The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Yoruba community marks cultural day

    Yoruba community marks cultural day

    The Yoruba Community in Enugu State has celebrated its 2025 Cultural Day with a strong call for deeper cultural integration and national cohesion among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

    Held at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, New Haven, Enugu, the event, anchored on the theme Cultural Integration and Exchange: A Veritable Tool for National Unity and Cohesion, attracted traditional rulers from Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states, Yoruba cultural associations, students, community leaders and political stakeholders.

    The celebration featured colourful cultural dances from various Yoruba age groups, traditional music, and displays that highlighted the rich heritage of the Yoruba nation.

    Leader of the Yoruba Community in Enugu State, Oba Engr. Isiaka A. Salmon, Ilufemiloye I, said the gathering was not just a cultural display but a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s unity through diversity.

    He described culture as the “memory and value system that shapes collective identity,” adding that meaningful cultural exchange builds bridges and eliminates suspicion among ethnic groups.

    “In a land blessed with over 250 ethnic groups… we are a masterpiece designed by God’s own hands,” the monarch said. “When cultures meet in mutual respect, a nation finds its soul and direction.”

    Citing national icons such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chinua Achebe, and Obafemi Awolowo, Oba Salmon stressed that unity must go beyond rhetoric.

    READ ALSO: Banditry: Sheikh Gumi strikes again!

    He also congratulated the beneficiaries of the community’s scholarship scheme, which expanded from five recipients in its first batch to 20 in the current cycle.

    “Kindly make use of this rare opportunity with all seriousness. Our partners increased the slots because the first batch performed excellently,” he said.

    The royal father praised Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as “innovative, inclusive and transformative governance,” while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steering the country with “bold and futuristic reforms.”

    Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Anthony Onovo, described the cultural celebration as an opportunity for the Yoruba community to reconnect with its heritage while strengthening ties with their Igbo hosts.

    He highlighted the importance of cultural pride, community service and integration.

    “Today, we gather to celebrate our heritage and the unity that binds us. From the rhythms of dùndún to the elegance of àdìrẹ, our culture speaks of beauty and resilience,” Justice Onovo said.

    Quoting an Igbo proverb, “Ebe onye bi ka ọ na-awachi” (It is where you reside that you must protect), he urged Yoruba residents in Enugu to contribute actively to the progress of the state.

    The state caretaker committee chairman of APC in Enugu State, Dr. Ben Nwoye, hailed Yoruba community for their peaceful coexistence in Enugu, which is a testament to their community’s values and their unwavering commitment to harmony.

    “During these decades, your contributions to the development of Enugu State have been nothing short of immense and multifaceted.

    “From the bustling marketplaces to the quiet corridors of academia, the indelible mark of the Yoruba community is evident. We have observed, with admiration, your entrepreneurial spirit and your dedication to excellence across various sectors,” he said.

    Nwoye urged the Yoruba community to take advantage of their growing population in the state by participating more actively in local politics.

    “As we enter the election year, please get your PVCs and influence decisions. We look forward to the day a Yoruba man will become a councillor or member of the Enugu State House of Assembly,” Nwoye said.

    He recalled that a Hausa man served as the first Mayor of Enugu before independence, stressing that diversity has always enriched the Coal City.

    The ceremony also recognised distinguished Nigerians with meritorious awards for contributing to national development, while the scholarship segment provided financial support to deserving undergraduates of different ethnic backgrounds.

    The event closed with a renewed pledge by the Yoruba community to deepen cultural exchange, promote peaceful coexistence and support development efforts in Enugu State and Nigeria as a whole.

  • Rare treasures of Nigerian heritage

    Rare treasures of Nigerian heritage

    By Uzordinma Esther C

    Nigeria is a culturally vibrant nation with diverse ethnic groups and has about 250 languages, which have been documented as being spoken. The richness of Nigeria’s present sculptural styles is rooted in ancient artistic traditions. These wonderful archaeological and ethnographical collections helped to show that there was a civilization in this country before external influences on our culture, technology and societal issues.

