After last year’s successful hosting of its maiden edition, Omoge Asa cultural beauty pageant, a unique initiative aimed at promoting and preserving the cultural heritage, norms and values of Yoruba people will hold on April 10, at Lead City University, Ibadan.
The south-western institution culture queen fiesta, the brainchild of Prof Anjola Robbin under the auspices of the Faculty of Arts, Lead City University, is organised in collaboration with Academy Suites. Omoge Asa is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions of the Yoruba nation. According to the convener of the event, Prof Robbin, ‘Omoge Asa is not just a cultural beauty pageant; it is a platform for young African women to showcase their talents, celebrate our cultural heritage, and project the future we envision, especially as many aspects of our culture are fast eroding.
“The Omoge Asa Cultural Beauty Pageant enables us to express ourselves through dance, spoken word, and the celebration of our traditional attire, highlighting what makes Africa unique. The pageant is an avenue for empowering African women who are ready to step forward from various universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in the southwestern region of Nigeria.
She explained that ‘it is a collective effort to showcase our beliefs as a people while respecting our diverse cultures and origins. For us, it is a unifying strategy to bring everyone together in celebration of our cultural heritage.
‘Also there are rewarding prizes and opportunities for collaboration to be won by contestants in the Omoge Asa Cultural Beauty Pageant 2025.’
This year, Omoge Asa is in collaboration with Lead City University and Academy Suit as its main sponsor.
“Academy Suite will be donating the prizes for the winners of the Omoge Asa and they have put everything in place to host the boot-camp for the contestants with their welfare inclusive for the period for their stay.
“We are also working with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Osun, Ekiti, Oyo and Lagos states. We are honoured to have Chief Mrs. Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, the First Lady of Oyo State, as our distinguished guest, along with the Commissioners for Culture and Tourism in Southwest states.
“If you are a talented young undergraduate in any institution in southwest—whether a university, polytechnic, or college of education—this is your opportunity to showcase your talent, gain empowerment, and network with others who share a passion for celebrating Africa’s diverse culture.
“This is not just a cultural pageantry; it’s a movement. Whether you are sponsoring, contesting, participating, or simply an enthusiast of our culture, join us on this incredible journey at Lead City University, Faculty of Arts. Let’s make history together,” she added.
Director Center for Entrepreneurial Innovations at Lead City University Ibadan, Dr Esther Aderinto expressed excitement about the center’s partnership with the Faculty of Arts for the 2025 edition of Omoge Asa Cultural Pageantry.
“This partnership aims to showcase the entrepreneurial skills and talents of our students in Africa through cultural arts. The event will cover a wide range of options, including Adire and Batik production, Aso Oke weaving, bead making, fashion design, shoe making, and other African crafts. Lead City University entrepreneurial initiatives stand to present viable economic opportunities which we give to our students to help them to bridge the gap between culture and innovation.
“The cultural pageantry will feature participants from all higher education institutions across the southwestern region of Nigeria.Join us as we celebrate this unique fusion of culture and innovation at Omoge Asa 2025 Cultural Pageantry.” Aderinto said.
Founder, Alerte Universal Limited, Mr James Useghan has expressed strong commitment to integrating Alerte app with government agencies and private security firms in the near future. He said his ultimate vision is to position Alerte as a global leader in emergency response technology.
Speaking shortly after the recent launch of the app at Café One in Yaba, Lagos, he said in the next five years, he plans to introduce predictive analytics to preempt emergencies before they escalate, implement multilingual support, and integrate with wearable devices for real-time health monitoring. While Alerte currently operates as an independent emergency response tool, Useghan observed that because technology infrastructure is limited in some regions, his team have implemented strategies to ensure Alerte remains accessible to everyone.
“The app is designed to function efficiently with minimal data usage, making it reliable even in areas with low connectivity. Additionally, community representatives have been deployed to raise awareness and assist users in rural areas,” he added.
Useghan assured that his goal is to create a platform that ensures emergency response is swift, coordinated, and accessible to all. The app, which is much more than just a distress signal, integrates real-time location sharing, AI-driven safety recommendations, and seamless communication with emergency responders to provide users with immediate assistance.
At its core, Alerte is more than just an app, as it is a movement, a lifeline, and a beacon of hope in times of crisis. By leveraging technology, community support, and AI-powered assistance, Useghan is pioneering a new era of emergency response, ensuring that no one feels helpless in an emergency again.
“The app, which is much more than just a distress signal, integrates real-time location sharing, AI-driven safety recommendations, and seamless communication with emergency responders to provide users with immediate assistance,” he added.
For years, Useghan observed the glaring flaws in Nigeria’s emergency response systems. Understanding these challenges, he envisioned a system that would eliminate unnecessary delays by allowing users to alert trusted individuals, first responders, and even nearby community members within seconds. Alerte was designed with this in mind, offering a user-friendly interface that empowers individuals to take control of their safety.
“Alerte operates on a simple yet powerful premise: when users find themselves in distress, they can trigger an alert with a single swipe. The app then shares real-time location data, personal details, and a distress signal with pre-selected emergency contacts. This immediate communication ensures that help is mobilized without the usual bureaucratic delays.
Beyond personal safety, Alerte also fosters a community-based alert network, where nearby users can respond to distress signals, providing an added layer of security. Whether it’s a fire outbreak, a robbery, a car accident, or a missing person case, Alerte ensures that someone is always listening and ready to act.
Another standout feature is its AI-driven assistance, which guides users through emergency protocols in real time. Unlike conventional emergency apps that rely solely on automation, Alerte uses a chatbot that offers step-by-step guidance, helping users make informed decisions during a crisis,” he noted.
According to him, one of the most pressing concerns with any safety technology is privacy, adding that users want to feel secure without compromising their personal information. Understanding this, Useghan ensured that Alerte only shares data with authorized contacts and emergency responders, and only when explicitly permitted by the user. All data is encrypted and erased after the emergency, reinforcing the app’s commitment to security.
“Beauty is the face of a woman,” Coach Alice began as she reached for Tamara’s face, “A woman’s face is as delicate as pawpaw. Soft, smooth and beautiful. And you must do everything to protect and care for it.”
She raised Tamara’s head, turned it to the left and then to the right and noted to herself like an artist x-raying a raw canvas before he/she gets to work.
