country.

He decried the patronage of arts, saying it has not been encouraging, while arts is life, good, make people show things and reflects our tradition, culture and gives to indepth thinking.

“Arts is large and government can explore all areas of arts for more revenue,” he said

By Taiye Olayemi

Goge Africa, a renowned media and culture brand, has made a passionate appeal to the government, corporate organisations, and culture enthusiasts to support the upcoming Goge Africa Festival, commemorating its 25th anniversary.
Nneka Isaac-Moses, Managing Director of Goge Africa made the call in a statement on Sunday, in Lagos.
She said the festival, scheduled to take place from 26 to 27 October at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos, aimed to celebrate Nigeria and Africa’s rich cultural heritage and empower the continent’s collective future.
Isaac-Moses emphasised the significance of this milestone, stating that the festival would serve as a driver of economic growth and cultural pride, creating thousands of jobs and stimulating local and national economies.
According to her, with over 20,000 attendees expected and 40 million viewers tuning in globally, the festival promises to be a massive platform for local and international investment, positioning Lagos as a leading hub for African arts and culture.
Isaac-Moses highlighted Goge Africa’s impressive track record, having generated employment for over 100,000 Nigerians and trained 1,750 youths in tourism over the past 25 years.
She said in spite of this, the organisation had never received financial support from the Nigerian government.
She appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other stakeholders to rally behind the festival, emphasising that supporting it would be an investment in Africa’s cultural identity, economy, and youth.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

The Just Theatre House on Saturday in Lagos staged “Welldone Sir”, a play written by Ola Awakan, which addresses mental health in men.

The play was performed in commemoration of the World Mental Health Day, usually celebrated every Oct. 10.

”Welldone Sir” beams light on the different challenges men are usually confronted with, which lead to depression, suicide, drug addiction and other social vices.

The 50 minutes play tells how men should be appreciated by their spouses, family members and colleagues as often as possible, putting into consideration the huddles they are exposed to in their quest to be responsible individuals.

The play is about the death of Tunmishe, said to be a responsible man and a role model to many while alive.

Tunmishe’s friends felt guilty for not probing into the reason he was not attending social functions just before his dealth as they later discovered that he died due to depression.

Just while digging deep into the cause of Tunmishe’s death, his friends, one after the other discovered that they were also victims of what the deceased went through.

Demilade, another character, thought of commiting suicide because of his fake lifestyle of acquiring loans to live a life of affluence, in his quest to give his wife and children a better life.

The financial institutions where he got the loans plan to confisticate his properties.

Another character lost his self esteem due to his inability to cater for his family while his wife takes over his responsibilities of paying major bills in the family.

Due to this, he no longer gained erection whenever he wants to have intimacy with his wife.

Also, Ken, a medical doctor, got frustrated because as much as he tried to satisfy his family, everyone failed to appreciate him.

Speaking after the performance, Awakan said the play was a call to action for men to start speaking up whenever they were going through any form of depression or maltreatment.

He encouraged women to also cultivate the habit of pampering their men, hugging them and deliberately guiding them against depression.

He said according to a research he conducted, 70 per cent of the cause of depression in men was connected to women related issues, their wives , mothers or sisters.

He noted that the society had a lot to do for the men.

“It’s a story that has caused many men to leave the surface of this earth. It’s a story of how we can avoid this death out of the fact that we bottle up a lot as men. This is a cultural factor.

“While we were growing up, the idea that was put in our mind is that as boys, as men, we have to be courageous, we have to be strong. We don’t have to show to the public that we are timid or that we are weak.

“And because of that, when we’re going through some challenges, no matter how small or big, we bottle them up and we don’t speak up.We don’t cry out to people. And when it gets to a level, it becomes depression.

“The World Health Organisation’ statistics report says that men die by suicide twice as women. So, we feel this is our way of adding to the discourse of saying this has to stop, the silence has to stop, men need to speak up.

“Check on your fellow men. Appreciate your fellow men. Let them know that what they are going through, they are not going through it alone. And they need to be hugged, they need to be smiled to and they need to be appreciated,” he said.

Awakan said the play would be converted to a movie before the next edition of World Mental Health Day.