    Our treasure, our asset is the cultural heritage of the past inhabitants which depicts the African ideas, philosophy and psychology as an African man, Nigeria in particular. It has a great cultural heritage which shows indigenous technology of the people that produced them. For we not to lose all, Mr. K.C Murray in 1943 did what is called rescue operation by stopping illegal traffickers to stop taking away our treasure because losing it all is like a country without history and foundation. He did this by purchasing these wonderful and enduring artworks of Nigeria (old era), which is our today’s asset because it has revealed the truly frame work of Nigeria history in the world heritage map or record. For the world to see these objects, he established museums to harness, protect and create awareness of what we have for the future generations.

    NOK culture or terracotta objects was dated about 500BC – 200AD and was the earliest sculptural tradition in Sub-Sahara Africa, found at NOK, Jemma, etc. in Kaduna state in 1928 by miners. Later more collections were made by Mr. Bernard Fagg in 1944. NOK provides the earliest evidence of the molding of naturalistic work in West Africa and it shows the ideology, worries and philosophy of the people.

    Igboukwu bronze object was dated between 9th AD – 10th AD (century) and was the earliest bronze casting tradition in Sub Sahara Africa, found at the compound of three brothers in 1938 named: Igbo Jonah, Igbo Richard and Igbo Isaiah. Igbo Jonah site; which several copper alloys was uncovered at the site. Igbo Richard site; revealed the cultural way of burial rite of a chief priest in Igbo culture. Igbo Isaiah site; the objects found there suggested that it was a ritual site, in a village called Igboukwu near Akwa in Anambra state scientifically excavated by professor Thurstan Shaw and others in 1959.

    READ ALSO: Rewarding Amuka

    Ife Art: was expressed in copper and copper alloy. Terracotta, stone and beads was dated between 12th – 15th centuries. Ife is a city in Osun state and a religious center of the Yoruba people. The founder named Oduduwa and was said to have sixteen children who later formed many communities at different places and Ife king was titled Ooni. Ife Art discovered by Landers, John and Richard which Leo Frobenius discovered more Ife Art in 1910. The collections were often naturalistic and probably for memorial or glorification of the past Ooni, queens and some of the attendants in the palace.

    Owo Art: Come mainly in terracotta and wood dated 15th century, according to William Fagg in 1951 and history of the people states that they migrated from Ife to Owo during the 12th century, which archaeological excavations was conducted at the site of Igbolaja near Okitisegbo in Owo revealed evidence that supports the story that they migrated from Ife and the overlay of Benin influence on Owo. (Ekpo Eyo in 1972, 1974, 1976). Owo is a city in Ondo state, located between Ife and Benin city. The Owo facial scarifications are bolder and more widely spread than that of Ife and their objects was for sacrifice/ritual probably for appeasement.

    Benin Art: was dated between 15th to 19th century and was made of Bronze, Wood, Bead and Ivory. Benin Art was popularly referred to as cult art because its highly monopolized by the king (Oba). Benin Art was used for glorification of their kings and their gods and they also use them to immortalize the dead royal ancestors and represent the history of their dynasty. Benin was a civilized city in Edo state that had contact with the Europeans and they also established trade with the Portuguese within the period 15th century.

    Esie Art: Nobody knows the origin of these images, the makers, and what has happened, it was accidentally found by a hunter named Baragbon. The sculptures show the ideology and philosophy of the people they are artistic in nature. According to scientific explanation, the soapstone figures of Esie are the largest collection of stone carvings in Sub-Sahara Africa and they are about one thousand soapstone sculptures representing human beings possibly ancestors and some are beaded, seated and wearing a great variety of headdresses and hairstyle which depicts royalty and affluence. Exhibits in Esie museum since 1945, the first museum so far. Esie town is located about 50 km South-East of Ilorin in Kwara state.

    Tada Art: Tada bronze figures are works of arts and the largest cast bronze and copper works in Sub-Sahara Africa, found in Tada, Niger state. Also, it is the most monumental bronzes in Black Africa dated 12th-16th century (AD). The origin and context of these monumental bronzes was unknown but according to oral tradition, Tsoede was the legendary founder of Nupe kingdom. It is located in the middle belt of Nigeria, in Niger state.