“And you do not have to empty your pockets before you can get yourself good and affordable skincare and makeup products. And even if you are not bucks up at all, pawpaw is the way to go. You can never go wrong with pawpaw on your skin. It offers several benefits for the skin, including gentle exfoliation, moisturising, and promoting a brighter complexion due to its enzymes and vitamins,” she stated as she continued to examine her canvas – our own Tamara who had just returned from visiting her mother in-law in Ghana. She came back rounded and darker. After lamenting for days, the girls made a decision to bring home a cosmetologist in the person of Coach Alice, courtesy of Ada.
“Ladies, I know you may be wondering why the choice of bringing a cosmetologist, given the times we are in. But I’d like to say, ‘If we don’t take care of ourselves, who will’. We care for family and loved ones: and spare no expense when it comes to our children and in the midst of all that, we lose ourselves. Let’s pause a little, seat back, relax, it’s time to pamper ourselves. This is women’s month. And I know most times, the month is commemorated with all kinds of activities around advocacy. But let’s revert to self-care mode. The Women’s Corner has chosen to bring us Coach Alice because we need to take care of our looks. We chose her because she is good with home remedies. She will leave us with cost-effective skin solutions. Welcome to my home. I welcome you, Coach Alice,” Ada said as she received us and the women of our estate to her apartment. This was before Coach Alice began her training using Tamara’s face to school us.
“Before we start the practical proper, let me take you through the basics. Ada I hope the hot water is on standby? As I’ve said, you don’t have to rob a bank to look good – even to visit a cosmetologist.”
“Hmmmm….them done come o! Which one be say we no need to rob a bank before we visit a cosmetologist. She na moin moin money we go use go there,” Sexy Jola asked, nudging me on the side even as Coach Alice, after hearing her words replied, “Let me shock you, a session with me is not expensive at all. In fact it is not even as expensive as a plate of rice”. Alice stated, and the room exploded into a frenzy. And a heated argument ensued. “Helloooo…Ladies… Please, let our coach land na. I’m sure she will explain,” Christabel intervened.
“It depends on where you buy the plate of rice o,” someone screamed and threw the room into a moment of laughter.
“As I said, a consultation with me is not up to the price of plate of rice. But let’s leave it for now. Before we begin, please choose a partner whom you will be working with. There’s nothing stopping you from continuing even after today to work on each other’s face,” Coach Alice said and went ahead to school us on the simple way to know our skin type; different areas or angle of the face to pay attention to, and home remedies for spots and acne removals, facial scrub, etc.
As Jolaolu and I joined Ada and Nurse Cordelia in the kitchen to assist in taking the hot water to our cosmetologist, we heard both of them arguing over the pretty Natasha and sexual harassment issue. As if we planned it, I and my partner in crime grabbed our bowl of hot water, and as we turned to leave, Ada asked: “Evelyn, one minute, we need your opinion on the matter at hand”.
“If you ask me, na who I go ask,” I said and left without saying another word.
In just three days, a public family dispute involving Afrobeats star Asake and his father, Fatai Odunsi, captured widespread attention. From claims of abandonment to emotional reconciliations, the saga unfolded on social media, revealing a complex father-son relationship, finally culminating in a heartfelt resolution and a promise of support, reports ASSISTANT ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR GBENGA BADA.
• Singer to buy new house, settle father’s hospital bill
In three days, the seeming dirty linen in the private life of Afrobeats singer, Ahmed Ololade Odunsi (aka Asake), rented the air and created a buzz on social media. On Friday, March 14, a video of Fatai Odunsi, who is Asake’s father, appealing to the public for financial assistance, citing severe health challenges, surfaced online. In the now-viral video, the elderly Odunsi revealed that he has been battling stroke since 2022 and has been abandoned by his celebrity son for reasons unknown.
The elderly Odunsi claimed he was a responsible father, who was present in the life of his son as he was the only product of the short-lived union between himself and Asake’s mum, whose name was simply given as Falilat. He also noted that the last time he spoke or chatted with Asake was in 2022 and he has neither picked his calls or supported him financially as a child should do to his parents. The video elicited reactions from several quarters – with most coming from social media. While reactions were flying about, some blamed Asake’s mother for inciting the singer against his father. Others insisted the senior Odunsi was a deadbeat father, who wanted to reap from where he did not sow.
Investigations by The Nation revealed that Asake has a chummy relationship with his mother, whom he says he adores. On March 5, 2025, Asake took to his X account to celebrate his mother. He wrote, “Happy birthday to the most amazing mom. Your love and support mean the world to me. I’m so grateful for you every day. Love you more than anything.”
In what seemed to be a direct response to his father’s claim, the Grammy nominee and former YBNL signee, claimed he did his best to take care of his father but his father wants to cajole him. In the musical response released on his official Instagram pages, Asake claimed it’s hard to satisfy everyone but he will keep doing his best till he passes on. In his words, “You can’t please everyone, you can’t please the world. But anything you are doing, just do it for God. My own father wants to cajole me, and I have sent so much money to him. I have struggled for so many years, but they want to make life tire me.”
Asake’s cryptic response on social media further elicited claims from supporters of his father, who claimed his father was very present in his life. The supporters insisted that Odunsi was responsible for taking care of Asake when he parted ways with his mum in 1998 and the star singer was just three years old. The supporters went further to blame Asake’s mother for masterminding his decision to stay away and abandon his father. The supporters claimed she did this to get back at Odunsi after parting ways with him over 27 years ago. It was during the back and forth that the existence of an 11-year-old girl, said to be Asake’s first daughter, was brought to the fore. Odunsi’s supporters had backed up their claims of Asake’s abandonment of his father with the claims that he also abandoned his own child.
After much accusations and counter accusations, the music sensation reached out to his father and made amends with him following the public fallout. On Sunday, March 16, in a short video, Odunsi revealed that Asake had reached out and promised to support him. He went further to say the singer has committed to purchasing a new house for him as he’s currently shopping for a house for him and promises to cover his medical expenses by booking a doctor’s appointment in the highbrow Lekki area for him. He said he’s happy with his son and prayed endlessly for his success at all times.
