The Nation Newspaper

Category: Life – The Midweek Magazine

  • Conversations in Transit goes on screens Friday

    Conversations in Transit goes on screens Friday

    After successful showings of its films such as The Johnsons, Wura, HUSH, Oloibiri and Voiceless, Native Media Limited will premiere its new film, Conversation in transit  on Friday December 20 on Circuits.

    The feature film is starring RMD, Osas Ighodalo, Alex Ekubo, Rahama Sadau, Uzee Usman, Tana Adelana and Tope Tedela, among other thespians.

    This was disclosed at a private screening attended by the film’s sponsors, TOLARAMS (Kelloggs Indomie Noodles, Guinness,  Munchit, lead actors, advertising partners, and select members of the press in Lagos. The film, shot on a moving train, explores the theme of love in its purest form one that heals, forgives, and transcends obstacles.

    CEO of Native Media, Rogers Ofime, who shared insights into the inspiration behind the film,  said that, in line with the project’s pioneering spirit, Native Media has partnered Circuits a new and innovative entrant into the VOD, virtual cinema market. Circuits is a pioneering virtual cinema for African content available to the global audience. As such, film lovers across the world will have access to watch Conversations in Transit upon its release on December 20.

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    Ofime emphasised the importance of collaboration and seeking new avenues to amplify the value of locally-produced content. “Together, we are stronger, and we must always find ways to earn from our own efforts,” he said. “Circuits offers fresh opportunities for content creators like us to reach wider audiences, and I’m excited about the potential this new platform holds.”

    With its unique approach to storytelling and distribution, Conversations in Transit promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the Nigerian film landscape.

    Stay tuned for more updates as Native Media continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

  • Foundation pushes for collaborative efforts in national development

    Foundation pushes for collaborative efforts in national development

    With a mind of promoting partnership as tool for National Development, the KOL Foundation has held a partnership accelerator and official launch programme.

    The event with the theme: Partnership: The Tool We Need For National Development, was aimed at emphasising the importance of collective action in addressing the complex challenges facing communities across the nation.

    Chairman, Project Champion, KOL Foundation, Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi, stated the need to ensure that the underserved communities across the country are, well taken care of and not neglected.

    She said that the most effective way  to create sustainable change is through collaboration with other forces, who knows what it takes to fix the daily problem of the regular Nigerian, to enable grassroots development.

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    “It’s a gathering and a meeting of great minds and people who are involved in nation building. We are here to communicate and ensure that the underserved communities across Nigeria are well taken care of and not neglected.

    “We realised that no one must be left behind for there to be actual nation building. Nation building is not only the job of governments, it’s a job of every active citizen and everybody who has an interest, every stakeholder of the country,” she said.

    According to Okunnu-Lamidi, true change extends beyond government and requires active citizen participation which often require multi-faceted solutions and a coordinated approach.

    She stated the need for foundations and NGOs to identify and implement responsibilities on areas to improve, rather than working in solos.

    “We’re calling out to all educational NGOs across the country. I think it’s because we’re not working together. I think we need to identify ourselves and give ourselves responsibilities on what areas to cover rather than everybody working in solos,” she said.

    Keynote Speaker, KOL Foundation Trustee, Yemi Candide-Johnson (SAN), spoke on the importance of philanthropy for national development.

    He stated the vital role philanthropy plays in national development, urging both individuals and organisations to step up their efforts in addressing the country’s most pressing challenges.

    He added that while government policies and large-scale infrastructure are essential, the grassroots impact of philanthropy cannot be underestimated.

    “Philanthropy reaches the places that other forms of aid or investment cannot. It touches lives directly, providing immediate relief, empowerment, and long-term opportunities,”

    The government should create space, facilitate their work with data on information access and security, so when they go to those places where they may even be more welcome than the political hands of government, that they can achieve results which are beneficial across the spectrum to all our communities, strengthening our nation, developing our nation, making every one of us, even those of us who have privilege, feel safe,” he said.

  • NCAC, NITDA partner on strategic alliance

    NCAC, NITDA partner on strategic alliance

    The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) are partnering to integrate Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries (CCI) with the country’s burgeoning digital and innovation ecosystems.

    Director-General of NCAC, Mr. Obi Asika, and his team met with the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, alongside his senior leadership team, at NITDA headquarters in Abuja to establish the collaborative framework.

    This alliance, according to a statement by the agencies, seeks to harness their strengths to drive growth, innovation, and digital transformation across Nigeria’s creative and cultural sectors.

    Seven key focus areas of the partnership include ICE Capacity-Building Programme: NCAC’s flagship programme, ICE (Innovate, Create, Empower), is designed to upskill participants in the cultural and creative industries.

    “With NITDA’s support, ICE will expand to 1,000 locations nationwide, targeting the training of 2 million Nigerians by 2027. NITDA will provide training facilities and digital labs to enhance the programme’s impact,” the statement added.