    Calabar Art: It was expressed in wood and terracotta with Nsibidi motifs, according to scientific research Nsibidi was the earliest indigenous writing system in old Calabar region that is still in use today by many cultures throughout the Cross River region dated between 15th and 16th AD. Nsibidi motifs include multitude of abstract of linear and curvilinear shapes such as concentric circles, spirals, stars, cruciform, zigzagging, arrow heads, etc. It was adapted by nature and was a system of recording, hiding and conveying knowledge used by members of various men’s and women’s association. Nsibidi may be drawn on human skin, painted on the walls of building, inscribed with chalk on the ground, incised on calabashes, printed on textiles such as the Ukara cloth worn by Leopard Society members (Ekpe cult). The terracotta of Calabar shows us the ideographic language and provides archaeological evidence that body decoration is indeed an ancient practice in the region. Also, it was known that if you are not a member of the society, they will not reveal or tell you the full knowledge or the meaning of the signs.

    Nsibidi was the oldest West Africa writing system dated 3,500 B.C. All these are some of the master pieces which show the ideology, cares and worries of the society that produced them and has produced the bulk of the archaeological evidence used in the reconstruction of Archaeological Framework of Nigeria.

    *Uzordinma is of the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos

  • Odi hosts Ogori Ba Uge festival

    Odi hosts Ogori Ba Uge festival

    The Odi community in Bayelsa State is gearing up for the 69th edition of its annual Odi Ogori Ba Uge Festival, scheduled to hold from July 27 to August 2, 2026. The announcement was made at a pre-festival media and marketing luncheon held in Lagos, where organisers outlined plans for an expanded celebration that will blend culture, tourism, entertainment, and heritage preservation.

    The Odi Ogori Ba Uge Festival, translated as the “Festival of Victory over a Buffalo in Odi,” commemorates the historic event of July 27, 1957, when residents united to kill a destructive buffalo that had terrorised the community. What began as a thanksgiving has grown into a major cultural carnival that attracts indigenes, tourists, and culture enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.

    With an expected attendance of more than 100,000 visitors, next year’s edition will feature its signature attractions: the Boat Regatta, Love Boat cruise, War Boat display, traditional wrestling, masquerade performances, and a rich offering of Ijaw cuisine. Organisers say the 2026 celebration will emphasise spectacle, creativity, and an immersive cultural experience.

    Festival consultant, Israel Eboh, described the annual event as a vibrant showcase of the Niger Delta’s aquatic culture. He noted that elements such as the Love Boat, famous for its blend of music, dance, and culinary treats continue to draw high anticipation each year.

    He added that the War Boat display symbolises Odi’s historical strength and communal bravery, while plans are underway to expand the beachfront to accommodate a growing audience.

    READ ALSO: Banditry: Sheikh Gumi strikes again!

    Eboh also hinted at wider global visibility for the festival through live streaming, celebrity engagements, and increased digital engagement, which he said will help amplify the festival’s message of unity and resilience.

    Director-General Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Olayiwola Awakan, stressed the importance of cultural preservation and tourism as key drivers of national development.

    He urged Nigerians to take ownership of their cultural narratives. “Let’s tell our story. Nobody will do it for us,” he said, encouraging stronger collaboration between public and private stakeholders to elevate festivals such as Odi’s.

    Awakan described tourism as one of the country’s most sustainable economic assets, saying it holds long-term potential for job creation and youth engagement. He called for a repackaging of the Odi festival to strengthen its appeal to younger generations.

    Chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, Ebi Udisi, described the Odi Ogori Ba Uge Festival as a people driven celebration that has endured for nearly seven decades due to communal ownership and unity of purpose.

    He explained that hosting the pre-festival engagement in Lagos was strategic, aimed at attracting corporate partners and sponsors.

    According to him, digital platforms will play a central role in widening the festival’s reach in 2026.  “We want to make it even more global. The festival tells the story of our people their resilience, their victory, and their unity,” Udisi said.

    He appealed for partnerships that will help transform the festival into a world-class tourism brand while preserving Ijaw culture for future generations.

    Beyond its cultural significance, the festival also serves as a homecoming for the Ijaw people, fostering peace, reconciliation, and economic activity within the Niger Delta. Odi’s history of resilience especially following the 1999 military invasion, adds deeper meaning to the annual celebration. Organisers say the festival’s official theme for the 2026 edition will be announced early next year.