“His mother ought to ask him when he last saw me. That was what got me angry, but we have sorted out all the problems. We are no longer fighting. Asake said he will do everything that I want. We have settled, no more problems. They are now looking for a new house that he will buy for me. He has settled everything,” he said in the video.
On taking responsibilities of his daughter, Odunsi said Asake has also agreed to take full responsibility for his 11-year-old daughter, Zeenat. “He has never denied his child, but he has now promised to take full responsibility for the child,” Odunsi said in the video.
Reactions from different quarters
Sesan Adeniji reacted to the first video from Odunsi saying, “To imagine Asake’s alleged father fails to use his first public appearance to reconnect by saying “Son, I still love. Forgive me if I have wronged you.” But instead he used his name to beg and also dent his image by saying “he has not picked my call” is bonkers entitlement. Any father that publicly chastises his son indirectly for allegedly not helping financially (no matter the circumstances. I know we sometimes need help), may win the battle of public opinion but arguably have failed to act as a father. Use love to connect and not pressure.”
Adeniji responded again after Asake and his father settled their rift saying, “Asake has done the transaction. His father said “We have spoken. He’s about to buy me a house. Fight is over…(paraphrasing).” Arguably, sometimes, the level of love you get from some of your family members is transactional. Get money and God’s grace.”
Reacting to the public fallout, Sheriffdeen Ojon Olorunfemi said, “Egbon Malo (as Odunsi is widely referred to) and my uncle, Ambaliu Olorunfemi, worked together as Local Government Council traffic officials. He (Asake) inherited all the talents of his father, both in singing and drumming. During his struggles to succeed in life, Allah made me become involved in his life in one way or the other, through his mother, who informed me about his music career. Ahmed himself contacted me via WhatsApp after his mother shared my contact information with him. I recall praying for him for several days. As I always say, no prayer goes to waste.
“While I cannot definitively say whether my prayers were answered, I can see that all that I told his mother about Ahmed is manifesting in his life now. I thank God for his life, and I advise him not to neglect his father if he wishes to continue prospering in life. Thinking about his son neglecting him caused his stroke in 2022 and also delaying the healing on time. My name is Alfa Sheriff Islander Omo Oju Olokun, Isale-Eko, Lagos Island.
“Anyone who doesn’t know Malo, Ahmed, and Iya Asake but you’re online, calling his father all sorts of names and saying he didn’t care for Ahmed just to get traffic on your page and monetisation money, God will judge you negatively in this holy month. Because none of you people saying rubbish know this family more than we people in Isale-Eko. We both lived together in Isale Eko with these people or family, and we know each other better! Baraka Jumath and Ramadan Kareem”
On his part, Wale Balogun said, “Egbon, I don’t want to say anything about the matter from the onset, but the way people are accusing Bro Malo of neglecting Asake was really disappointing and annoying at the same time. Bro Malo used to live in my family house at No. 4, Ojuyewa Lane with Hammed for years before they moved to Okiti. So I know much about these people. Iya Hammed (Sis Fali) was eku eda. I don’t know what could have happened later on that made her turn her child against his dad. Even if Asake doesn’t want to take care of his father, she is in the right position to let the boy do the needful. From now on, I won’t keep quiet in people’s comment sections anymore because no parent deserves this kind of treatment in old age.”
Reacting to the fallout, Wale Olaleye, the deputy editor at ThisDay Newspaper wrote, “It is heartbreaking to actually realise that Portable is more sensible than Asake. He should have shut his mouth. Sad!”
On her part, Canadian based Nigerian media strategist and women advocate, Esther Ijewere, took another point in her submission of the fallout. She wrote, “I had to dig through before I found this photo of Asake from his GQ feature in April 2024. I was looking for an image that reflected both my emotions as a child and his silent response to the ongoing saga. I once left a comment when he changed his look, covering his face with tattoos. I said he was either rebranding or masking a pain he wasn’t ready to confront.
“The truth about his childhood remains unclear, aside from scattered blog posts, some painting his father in a bad light, others portraying his mother as bitter and harsh. But I am in no position to judge the father who allegedly raised him partially and then abandoned him, nor will I throw his mother under the bus. What I do know is that Asake deserves love from his family, not a public spectacle that leaves him open to criticism. In all our hot takes, I hope we remember that beneath the fame, there is a child in this body who likely longs to hear something other than “I need money.” Artists who sing about loneliness or try to detach from vulnerability are often battling deep internal struggles. There’s a void they are trying to fill. Something they crave but cannot seem to find.
“Rejection, especially from a parent, can shape a child’s entire existence. It creates a lifelong battle of defensiveness, a feeling of always being misunderstood. A child who grows up hearing “I love you” moves through life differently than one who hears “I don’t want anything to do with you.” Some wounds cannot be healed by money, fame, or influence. True healing requires conscious effort from within.We can’t force it on people either. You can tell a person to forgive without asking them to forget their lived experience. Rather than judge, I choose to send light and love to this incredible artist. No child should grow up in a world where age and cultural expectations suppress their emotions. Children raised this way often become defensive adults, struggling to express themselves, or they shut people out completely. To parents: Please, don’t let the world raise your talented children for you. Be present. Be intentional. Be the voice they hear before the noise of the world tries to define them. A child who feels truly seen and loved at home will have less to prove to the world. I wish him well.”
Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to the arts and culture sector at the Art of Love Lagos event held recently at the Nike Art Gallery, Lekki Lagos. Organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the First Lady of Lagos, the event brought together notable figures in the creative industry, diplomatic community and traditional institutions.
Renowned actress Kate Henshaw who anchored the event set the tone for a day of artistic expression. The chief convener, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Okundaye, fondly known as Mama Nike, whose decades-long work in preserving Yoruba art and culture has earned her international recognition applauded the Lagos State Government for its continuous support of the creative sector.
Among the dignitaries present were the Chinese Consul General, the British Deputy High Commissioner (represented by Mr. Seinfeld), CEO of Meristem, Mr. Wole Ogunbade and Chairman of Regency Alliance Insurance, Mr. Clem Baye. The presence of traditional rulers, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Aderemi Olusegun, and His Royal Majesty, Onile Odua of Yoruba Land, Oba Steve Ajose, underscored the event’s cultural significance.