Also speaking, Ifeanyi Eziukwu, the Director of the play, said it deliberately highlights the essence of hugs, advising men to always hug one another, as it is therapeutic.

“It was very, very challenging doing this. I had to immerse myself into each character. It was a rush of emotions for me at different points.

“And it was mentally draining, it was crazy.

“Every man you see on the streets is going through something, do your best not to add to their problem, do your best, even if it’s a hug, a smile or something,” he said.

Ramanujam Rummy, Executive Director, The Happiness Centre, a stress and anxiety management firm, explained to the audience how to differnciate a healthy mind from an unhealthy one.

“If you can let go of things quickly, it means your mind is healthy, but, if your mind is holding on for a long time, that means it needs a little attention.

“Hygiene for the mind is important. The way we go out and we come back, you see, there is always a little dirt on the face, on the hands, similarly, all our interactions through the day leaves some residue in our mind which needs to be removed,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) on Wednesday called for the mandatory use of life jackets by people on waterways and adherence to other safety rules.

Mr Nkereuwem Onung, National President of FTAN, during an interactive session with the media in Lagos, said that the association was worried about the recent boat mishaps in Lagos and Niger states.

Onung said it was disheartening to know that the boat mishaps could have been avoided as some passengers refused to use life jackets while another boat was overloaded.

He said constant careless attitude of ignoring safety rules on the waterways would hinder the nation from making headway in grooming its marine tourism economy like other nations of the world.

He sympathised with the families of those who lost their lives as he advised boat operators and Nigerians generally to always adhere to safety rules on the waterways.

“FTAN is worried over certain developments in the tourism sector. It is absolutely wrong to go on a boat without life jackets. Safety rules on Nigeria’s waterways should be strictly adhered to.

“Putting into consideration that boat operators are our members, we want government and boat operators to be proactive in ensuring all form of negligence is curtailed on the waterways.

“Government and the private sector operators should come together to uphold safety rules to bring about economic prosperity to the nation.

“This economic prosperity can only be achieved through frequent use of the waterways for trade, tourism and transportation.

“When we continue to record cases of boat mishaps, local and international tourists will be discouraged from exploring our waterways and there is huge money to be made on the water,” he said.

Onung advised state governments to work on ensuring the needed infrastructure are in place on the waterways as he commended the Lagos State government for taking the lead.

He said his recent journey from Lagos to Port Novo, in Benin Republic, was an eye opener to the fact that Lagos state had done a lot on the waterways but more needed to be done.

He commended the cordial relationship between the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA).

He also commended the boat operators for their resilience in developing the Nigerian marine economy thus far.

He said government at different levels needed to work in synergy with boat operators to boost the huge marine tourism economy in Nigeria.

“Please, as boat operators, let’s not operate outside the known rules, we should be concerned about encouraging tourists to explore our waterways and not scare them by these boat mishaps.

“Nigeria’s waterways is still under-utilised. The destination Lagos is well developed for tourism, we just need the right infrastructure on water to aid tourism activities.

“Nigerians’ purchasing power is now minimal in other countries, so, let us encourage one another to unwind within the country as we also encourage water tourism,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Ganiyu Balogun, National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), explained the unfortunate incident that led to the recent boat mishaps.

Balogun, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Tarzan Boat, said, “it is disheartening to know that some passengers can be so careless and stubborn, not to use their life jackets before going on water, even after being told the implications.”

He, however, advised Nigerians to always abide by the stipulated safety rules on the waterways.

He also advised boat operators across the country against making any trip on the waterways beyond 6.00 p.m, as it could be dangerous.

He noted that though government was trying in terms of putting in place the needed infrastructure on the waterways but there were still insufficient navigation signs.

Also, Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), advised boat operators on the need to always reel out safety tips to passengers before embarking a trip from the jetty.

Mustapha said this would always guide tourists, travellers or boat users on the neccesary things to be done whenever they find themselves in life threatening situation while on board on the waterways.

“Just as we have air hostesses intimate travellers on safety rules before an aircraft takes off, this should be replicated in the case of water transport as well.

“Boat operators should ensure this is done so that victims of boat mishaps can be knowledgeable on what to do in such dangerous circumstances,” she said.