  • Edo community sustains self-help development

    Edo community sustains self-help development

    Residents of Sobe community in Owan-West Local Government Area of Edo State, in a landmark moment of civic pride and collective aspiration recently converged to witness the groundbreaking ceremony of its N100million ultra-modern Civic Centre, an ambitious initiative positioned to redefine social engagement, cultural exchange and community development in the town.

    The event brought together community elders, development partners, stakeholders and residents in an ecstatic atmosphere that reflected both gratitude and expectation. The ceremony, which was held at St. Stephen’s School Playground, Sobe, was spiced with cultural performances by the Igoro Osi Cultural Troupe.

    His Royal Highness Anthony Ero Aleburu, the Odibiado of Sobe, commended the selfless efforts of the project committee recalling that most developmental projects in the community have been achieved through self-help championed by illustrious sons and daughters of Sobe. He cited projects such as Sobe High School, Post Office, Police Station, Town Hall and Primary Health Centre as examples. He lamented the lack of government presence in the community until its merger with Edo state in September 1991. 

    While paying tributes to some heroes of the community for their selfless services, the Odibiado assured that the Civic Centre must be a reality. “My dear people of Uhebe, let us continue with the spirit of unity of purpose in order to develop our dear community,” he urged the people. 

    READ ALSO: Rewarding Amuka

    Chairman, Sobe Civic Center Initiative, Pastor Joseph Omozoje described the new civic centre as ‘more than a building, but a symbol of our shared identity,’ emphasizing that the centre will function as a nucleus for cultural preservation, economic empowerment and intergenerational connection. Anchoring his remarks on values of trust, integrity and collective responsibility, he encouraged citizens to embrace selflessness and unity, quoting inspirational figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela to affirm the transformative power of service and communal effort. He added that with faith in God and belief in their own capacity, the people of Sobe are ‘shaping their destiny and building a future that honours both their heritage and their dreams.’

    Reflecting on the resilience required to achieve this milestone, he noted that while many doubted the feasibility of such a project, the unity and determination of the community “moved mountains,” paving the way to this historic beginning.

    “As we take this momentous step forward, let us inspire one another to actively participate in nation-building and development. Each of us has a role to play, and every contribution, no matter how small, counts. Let us be the change we wish to see in our community, embodying the values of service, compassion, and dedication.

    This Civic Center represents far more than bricks and mortar. It embodies our collective vision for a prosperous Sobe where our children and future generations will thrive. As we break ground today, we are planting seeds that will blossom into a hub of cultural exchange, education, economic empowerment, and social cohesion,” he added.

    Continuing, he said: “Let me speak directly to the significance of what we are building together. This center will serve as a sanctuary where our rich cultural heritage can be preserved and celebrated. It will be a place where our elders can pass down wisdom to our youth, where traditional knowledge meets modern innovation, and where the soul of Sobe continues to flourish.

    This project also teaches us an important lesson about self-reliance. While we appreciate external support, we have demonstrated that we possess the capacity to initiate and drive our own development. This sense of ownership ensures sustainability and fosters dignity within our community.

    When completed, this Civic Center will stand as a testament to what is possible when we believe in ourselves and work together with purpose. It will inspire neighboring communities and show that grassroots development initiatives, driven by local leadership and participation, can transform societies.”

    Expressing his optimism, Omozoje assurted that the future of Sobe is bright and ‘it is in our hands. And together, with God’s guidance, we will build not just a Civic Center, but a community that stands as a beacon of hope, unity, and progress.’

    In his goodwill message, Mr. Ozolua Kally Uhakheme, a founding member of the project committee and Assistant Editor with The Nation newspaper, commended the spirit of persistence and self-reliance that has defined Sobe’s development history. He recalled that during the project’s conceptual stage, many dismissed it as unrealistic, even labeling it a ‘white elephant project.’ But, the groundbreaking ceremony, he said, is a proof of what communal vision and faith can achieve.

    Tracing Sobe’s age-long tradition of self-help driven infrastructural advancement dating back to the 1960s, Uhakheme said that sustainable growth must come from within calling for unity across religious and political divides.