The event featured different performances celebrating Nigeria’s rich heritage. Poet IB Quake delivered a stirring piece on the intersection of art and technology in Lagos. The Afri Amaka Arts Group thrilled the audience with a cultural dance, while Wura Samba’s drumming performance emphasised the rhythmic heartbeat of Lagos’s artistic scene.
In a goodwill message, Acting Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Consulate, Amanda Roach Brown highlighted the significance of the event, especially as it coincided with Black History Month. She commended Lagos for fostering an environment where art and culture thrive. The event also served as a platform to spotlight key cultural destinations in Lagos, including Terra Kulture, Lekki Conservation Centre, and the newly commissioned J. Randle Centre for History and Yoruba Culture. Also spotlighted were notable projects under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu such as the Lagos State Creative Industry Initiative, launch of the Lagos Culture Commission and the Lagos Creative Vault Initiative that position Lagos as a hub for arts and entertainment.
Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe reaffirmed the state’s commitment to positioning Lagos as a cultural and entertainment hub, emphasizing the need for year-round artistic engagement rather than limiting activities to festive seasons.
The event rounded off with an exhibition tour led by Mama Nike, where guests savoured works by emerging and established visual artists. This further cemented Lagos’s reputation as a cultural melting pot, where tradition and contemporary creativity co-exist seamlessly.
The battle for control remains till this day as new platforms of exploitation keep emerging and the law is trudging behind technology. How do we respond and reposition the rights of performers to benefit from the new technologies with models that guarantee sustainable coexistence, profitable business and the continued relevance of performances as a vehicle for the transmission of culture, social harmony and economic prosperity. Yesterday, it was the VHS; today it is streaming, social media and the manipulative power of Artificial Intelligence.”
With that advice, the Director General, Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) Dr. John Asein charged the Nigerian theatre practitioners to be well-versed in the legal mechanism that protects them and their performing rights. He urged the practitioners to understand the strategic importance of intellectual property, particularly copyright and how to navigate the intersection.
Dr Asein who spoke at the NANTAP National Delegates Convention, in Lagos said that as theatre practitioners, ‘we often use others’ works as we create our own. Our works are wrapped in creativity and as creators we deserve to enjoy the fruits of our labour. But, in a rapidly evolving world, it is imperative that we are not only skilled in our craft but also well-versed in the legal mechanism that protects us and our rights.’ The theme for the five-day convention, which opened at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos last week was Theatre, Politics and National Development.
In his keynote titled: Performer’s Rights Under The Nigerian Copyright Act (Light, Camera, Action!) Dr. Asein stated that it is crucial for performing artistes to understand their rights, leverage the protection that intellectual property offers, and be proactive in managing their works in the digital age. By doing so, he said, practitioners can ensure that their creativity continues to thrive while being properly compensated and respected on both local and global stages.
He noted that the intersection between intellectual property and the performing arts is dynamic and multifaceted, and as such, as performing artistes create works that resonate with audiences, their intellectual creations must be protected, respected, and compensated.
According to him, intellectual property, especially copyright law, provides the legal framework that enables performers to maintain control over their creations and benefit from their labor. “With the rise of new digital platforms, collaborations, and globalized distribution, the intersection of IP and the performing arts will continue to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for artistes. I have deliberately limited my thoughts to copyright but there are other aspects of intellectual property that should be of interest to the performer. Branding, image rights and use of likeness, styles and plots, issues with voice overs, adaptations, etc. The law cannot provide exclusive rights in all these cases but there is need to continue the conversation and identify the gaps that need to be addressed and how best to do so,” he added.
He identified new areas NCC will be ready to partner NANTAP, which include strengthening performer’s rights protection, identifying gaps in the value chain and address them through administrative and legislative actions; exploring genuine solutions for areas outside copyright’s scope, developing strategies for copyright education and training for service providers and Theatre Arts Departments in our schools, addressing emerging trends and create legal frameworks to safeguard performers in the digital age, creating a more constructive role for theatre practitioners within the copyright ecosystem, activating the provisions on the protection of expressions of folklore and working together to ensure the protection and growth of our creative industry.
“There is a need to address emerging trends and create legal frameworks to safeguard performers in the digital age, create a more constructive role for theatre practitioners within the copyright ecosystem.
The team will also look at activating the provisions on the protection of expressions of folklore and work together to ensure the protection and growth of our creative industry,” he said.
Dr Asein noted that with the rise of new digital platforms, collaborations, and globalised distribution, the intersection of intellectual property and performing arts would continue to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for artistes. He added that as part of the call to action, the commission would develop the outcome of the session into a publication on Copyright and Theatre Arts. This, he said, would be a tribute to two Nigerians who greatly influenced the emergence of performer’s rights in Nigeria. “These are Dr. Sylvester Agbaje-Williams, a theatre enthusiast and key contributor to our modern copyright system; and Chief Hubert Ogunde, the doyen of Nigerian theatre, who advocated the inclusion of performers’ rights in the Copyright Act in 1988,” he added.
In his remark, NANTAP President, Mr Israel Eboh said that from the dawn of civilization, theatre has held up a mirror to society, chronicling its struggles, triumphs, and aspirations. He added that theatre has shaped ideologies, questioned power structures, and fueled revolutions. “Whether in ancient Greece, where drama was a tool for civic engagement, or in contemporary Nigeria, where theatre continues to challenge and inspire, our craft has always been at the forefront of shaping discourse…While we celebrate how far we have come, we must also recognize that the journey is far from over. The future of Nigerian theatre is bright, but its continued growth demands our collective effort, dedication, and resilience,” he added.
According to him, this is the time for NANTAP and NCC to work together in view of the need to create awareness on the existing laws.
“We have the human resources. You have the technical requirements. I think the problem with practitioners has to do with intellectual laziness. It is unfortunate. How much of the laws we know do we apply to the work we do? We need a change,” he said.
The conference also witnessed panel session featuring Director, NCC Lagos Office Mrs Lynda Alphaeus, Professor of Law, Babcock University, Prof Dorcas Odunaike, Mrs Ugo Obiayo, and …..
Mrs Alphaeus said the present copyright law could compete favourably with world practises but unfortunately artistes had failed to internalise the content for their use. She advised the artistes to take their time to read and understand the laws to be able to apply it.