Mr Tope Fajemirokun, National President, Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN), reiterated the association’s commitment toward changing the narrative on Nigeria’s waterways through annual training of boat operators, drivers and jetty operators. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

Mrs Lola Ade-John, Minister of Tourism has promised to collaborate with the members of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), to promote Nigeria’s tourism sites, landmarks and diverse cultural heritage.

Ade-John made the pledge when she received Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), at her office in Abuja, on Friday.

She expressed excitement at NATOP’s focal intention to visit the entire stretch of the country’s vast landscape.

She said it was impressive for the association to under study, package and promote the various tourism, hospitality, festivals and heritage offerings associated with the Nigerian people to the world and to Nigerians in particular.

“We shall partner together and I do assure you of my ministry support and encouragement.

“Going forward, we shall endeavour to invite and carry your association along in whatever we are going to do.

“We need you to furnish us with a list of your accredited members and when we are going to present the tourism policy, which we think we needed to review, we shall invite NATOP to look at it and further add value to the document,” she said.

On fund support for NATOP activities and facilitating efforts to showcase Nigeria at the upcoming World Travel Market( WTM), the minister said that the ministry was working around tourism budget which currently cannot help drive the many pending tourism projects of the ministry.

She said this may impact on the ministry’s participation at the global tourism trade event this year in London.

She noted that at the next budgetry release in 2025, Nigeria will take giant steps to showcase her tourism offerings to the world.

“We are constrained financially for now and can’t do much but hopefully by next year budget, we should have done our home work well.

“And I assure you that we are going to do many tourism projects together because what you did during the World Tourism Day in Lagos, was the way to go in promoting Nigeria which is very dear to my heart, she said

The NATOP President, who visited the minister in company of her deputy, Ms Geraldine Itoe, had earlier briefed the minister on the association’s plans to intentionally market Nigeria’s rich tourism assets.

She also spoke on their intention to participate at the World Travel Market.

She said the association would be working on reinventing the strategic socioeconomic importance of tourism economy to job creation and empowerment of the people.

According to her, this would be with focus on improving Nigeria’s global ranking as a destination to visit in Africa.

“We are here to assure you and the ministry of our partnership and collaboration to market Nigeria’s diverse offerings cutting across cultural heritage, ecological tourism, hospitality, festivals, and fashion.

“We are interested in sharing our knowledge concerning Nigerian tourism policy and other industry related concerns, which would help reposition our tourism within the domestic and international space

“We have started looking inwards, and in weeks or months to come, NATOP will embark on project rediscover Nigeria.

“And with it, we will glavernise the states and local authorities and the Nigerian people to think Nigerian culture and tourism first. Nigeria tourism is important to us, and we want to have your ministry’s backing in this noble effort,” she said.

By Taiye Olayemi

The BIGWIL International Community of CEOs and Diplomatic Forum, under the aegis of the International Human Rights Observatory – Africa (IHRO-Africa), has appointed Daniel Chukwuka Koussou as the Chairman, Nigeria chapter.

Prof Adamu Shaffa, National Secretary, IHRO-Africa, who disclosed this in a statement, on Tuesday, said Koussou was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Economic Diplomacy, Trade, and Investment for its Nigeria Chapter.

Shaffa said that Koussou a distinguished diplomat and global leader, will lead critical discussions on economic diplomacy, trade, and investment, highlighting Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage.

He said Koussou as the Chief Executive Officer of Dau-O-Gik Oil and Gas, he would brings extensive experience in the oil and gas industry.

He said Koussou’s leadership and vision are set to inspire meaningful dialogues about Nigeria’s economic potential and its vital role in international relations.

“The Nigeria Chapter of the BIGWIL International Community of CEOs and Diplomatic Forum, rooted in the core values of vision, integrity, and leadership will serve as a strategic platform for CEOs, diplomats, and investors to engage in high-level discussions.

“The forum will promote cross-border partnerships, investment opportunities, and innovations aimed at fostering economic growth in Nigeria and Africa, while also strengthening their presence in the global business community.

“Under the leadership of Ambassador Daniel Chukwuka Koussou, the committee will ensure the success of this initiative, advancing both Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic diplomacy and opening doors to new international opportunities.

“Koussou is recognised as one of the most successful youth leaders in his field, serving as a powerful example of visionary leadership in both diplomacy and business.