    He acknowledged the contributions of every donor and supporter particularly Pastor Joseph Omozoje, praising his leadership and personal sacrifices in coordinating the project. “One thing that gladdens my heart about this project is the fact that everyone is a donor, promoter, supporter and marketer of it,” he said. 

    Uhakheme affirmed that ‘by this time next year, by His grace, we shall return to sing the full Hallelujah.’

    Mr. Martins Ige Ilegoma who represented Sobe People’s Progressive Association, Abuja, described the civic centre as ‘the physical manifestation of our shared aspirations and community spirit.’ He said the project represents the community’s collective commitment to creating a space that all residents can be proud of-a vibrant hub for gathering, learning, cultural expression and civic participation.

    He expressed optimism that the centre will stand as a reminder of what Sobe can accomplish through collaboration, solidarity and shared vision, adding that the project will promote local development, civic participation and long-term prosperity.

    As work officially began with the turning of the sod by the Odibiado of Sobe and Pastor Omozoje, the mood in Sobe remains that of optimism and collective triumph. The ceremony was preceded by prayers by several clergymen followed by handshakes, embraces and renewed commitment from all stakeholders. The coming months will see the transformation ground zero into a landmark structure destined to become a heartbeat of communal life one that future generations will inherit with pride.

  • Nigerians to miss favourites channels on Dstv

    Nigerians to miss favourites channels on Dstv

    Following plans by Netflix to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming assets in a deal valued at $82.7 billion, including debt, thousands of Nigerian subscribers will miss their favourite channels on Dstv. According to The New York Times, 11 Warner Bros. Discovery channels will exit its DStv platform when their distribution deal expires on December 31, 2025. The transaction is expected to close by the third quarter of 2026. Among the favourite channels to be missed by Nigerians are CNN International, Food Network and Cartoon Network among others. Already, the impending sale has sent ripples through the global media landscape.

    READ ALSO: Rewarding Amuka

    “Together, we can give audiences more of what they love and help define the next century of storytelling,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-chief executive, said in a statement. Industry reports previously indicated that Netflix, the company credited with transforming at-home movie streaming and now boasting more than 300 million subscribers, was well-positioned to win the bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery, beating out Paramount and Comcast.

    Netflix’s pitch reportedly included a pledge to maintain theatrical releases for Warner Bros. Discovery films, a surprising concession given Netflix’s longstanding preference for bypassing cinemas for most of its titles.

    If approved by federal regulators, the acquisition will make Warner Bros. Discovery the first major legacy Hollywood studio to be absorbed by a Silicon Valley rival. The impending sale has already sent ripples through the global media landscape.

  • Continental Hotel unveils Festive Season Escape

    Continental Hotel unveils Festive Season Escape

    With Detty December celebration already in full swing in Lagos, one of the leading hospitality groups, the Continental Hotel Group in Lagos and Abuja, is unveiling exciting packages for its clients this Christmas season.

    According to a statement by the Cluster Director of Marketing, Continental Hotel Group, Mr. Richards Mutanda the twin city festive season escape will include exclusive accommodation packages, gourmet dining experiences, and joyful activities for families. It commenced with a Christmas Mystery Tree Lighting ceremony at its lobby last Thursday.

    The tree lighting ceremony witnessed by the hotel’s in-house guests and some high-profile personalities, featured choir renditions, while also transforming the Lobby Café into a Christmas boutique as well as marking the return of Ginger Tree House with festive treats and Macallan Bar shelves with a generous showcase of boutique holiday gifts.

    He assured that though there are limited rooms for the Lagos hotel’s festive accommodation package, but that special rates for Christmas and New Year stays are available upon request.

    Speaking on the specially curated festive food and beverage offerings at the Lagos hotel, he said they include Santa Brunch at the Ekaabo Restaurant on December 21, to Christmas Day Brunch also at Ekaabo and to New Year’s Eve Crossover on December 31 at Sugar 52, the hotel is promising an enthralling experience for the guests.

    READ ALSO: Banditry: Sheikh Gumi strikes again!