“The 2022 Copyright law has made provision for the protection of works on the social media space. It allows NCC to set up dispute resolution panels to resolve copyright infringement cases. The new copyright laws now allows artistes to register their works with NCC to tackle issues of ownership, this will ensure further protection of individuals’ intellectual works,” she said. Prof. Odunaike stressed the need for Nigerians to be reorientated on every aspect of the Copyright laws.
For about eight hours, revellers in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, who came out in thousands, defied the scorching sun to celebrate the biggest Street Party, at this year’s Calabar Carnival . As early as 10am, all the major roads linking the Millennium Park, and the UJ Esuene Stadium were overrun by a large army of revelers including nursing mothers, pregnant women, children, young and old.
All through this route, fun- seekers formed rings of human fence on the roads for the participating groups and motorised floats that performed on the streets. From Millenium Park through to Eleven Eleven junction via Calabar Road to De Choice Foods junction, Mary Slessor Avenue/ Roundabout where the first adjudication exercise is done, and to UJ Esuene Stadium for the final lap, the enthusiastic crowd continued to increase.
In fact, the ancient city of Calabar was literally shut down on Saturday for the main show of the carnival.
Interestingly, the flagship event attracted the presence of former first lady Hajia Aisha Buhari, two state governors-Usman Ododo of Kogi, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, and some members of the diplomatic community.
The one-month long celebration themed “Our Shared Prosperity” provided ample business opportunities for many small scale entrepreneurs such as food and drink vendors, gifts, snacks sellers, hotel operators, fashion designers, makeup artistes, hair stylists, artists and craftsmen who designed floats among others.
The multiplier effects on Cross River State economy are huge and impactful.
At the close of the event in the early hours of Sunday at the stadium, the Band of the year at the 2024 Calabar carnival was clinched by Calas Vegas making it a back-to-back victory after winning it last year. Seagull Band came second followed by Freedom Band in third position.
But in the junior category, Calas Vegas Band and Seagull Band emerged first and second positions respectively, thus reenacting the same rivalry between the senior sides. Bayside came third.
For the participating states, Akwa Ibom State won the first position in cultural carnival while Osun and Delta came second and third respectively. Yakurr won the first position in the Local government category while Calabar south and Odukpani got the second and third positions respectively.
Earlier at the opening on Saturday, Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River State said the yearly Calabar Carnival has continued to attract added values each year while building on the founding fathers’ vision of the street party. He stated that partners and sponsors of the carnival have increased over the last two decades hoping that next year edition will be bigger and better with possible participation from the diaspora.
Governor Otu who spoke while declaring open the carnival’s street party on Saturday in Calabar, assured revellers of a spectacular outing.
The 2024 Calabar Carnival ended yesterday.
This year’s Street Party featured seven competitive bands and seven non competitive bands that performed along Eleven Eleven junction through De Choice junction via Mary Slessor Avenue to the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar. Participants are expected to the scores by adjudicators at some points before the final one at the Stadium. And at the grand finale, the all night leg of the carnival attracted unprecedented crowd with spill over on the premises and the road.
Earlier in October, the Carnival witnessed three editions of dry run to test run how the carnival would be.
Governor Otu who was accompanied to the ceremony by his Kogi and Kwara State counterparts and the former first Lady, Aisha Buhari said: “Today is a great day in the Calendar history of Calabar. We are indeed very, very humbled that we are celebrating about two decspectacular.ades of this particular event. And I know that we’ve been building and adding value daily.
“The buyers have increased. And we know even next year, because the diaspora is pressing very, very hard, we might be able to add the diaspora band that will come on full strength.
“But as Cross Riverians, we want to thank all those who have come, and we say come and live and share with us. I declare this open in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit.”
While appreciating the dignitaries and tourists at the event, he urged them to take out time to explore the tourism assets in Calabar.
He also commended the efforts of previous governors of the state for sustaining the carnival over the years.
“For those that are coming for the first time, please don’t go very quick, try and stay back and enjoy the full hospitality of our people.
“Let me salute our forefathers. His Excellency Governor Duke, His Excellency Governor Imoke and Prof. Ben Ayade, for building on what was started by Governor Duke until it got here,” he said.
Chairman, Calabar Carnival Commission Dr Gab Onah, appreciated the sponsors and partners of the carnival such as Zenith Bank, MultiChoice, Afrixim Bank, Arias IIP, the IAI International Insurance, MTN, First Bank, United Bank of Africa, Nigeria Breweries among others. He charged them to take ownership of the tourism and hospitality sectors for sustainability.
“We are experiencing a rebirth. We are here to speak to the ignition of community spirit, to speak to the community of Africa, and what we are ready to offer the world.
“The dance party on the streets tells the story. The Carnival is allegorical, it is didactic, it is educational, it is theatre for development.
“No wonder Afrixim Bank, Arias IIP, the IAI International Insurance, MTN, First Bank, UBA are here as sponsors. We thank you for this, but we believe that we can take over this sector and run with it for sustainability, competition, and appreciation by the communities,” he said.
In his goodwill message Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi state commended Gov. Otu for uniting the people of Cross River through the carnival.
“This is a historic event. Here, I can see love, understanding, compassion, and liberty.
“Your excellency, Gov. Otu, your leadership style has paid off, and I must commend you for unlocking the potentials in the youths. You are actually taking the lead,” he said.
Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara said:, “I am glad to be back here. I am witnessing sustainability and progress here. This puts Nigeria on the global map, and it improves the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state. This is a beautiful day, so let us celebrate”.
Sustaining a Global Brand
Going by the diverse composition of participants and sub themes addressed at the event, as well as the people’s undying love and reception for the carnival, it shows a strong by in and inconclusiveness in the last two decades.
In particular, the youths formed the fulcrum of most groups events, which points to the fact that it’s a people’s event that prides on continuity. Even the physically challenged in the state are never discriminated against as they have always participated in the carnival.
A physically challenged group, Paradise City of the Para-Soccer Players participated in the carnival featuring its 25 members.
Leader of the group, Sax Gambo said that participating in the carnival was a form of empowerment for the group.
“Revellers get to know that they can also feature in cultural events.
“I thank the Calabar Carnival Commission for making the physically challenged have some sense of belonging.
“Honestly, we feel valued and respected participating in the carnival. This is a way of creating a fair, equitable, and just society.