“Moreover, young CEOs will be provided with a unique platform through the Nigeria Chapter to engage in international economic diplomacy, trade, and investment,” he said.

According to him, the initiative would empower the next generation of business leaders to forge global partnerships, drive innovation, and contribute to Africa’s economic transformation on the world stage.

By Taiye Olayemi

The National Arts Theater is unlocking infinite possibilities for creativity, innovation, and cultural expression, says its General Manager, Mrs Tola Akerele.

Akerele said this during the 48th anniversary celebration of the Theatre on Monday in Lagos, with the theme: “Rebranding Boundless Opportunities”.

She said the National Arts Theatre had been positioned to host world-class performances, festivals and events.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Arts Theatre, built in 1976, is the primary centre for the performing arts.

NAN also reports that the Theatre shares the same architectural design as the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna, Bulgaria.

“This is a moment of rebirth for the National Theatre. We are turning a new page and embracing a future that is not only brighter but also limitless in potential.

“With the extensive restoration of this facility, we are not just restoring a building, we are unlocking infinite possibilities for creativity, innovation, and cultural expression.

“The theatre is now positioned to host world-class performances, festivals, and events that will once again place Nigeria at the forefront of the global cultural stage.

“As we embark on this new journey, we must remember that the power of art and culture lies in its ability to transcend boundaries.

“To all artists, performers, directors, and producers, I urge you to take full advantage of this new era. Let your creativity soar. Let your ideas flourish.

“The National Theatre stands ready to support your vision and help you bring your work to life,” she said.

Akerele described the National Arts Theatre as an embodiment of the dreams, aspirations, and creative spirit of the Nigerian people.

She said: “Today’s theme, “Rebranding Boundless Opportunities”, speaks to a profound moment of renewal in the life of the National Theatre.

“The building, which many of you are gazing upon, is not just the tangibility of its structure of steel, bricks, and mortar.

“It is the embodiment of the dreams, aspirations, and creative spirit of the Nigerian people which are intangible in that they cannot be seen at a glance and therefore boundless in possibilities.”

Akerele appreciated the past general managers of the National Arts Theatre for their contributions toward upholding the tourist site.

“It is only right that we pause to acknowledge the contributions of those who have come before us.

“I wish to pay special tribute to the past General Managers of the National Theatre, both living and departed.

“Their leadership, vision, and hard work sustained this institution through challenging times. To those who have passed on, we honour your memory and foundation you laid.

“I also wish to extend heartfelt gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to the preservation and revival of this national treasure.

“Also, the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who is a steadfast advocate, ensuring that the theatre continues to thrive and serve as a beacon of cultural heritage.

“We owe you a great debt of gratitude,” she said.

“Equally, we are indebted to the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Bankers Committee for their transformative role in the restoration of the National Theatre.

“Your bold vision and financial support has given this institution a new lease on life.

“Because of your efforts, we stand here today on the verge of an exciting new chapter, one filled with boundless opportunities.

“As we celebrate today, I invite you all to look toward the future with optimism and ambition.

“The National Theatre is once again a place where dreams can be realised, where talents can be nurtured, and boundless opportunities await.”

Hajia Kaltume Bulama-Gana, Artistic Director, National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN), congratulated the management of the National Arts Theatre.

Bulama-Gana assured Nigerians of NTN’s readiness to begin to stage beautiful performances at the National Theater as soon as it is ready for use.

Also, Mr Israel Eboh, National President, National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners, said, “The attainment of the 48th anniversary is no small feat, we congratulate you for keeping National Theatre alive.

“NANTAP and the National Theatre share the same umbilical cord, NANTAP evolved from National Theatre, it remains our home and you have been a great host.

“This celebration shows the commitment of the staff of the National Theatre to the growth of the creative industry, we will continue to collaborate and support your programmes.”

Meanwhile, Chief Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), congratulated the National Theatre for standing tall over the years.

Ajiboye, who was represented by Mrs Victoria Overo, Lagos State Director for NICO, said the institute looked forward to the Theatre’s golden jubilee celebration in two years.

The highlight of the event was the beautiful and inspiring performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria, The Footprint of David, Black Edge Productions and others.