    He noted that the festive food and beverage offerings are inclusive of Champagne, canapés, buffet, live BBQ, fire show, and late-night entertainment. For the Abuja hotel, there is an early bird Christmas offer on accommodation from December 19, 2025 – January 10, 2026.

    Mutanda disclosed that rooms are available at giveaway rates per night, inclusive of breakfast for two adults and two children under 12 years at the Obudu Grill.

    “The festive food and beverage offerings at the Abuja hotel will commence on December 21, with brunch at the Obudu Grill Restaurant, and will be followed by lunch and dinner on the 24th at the same restaurant.

    “Christmas Day brunch and Boxing Day lunch and dinner will run on December 25th and 26th respectively at the Obudu Grill.

    “The excitement will be heightened on December 31st at the poolside with dinner and the chef’s special and Champagne toast, while the new year will be welcomed with brunch and dinner as well on January 1, 2026, he added.

    The family is not left out of the pack as there are activities such as sip & paint, creative workshops, and exclusive access to the Children’s Fun Village, Mutanda assured guests of memorable experiences at the group’s two hotels.

  • Flyzone boss to Nigerians: beware of fake work visas

    Flyzone boss to Nigerians: beware of fake work visas

    The Chief Executive Officer Flyzone Tourism, Mr. Ayodeji Awomoyi has cautioned Nigerians on the rising travel scams, especially fake work visa offers that have continued to defraud unsuspecting citizens across the country.

    He said it was important for travel consultants and the general public to understand that there is no such thing as a direct work visa for Canada, Germany, Australia or New Zealand, describing such promises as outright fraud. He urged Nigerians to stop paying millions of naira for offers that do not exist, emphasising that the trend has become a major source of exploitation for many young people seeking opportunities abroad.

    Awomoyi who spoke at the Flyzone appreciation event held at the weekend in Lagos, disclosed that only 400 guests were selected for the event even though Flyzone currently works with over 8,000 consultants nationwide. He said the company could not logistically host all its partners in one gathering and appealed to those whose friends felt left out, noting that the limitation was strictly based on capacity. Many consultants travelled in from Abuja, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Ife and Owerri to attend the celebration, which became one of the most vibrant industry events of the season.

    The Flyzone boss used the moment to express deep gratitude to the travel consultants who have contributed to the company’s growth from its early days as Africa’s leading Dubai visa processor. He recalled the period when Flyzone handled more than 100 visa applications daily and airlines were shocked that almost everyone travelling to Dubai had processed their visa through the company. Awomoyi credited that success entirely to the consultants in the room, saying the company’s strength came from the trust they consistently placed in Flyzone. He shared stories of consultants who transferred tens of millions of naira in advance and allowed the company to hold the funds for months, deducting gradually as applications arose. According to him, that level of confidence was the backbone on which Flyzone was built.

    READ ALSO: Rewarding Amuka

    On the recent surge in fraudulent agencies, he referenced the widely discussed TNT Travels case in Owerri, urging professionals to conduct proper checks before partnering any company. Awomoyi advised consultants to ask specific referral questions such as whether an agency genuinely handles certain visas, rather than general questions about familiarity.

    He stressed that clarity and due diligence were essential in an industry that has become increasingly vulnerable to manipulation.

    The evening was not all business, as the event transformed into a lively atmosphere filled with music, comedy, karaoke and African cuisine. Music star Oritse Femi thrilled the audience with an energetic performance, while comedian Danfo-S kept the room lively with jokes that sent guests laughing throughout. The karaoke segment drew enthusiastic participation from travel consultants and guests who took turns grabbing the microphone for both impressive and humorous performances. The culinary experience became another highlight of the night, with a wide spread of African dishes ranging from jollof rice, asun, pepper soup, grilled fish, suya and traditional soups, creating what many described as a mini African gastronomy festival.

    Awomoyi praised his staff for what he called their unmatched discipline and commitment, revealing that Flyzone operates a three-second response time and an unusual 3:00 a.m. resumption culture that he believes strengthens their efficiency. He joked that a Flyzone staff member could outperform a Microsoft employee in responsiveness, a remark that drew applause and laughter from the audience. He thanked his wife for her patience and support, noting that the demands of the job often require him to attend to clients at odd hours, even when the conversations have nothing to do with travel.