“This is our fourth year participating in the carnival, we are looking forward to another edition in 2025. In spite of covering 12km parade route, we are not tired.”
Also, Aliu Umar, a member of the group, expressed excitement at his participation at the street party.
“Assuming we were left out of this colourful event, I will feel really bad,” he said.
Despite the distance and the economic situation, Cross Rivereans outside Calabar were not ready to miss out of this year’s edition of the carnival. One of such is a 89-year old retired civil servant Mrs Agnes Akpama from Yakurr local government area of the state who expressed her joy at the colourful presentations. She said it was her first time of witnessing the carnival live in the last 20 years and that it was made possible by her daughter also a retired medical officer with the Nigerian Army. “I cannot describe the carnival. It is wonderful and colourful. The carnival is a spectacle and I won’t miss any future edition because it’s more than cultural display,” she said.
Her daughter, Grace Akpama who was also in the crowd said until this year, she has been watching the carnival on TV while still in service.
“Today, I feel on top of the world. I never knew the carnival was that colourful..Henceforth I cannot afford to miss future edition since I am home retired from service,” she assured.
For Mr.A Etim, a resident of Calabar this year’s carnival is awesome presentation that combines music, vibrant costumes to give entertainment and reinvigoration especially at this trying time. “It is a a soothing balm and the people needs it in abundance now,” Etim added
A Chinese business man Mr. Risen Fan, who was in Calabar in company of his partner for the carnival said the carnival was more than a display of culture. “I am impressed by the vibrant colours and the different costumes displayed by the participants.
No fewer than 9 States and 18 Local Government Areas in Cross River State participated in the Calabar Cultural Carnival with their distinct costumes, showcasing their cultural prowess while embodying this year’s theme.
As a motivation for participants, Governor Otu on Thursday urged the participants to seize the opportunity presented by the escalated prizes for winners to display their utmost talents.
“I pledged last year to introduce enhancements to our offerings, and I believe we have delivered on that promise,” he said.
Unveiling the new incentives, the governor announced that his administration has augmented the prizes this year to ensure heightened competition, with plans for further enhancements in the upcoming year.
There couldn’t have been a more auspicious time than this festive season for the Continental Hotels Lagos and Abuja to undertake facility upgrades, innovative services for its growing clientele.
Speaking with journalists during an interactive session in Lagos recently, the Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Mr. Karl Hala who was supported by other staff, described the first seven months of 2024 as very challenging for most industries including hospitality.
Hala who has been in the industry for decades, however added that in the last five months, the table has turned positively.
“But the last five months have turned the scenario and the market around. We are finishing both here in Lagos and in Abuja on a very high note economically speaking, also with the pleasures, the guest satisfactions and our teams,” he said.
He hinted that in the first quarter of 2025, the focus of the group would be its academy and how to develop and bring the best skill sets out of its teams numbering over 1,700 under direct and indirect employment.
He attributed the success of the two hotels in the outgoing year to the passionate team.
“We are a flexible hotel operated by the best teams in the country. To further support this, we just opened the Ladi Kwali Sports Village in Abuja.
“And that is a place which features sports facilities from tennis courts, volleyball, squash and table tennis. And a brand new gym, which just opened last November together with the gym in Lagos, which will enhance both of them, absolute top of fitness anything you wish within the technology,” he said.
Hala said the two hotels – Lagos Continental and Abuja Continental epitomise the luxury and lifestyle hospitality in Nigeria. He noted that both facilities have 947 elegantly big-sized rooms and suites that offer an unparalleled comfort.
Hala said that the hotels are big on conventions and event hosting with their world class conference facilities.
According to him, the state-of-the-art 5,000 square metres of meeting space for up to 3,500 delegates are pillar less, amid modern conferencing facilities that combine to ensure the success of government and corporate gatherings, weddings and other social events both in Lagos and Abuja.
He assured that this festive season, both hotels are poised to provide memorable experiences focusing on exceptional dining, entertainment, and relaxation offerings. While Abuja Continental highlights cultural experiences and local traditions, Lagos Continental showcases grand culinary events with diverse offerings,” he added.
Hala identified a striving talent in Nigeria that is always exciting, noting that there is an eagerness to learn, to see, to perform. “Now we want to make sure we realise it to the best with all the platforms, which we can offer,” he said confidently.
On what made Sheraton Abuja a strategic buy-in for Continental Hotels, he said: “That is a question our board decided but if you take from the logistical level, Abuja is the capital of Nigeria. It’s the hub of diplomacy. It’s the build up of corporations, and it has space which is enormous and was basically a number one hotel. So we now have the opportunity of 3,600 rooms, 14 hectares, sports facilities, recreation, wellness and the demand for business. We come in and we make look what it should be. You give other competitors a run for their money.”
Hala, who has spent 16 years in Nigeria, is very optimistic of the future of Nigeria, despite the current socio-economic challenges, which he said are not peculiar to Nigeria.
He, therefore, charged Nigerians on the need to change the narrative for the better.
“We need to write the story to get this across because one thing that is an issue and challenge in Nigeria, which you wouldn’t find in Egypt or Turkey, is that we don’t glorify ourselves. We just slam ourselves. Have you ever heard anybody get bombed or terrorised in Egypt and Turkey? They don’t say it, they handle it among themselves. We have to become ambassadors for Nigeria.
“There are 250 million people and there is no real danger zone. This is a country of peace-loving people. We all have a story to tell and we will tell the story proudly,” he said.
The upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan to international status promises significant benefits for Oyo State and Southwest. This transformation, aimed at enhancing regional and international connectivity, will alleviate congestion at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, boosting business, tourism and the local economy. Southwest Bureau Chief BISI OLADELE highlights the strategic importance of a second international airport in the Southwest Nigeria.
The upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, Oyo State, to international status by Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration brings significant benefits not only to the people of the state but also to the entire Southwest region of Nigeria. This development will alleviate the travel burdens faced by businesspeople, scholars, government officials, politicians, and tourists who frequently visit Ibadan. It will provide a convenient alternative to the often-congested Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMA) in Lagos, sparing travellers the frustrations of long queues, flight delays, and road traffic bottlenecks.