    The event ended with renewed optimism for stronger collaboration between Flyzone and Nigeria’s community of travel consultants, with Awomoyi expressing confidence that the coming year would bring deeper partnerships, more innovation and continued growth for the sector.

  • SNA honours Oshinowo, Shyllon, others

    SNA honours Oshinowo, Shyllon, others

    The celebration of artistic excellence took centre stage as the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) honoured 60 outstanding contributors to Nigerian art at the 8th International Conference on Art and Development (CONADEV 2025), held at the Wings Complex, Oando Towers, Lagos.

    The conference, themed, Creative Economy and Cultural Sustainability: Reimagining Art for Development, honoured practitioners across multiple categories, highlighting the works of veteran artists, emerging talents, patrons, institutions and professional associations.

    Former President of the society, Mr. Kolade Oshinowo received the Meritorious Service Award for his distinguished leadership and commitment to artistic advancement, while foremost collector and philanthropist, Omooba Engr. Yemisi Shyllon was honoured with the African Legacy Art Award for his decades of advocacy and investment in the preservation and propagation of Nigerian art.

    One of the most inspiring honourees was 15-year-old Guinness World Record breaker, Kanyechukwu Tagbo-Okeke, recognised as “Outstanding Young Artist of the Year,” for his record-setting 12,303.87 square-metre canvas painting, a remarkable achievement that surpassed the previous global record.

    National President of SNA, Muhammed Suleiman, said that the honours were meant to recognise exemplary impact.

    “These awards are for our past presidents, individuals promoting art independently through galleries and museums, as well as institutions supporting the sector. Kanyechukwu inspired the nation by breaking a Guinness World Record, and we want young Nigerians to know that artistic excellence is seen and rewarded,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Banditry: Sheikh Gumi strikes again!

    Describing art as an essential seed of national socio-economic advancement, he noted that art drives every aspect of the economy, fashion, design, technology, even artificial intelligence. “The core of AI is creative imagination. Parents must encourage children to embrace creativity. Art is the future,” he added.

    Renowned art collector, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon who expressed gratitude for the award, reflected on his legacy of artistic support.

    “I do not know what I did to deserve this award, but I am deeply honoured. I solely funded the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art by selling several properties abroad and at home. I am happy because it is impacting lives,” he said.

    He revealed that the museum continues to train and empower creatives, including an officer currently on an 18–month residency at the Toledo Museum in Ohio, United States.

    He disclosed plans to unveil a life-size bronze statue of Chief Obafemi Awolowo at OAU, Ile-Ife and sponsorship of a new Guinness World Record attempt for the world’s longest single painting. “I believe wealth is meant to serve humanity. Happiness is in giving, not receiving,” he said.

    Chairman Central Working Committee and SNA Vice President (North), Dr Aondover Gyeawe, described CONADEV as a celebration of artistic influence and intellectual labour.

    “Tonight, we celebrate dedication and impact. CONADEV is not only about ideas, but about recognising those shaping our cultural identity through resilience and creativity,” he said.

    Beyond individuals, the Society also honoured institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, for strengthening art education.

    International organisations honoured included Alliance Française, Goethe Institut, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, and the Spanish Embassy for supporting cultural development and creative exchange.

    Professional bodies such as the Sculptors Association of Nigeria and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria were acknowledged alongside galleries such as Shaky’s Art Gallery in Awka and Herwa Heart of Art Initiative in Kano.

    Veteran artist John Amanam emerged as Distinguished Artist of the Year. Notable personalities conferred Fellowship status for their enduring contributions to art development included scholars, practitioners, and cultural advocates across the nation.

    Past presidents including Prof Osa Egonwa, Prof Funke Ifeta, Kolade Oshinowo, Dele Jegede, and Oliver Enwonwu also received the Meritorious Service Award. Honorary Fellowships were presented to Adewole Tinubu, Alhaji Tashiu Sodangi, Dr Hassan Nasir Aliyu, Rukayat Yusuf and Aliyu Sadiq Ahmed.

    The ceremony formed part of CONADEV 2025’s activities, which brought together artists, academics, curators, cultural leaders, and stakeholders to reflect on the place of art in economic growth and cultural sustainability.

  • Culture, myth take spotlight at launch of The Bone River

    Culture, myth take spotlight at launch of The Bone River

    By Glorious Idowu

    The Lagos literary community turned its spotlight on Ouida Bookstore, Opebi Ikeja Lagos, on penultimate Thursday as writer Nkereuwem Albert unveiled his new urban-fantasy novel, The Bone River.

    The launch drew readers, writers, culture enthusiasts and young creatives who settled in for an evening of book readings, cultural reflection and an engaging conversation with the author.

    The novel, set in present-day Calabar, blends local mythology, matrilineal traditions and spiritual lore with modern storytelling.

    Albert, said the prominence of strong female characters in the book emerged naturally from Calabar’s cultural landscape, where mothers, aunties and grandmothers play defining roles. He explained that his storytelling approach is character-driven, allowing the figures in the book to determine the direction of the plot rather than forcing them into a rigid outline.

    Fielding questions from journalists about his writing process and whether he experienced writer’s block, the author said: “Ceative pauses are part of his routine. I don’t consider it writer’s block, but a part of the creative process. Many times, I would stare at my laptop and wait for hours and nothing comes. Then I know okay, nothing for today.” He added that deadlines actually help him work faster, noting that The Bone River took over two years to complete but would have moved quicker if he had been given a strict timeline.

    Audience members praised the book’s accurate depiction of Calabar’s spiritual symbols, particularly the portrayal of Ndiyam, a revered truth-binding oracle. Others commended the use of rare mythical creatures and the careful handling of cultural references often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

    READ ALSO: Banditry: Sheikh Gumi strikes again!

    Albert further explained that the book’s magic system and fast-paced action sequences were partly inspired by anime, a genre he said explores supernatural abilities with depth and creativity. This influence, he noted, allowed him to craft fight scenes that pull readers into the emotional tension of each moment.

    He also revealed that some characters in the novel were inspired by close friends whose personalities shaped emotional arcs such as those of H and Aphmau. His hope, he said, is that readers from different backgrounds will see aspects of themselves reflected in the journey of the characters.

    The Bone River, now trending among readers across Lagos, is proving to be more than a novel—it is an electrifying adventure for book lovers and enthusiasts seeking fresh storytelling rooted in culture, myth and imagination.

  • Commercial flights begin at Ekiti airport

    Commercial flights begin at Ekiti airport

    After months of spadework and requisite regulatory approval, scheduled commercial flights will begin at Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport in Ado-Ekiti.

    The beginning of flight operations into the new airport, it was learnt, was driven by the rising demand for improved air connectivity, as well as the desire to open a fresh chapter for air travel in the state, in order to provide residents, investors, government officials, students and visitors with a faster, safer and more convenient travel options.

    The flight operations, it was further gathered, supported Ekiti State’s development agenda.

    To consolidate Federal Government’s drive to support air connectivity across the country, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, will today lead a delegation of key stakeholders from the aviation industry, government representatives, leaders, business executives, among others, who will join the inaugural commercial flight from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to Ekiti Agro Allied International Airport.

    Speaking on the development, officials of United Nigeria Airlines said the flight operations marked a milestone in the expansion of air connectivity across Nigeria and reinforced the airline’s commitment to serving emerging routes with growing economic and social importance.

    READ ALSO: Rewarding Amuka

    The inaugural flight, the carrier said, represented a major boost to the state’s economic prospects, providing support for tourism, commerce, agriculture and the creative industry that continued to flourish in the region.

    It said the initiative aligned with United Nigeria Airlines’ strategic vision of linking underserved destinations and enhancing mobility across Nigeria.

    The carrier said in a statement: “We are excited to bring United Nigeria Airlines’ signature warmth and dependable service to the people of Ekiti State. This route will strengthen regional accessibility and create new opportunities for business, leisure and socio-economic growth.

    “United Nigeria Airlines looks forward to serving Ekiti and offering passengers a seamless and comfortable travel experience as it continues to broaden its network across Nigeria.”

    The airline emphasised its commitment to high safety standards, quality customer service and reliable operations across its routes.