In a noteworthy move, the Federal Government officially renamed the airport Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport last year, as part of a nationwide initiative to honour prominent figures by renaming public infrastructure. Currently, the airport operates domestic flights on the Ibadan-Abuja route, and passenger numbers have been steadily increasing, suggesting a growing demand and promising prospects for the future. This expansion signals a bright future for the airport as it prepares to serve more international routes, further boosting the economic and cultural ties between Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria, and the world.
The Ibadan-Abuja route, once considered unattractive due to limited airline options and small aircraft serving the route, has seen a significant turnaround in recent times. Passengers previously dissatisfied with the single airline operating the route, and the discomfort of flying in smaller planes, often chose to travel via Lagos. However, this dynamic move began to shift after Governor Makinde initiated key infrastructure improvements aimed at revitalising the airport and enhancing its services. Last year, Governor Makinde made a series of transformative upgrades to the road network leading to the airport, including converting the outer Old Ife Road through the airport area into a dual carriageway. This move greatly improved accessibility and comfort for travellers. Additionally, the governor renovated the airport’s fire service building and donated a modern fire truck, further upgrading the airport’s safety infrastructure.
One of the major hurdles for the airport had been the lack of sufficient refuelling capacity for aircraft. To address this, Governor Makinde facilitated the construction of an aviation storage tank and aircraft fuelling facility, which was developed by the private oil firm BOVAS and Co. Limited. This facility ensures that the airport can cater to aircraft that require more fuel to reach their next destination, removing a significant logistical barrier for airlines. As a result of these improvements, Ibadan Airport now welcomes three new airlines — Air Peace, Green Africa and Overland — operating daily flights with larger aircraft that can accommodate up to 250 passengers. The enhanced airline services, along with the upgraded facilities, have led to a rise in passenger traffic and growing confidence in the airport’s capabilities.
Governor Makinde’s efforts culminated in a request to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the airport’s upgrade to international status, which he committed to funding through the state government. Some months ago, the approval for this upgrade was granted, a move that has been met with enthusiasm by many, though some critics questioned the necessity of the project, citing the proximity of Ibadan to Lagos and its international airport, Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMA).
In response to these criticisms, Governor Makinde confidently challenged detractors to provide data to substantiate their claims that the investment would be a waste of state resources. At the ground-breaking ceremony for the upgrade, the governor explained that the decision was based on extensive research and data analysis, emphasising that the evidence supported the project’s viability and the long-term benefits it would bring to the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, and the entire Southwest region of Nigeria.
He said: “We have our data. For those who think this project is not proper, we take decisions based on logic, science and data. The decision to upgrade this airport was based on solid data and logic. If you have your own data that contradicts ours, please let us have a public debate. I am sure that in the next 12 months, this project will be delivered. I will push the envelope. Anyone who wants to question what we are doing should visit Angola that just completed its own airport at the cost of $3 billion. This is no joke. If you want to tap into a $3 billion industry, you must be ready to be bold and we are bold here in Oyo State.”
According to the governor, the first phase of the ambitious upgrade project for airport is set to cost N41 billion. This phase, flagged off recently, marks a significant milestone in transforming the airport into an international hub. Mr. Bimbo Adekanmbi, Chairman of the Airport Upgrade Committee, outlined the key improvements to expect. The runway, which currently measures 2,400 meters, will be extended to 3,000 meters, with its shoulders widened from 45 to 60 meters to accommodate larger aircraft. The first phase will also include the installation of advanced lighting systems to enable night-time operations. The apron will be expanded to 56,250 square meters, creating parking space for up to six Airbus A330 aircraft and ensuring a 7.5-meter clearance for Class E aircraft.
Additionally, the upgrade will enhance airside facilities, including the construction of a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hangar, a modern fire bay, and ground navigation systems. A new parking lot for vehicles and a cargo terminal will also be built to support growing air traffic and trade. In terms of fuel supply, BOVAS, which constructed the new fuelling facility, foresaw the future growth of air traffic at the airport and built a high-capacity fuel station to meet the demand of increased flights. Before international services can commence, additional security posts will be constructed, and a new terminal will be built in the second phase of the project.
Adekanmbi also reassured the public that the ongoing expansion is confined to the operational premises of the airport and will not affect any nearby buildings or encroachments on airport land. Once the first phase is completed, international flights can begin immediately, and the expanded infrastructure will also allow for larger domestic flights, should the need arise. Governor Makinde has assured that this phase of the upgrade will be completed within 12 months. The project committee, comprising prominent figures such as Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN), Alhaji Kabir Mohammed, Architect Yomi Onilude and several other experts, is overseeing the implementation of the upgrades. When the upgrade is completed, Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport will be better equipped to serve the growing population of Oyo State, which exceeds seven million, as well as residents of neighbouring states such as Osun, Ondo, Ogun, Ekiti, and Kwara. The enhanced airport will provide a vital gateway for international travel, significantly boosting the region’s economic and tourism potential.
History and recent developments
The history of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport dates back to the colonial era when the Royal Air Force of the British Government constructed an airstrip in Ibadan to support domestic flight operations. However, the early years were marked by significant challenges, as the runway was unpaved and there was no functional terminal building. During this time, the region’s aviation needs were primarily met by more established airports in Lagos and Kano. In 1953, the Civil Aviation Department took control of the airport, upgrading the infrastructure by tarring the runway and constructing a terminal building. This terminal housed a fire station, Nigeria Airways office, as well as departments for meteorology and telecommunications. With the population of Ibadan growing and the city emerging as a central hub for politics, commerce, and education, the need for a more robust airport became increasingly apparent.
In 1959, it was clear that Ibadan’s aviation infrastructure needed further development. The city’s growing prominence highlighted the need for an airport capable of accommodating regional flights, leading to official discussions about upgrading the airport to handle increased traffic. Eventually, the airport was inaugurated in June 1982 by Senate President Joseph Wayas, becoming an official regional airport dedicated to domestic flights. At this time, it had a modest terminal and a runway that could only accommodate smaller aircraft like the DHC-8, F-27, and small military planes.
As Ibadan rapidly urbanised, the original location in Bodija became too congested, prompting a move to the Alakia area, a suburb at the time, which allowed for further expansion and modernisation. These improvements included upgrading the terminal building, runway, and the introduction of more advanced navigation and communication systems managed by the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). As the airport evolved, it attracted airlines such as Nexus Aviation, Albarka Air, Overland Airways, Capital Air, and Associated Airlines.
Under the leadership of Stella Oduah as Aviation Minister, a major renovation project was undertaken to accommodate the increasing passenger traffic. The project involved the remodelling of the terminal building, enhancing the overall passenger experience and modernising the facilities. This revamped terminal was officially inaugurated on May 18, 2019. As Ibadan’s development has progressed, so too has the airport’s role within Nigeria’s broader aviation industry. With a growing focus on regional airports, Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport has become a key component in supporting economic growth and regional connectivity. The airport now features a 2,400-meter by 45-meter runway, an apron with the capacity to park three Boeing 737 aircraft, and a Category One Airfield Lighting System. The terminal is equipped with modern amenities, including a departure hall, arrival hall, baggage claim, VIP and protocol lounges, staff offices, a clinic, cargo storage and a variety of public conveniences.
The upgrade is expected to transform Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into the second international air travel hub in Southwest Nigeria, following the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMA) in Lagos. This upgrade is poised to support a new era of regional and international connectivity, enhancing travel options for businesses, tourists and institutions.
The ancient city of Benin, the Edo State capital, witnessed an artistic rebirth when some legendary and emerging Nigerian visual artists converged on the red city for a 10-day Benin Art Fair.
The inaugural edition of The Benin Art Fair, organised by Thought Pyramid Art Centre, headed by Chief Jeff Ajueshi, was a historic celebration of creativity, heritage and artistic genius. Venue was the Abstract Backyard, GRA, Benin City, between November 29 and December 8.
Interestingly, the venue of the fair complements the emerging Benin Cultural District that boasts of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) under construction on Ezoti Road and the Akenzua Cultural Centre on Airport Road.
The outdoor and indoor pavilions of the facility created a conducive ambience for the appreciation of the different media, forms and sizes of artworks including priceless bronze artefacts.
Beyond honouring the extraordinary artistic legacy of the Edo people, the fair also celebrated the indigenous masters who paved the way and the contemporary genius sustaining the path of excellence that the people of Edo represent.
No fewer than 34 participants featured at the fair, which included legends such as master printmaker, painter and sculptor Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ben Osawe, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, a world acclaimed and recognised bead painter from Osogbo, Tola Wewe, Enotie Ogbebor,
The 10-day fair witnessed a magnificent convergence of some of Nigeria’s great artists from diverse backgrounds showcasing works that reflect the past, engage with the present, and inspire the future. From the mesmerising castings of ancient times to contemporary masterpieces that push boundaries, the fair serves to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, paying homage to the creative influence that has defined Benin for generations.
Significantly, the fair showcased the ‘dynamic blend, interactions, dialogue and cultural narratives between traditional, contemporary and modern that define the Edo State artscape. It also served as platform for projecting and promoting both local and international artists mostly of Edo origin, though spiced with other notable artists outside of the state.
The fair is a confirmation that Benin is not just known for ancient and antique bronzes or relics, but also a vibrant centre for creativity of contemporary art and artists.
One of the participants, Semiu-Alvin wowed the guests with his live drawing and painting sessions during the private viewing and opening ceremony of the fair. Also providing spices was a Benin-based Edo cultural troupe, which thrilled the guests to traditional Edo musical performances.
According to Ajueshi, The Benin Art Fair’s vision is clear: to give the Benin people what is inherently theirs, to educate the new generation of Benin indigenes about their creative power, and to elevate the narrative surrounding this remarkable culture.
He said through the fair, ‘we aim to reclaim Benin as the ultimate seat of artistic genius in Nigeria, and perhaps, all of Africa.’
“For centuries, Benin has stood as a beacon of artistic pioneers, renowned for its profound influence on the global and traditional art world. This fair is a movement-a call to action to reclaim, celebrate, and showcase the rich artistic genius that resides in the very soul of the Benin people,” he added.
He stressed that it is an ‘opportunity for us to remind the world and ourselves of the profound artistic legacy that flows through the veins of every Benin indigene. It is a space to inspire the younger generation to recognize their creative potential, to challenge outdated narratives, and to take pride in their cultural inheritance.’
Impressed by the bold initiative, one of the leading Benin artists, Enotie Ogbebor described the fair as a fantastic outing for an inaugural fair of such size, magnitude and variety of artists showing in a city like Benin.
He noted that the fair will create a platform for the promotion of art sales and production in Benin, a city noted for bronze casting, which were looted in 1897. Ogbebor highlighted the abundance of creative talents in Benin, adding that unknown to many, the modern Benin city artscape draws its creative energies from three major institutions training artists- University of Benin, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma and the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi.
“And we should not expect that every artist must go to Lagos to be successful, or must go to Abuja, or abroad. Technology has made it possible now to produce artworks anywhere, and to market and showcase them from anywhere.
For the packaging of the fair, he rated it as the best that has been held in Benin.
“I believe that the new facility- Thought Pyramid Arts Centre – will continue to help to propagate art, and it can only get better,” he said.
Though excited at the opening of the fair, one of the female artists who exhibited at the fair, Blessing Odigie, who is also a makeup artist, said Benin city is not in the league of Art Markets like Lagos or Abuja, as the ancient city is not there yet despite the thriving bronze casting business in Igun Street. She observed that bronze work seems to be the only work of art that makes meaning to the people in the city, adding that with increased awareness through events such as the Benin Art Fair, there is hope for a better and viable art market in Benin.
“With art events such as this on a regular basis, there will be improved awareness about the value of art and consequently it’s patronage by the people. The Benin Art Fair has opened such window for others to contribute to the development and growth of the sector. Thought Pyramid Arts Centre has set the pace for others to buy in. But, presently, as for art market, Benin is not there yet, but we are getting there soon. So, the Benin Art Fair is like our own Art X in Benin,” she said.
Another exhibitor Mrs Joval Oshone-Umoru commended the boldness of Chief Jeff Ajueshi who looked into the future of Edo State and decided to plant a gallery here in the first place.
“Big thumbs up to him. And my expectation from this fair is that people may not flock in multitudes and thousands yet like we have in Lagos, but it’s a stepping stone. And my hope is that from this, people get to understand art the more,” she added.