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    The partnership also covers Digital Platforms: NCAC, in collaboration with private sector partners, is developing digital platforms for cultural inventory, fan engagement, influencer marketing, subscription video-on-demand (SVOD), e-commerce, and capacity building. NITDA will provide support through local distribution networks and cloud services to strengthen these platforms.

    Infrastructure Development:

    NCAC has requested NITDA’s assistance in equipping its headquarters and zonal offices with computers, tablets, consumables, digital labs, and podcast studios to achieve digital transformation.

    Collaboration on Major Events:

    NCAC will mobilise its creative and cultural communities to participate in NITDA’s initiatives, including the highly anticipated GITEX Nigeria 2025,” it said.

    Others are BuyNigeria.ng Project:

    The agencies agreed to pilot BuyNigeria.ng, an e-commerce platform designed to bring Nigerian markets online. The initial phase will focus on markets in Kano, Lagos, Aba, and Abuja, fostering greater visibility and accessibility for traders and artisans while aligning with NCAC’s vision of enhancing productivity in the cultural and creative sectors.

    Joint Committee:

    A joint committee comprising directors from both NCAC and NITDA has been established to drive the partnership forward and ensure seamless implementation of shared initiatives and Nigeria’s Got Talent:

    NCAC’s Nigeria’s Got Talent platform will integrate NITDA’s digital literacy programs and gamified learning systems, creating opportunities for creatives to thrive in a digitally empowered environment.

    This partnership marks a significant step toward integrating Nigeria’s cultural heritage with cutting-edge digital innovation, unlocking limitless potential for the nation’s creative and digital economies.

  • High-energy celebration heralds Fuji Vibrations 2024

    High-energy celebration heralds Fuji Vibrations 2024

    The fifth edition of Fuji Vibrations was a resounding celebration of Fuji music, bringing together 6,431 concertgoers in Muri Okunola Park. It was a night of spectacular live performances, cultural pride, and an unmistakable reminder of Fuji music’s essence as one large, united family.

    Fuji music, like any family, is full of passion and diverse personalities, but its unbreakable bond always prevails. This year’s event, which was held  in collaboration with the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria, epitomised that spirit, bringing together Fuji’s best artistes as well as newcomers to celebrate the genre’s rich history.

    The night featured an electrifying lineup of 12 artistes: K1 De Ultimate, Shina Akani, Saheed Osupa, Abass Obesere, KS1 Malaika, Igwe Remi Aluko, Sulaimon Atawewe, SK Sensation, Lokoso Ajani, viral sensation Fatima Cinderella, Iyalode Fuji, Sikiru Lemon Fuji. The concert was given a modern twist by trailblazing DJ Kulet, whose high-energy set provided a fresh and dynamic take on Fuji music’s everlasting appeal.

    The energy inside Muri Okunola Park was palpable, as guests clad in the event’s signature print turned the venue into a vibrant sea of colours and patterns. Fuji Vibrations became a melting pot of music, fashion, and culture as attendees danced and sang till early in the morning.

    Read Also: Ogun 2027 and the cacophony of voices

    The presentation of a Special Recognition Award to K1 De Ultimate, which recognised his enormous contributions to Fuji music, was a highlight of the occasion. His performance was nothing short of magnificent, establishing his status as a living legend while also reminding everyone about the genre’s beginnings and evolution.

    Goldberg Lager Beer, Imperial Black Whisky, and UAC Foods helped make this year’s event a success. Goldberg Lager Beer refreshed concertgoers with chilled beer, adding to the evening’s joyous spirit. Imperial Black Whisky added a sense of elegance to its whiskey tasting area, providing fans with a premium experience that complemented the rich tones of Fuji music. UAC Foods provided much-needed refreshment to the audience by serving ice cream and bottled drinks.

    The founder of Fuji: A Opera, Bobo Omotayo, commented on the event’s success, saying, “Fuji Vibrations isn’t simply a concert—it’s a family reunion. Fuji music has always been about community, even in times of differences. This platform exists to honour our shared ancestry, reminding us that, despite our differences, we are stronger together. For five years in a row, Fuji: A Opera has brought fans closer to the heart of this amazing genre.”

    As the fifth edition concludes with overwhelming success, Fuji Vibrations is the beating core of Fuji music, a genre whose vivid energy and familial bond continue to resonate across generations.

  • Preserving Yoruba language, culture

    Preserving Yoruba language, culture

    By Abdulganiyu Muritala

    In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, cultural diversity is a precious asset to be celebrated and cherished. For Yoruba parents living in the diaspora, preserving their cultural heritage, primarily through language, becomes not just a choice but a necessity. As globalisation and cultural assimilation threaten the uniqueness of traditional cultures, the Yoruba diaspora community faces a critical challenge: maintaining their cultural identity abroad.

    Significance of preserving Yoruba language and culture is numerous. Yoruba language and culture enrich the cultural diversity of host countries, promoting cross-cultural understanding. Preserving them ensures the continuation of traditions, customs, and values. Indeed, language and culture shape individual and collective identity, connecting diaspora youth to their heritage; shared language and culture foster community cohesion and social bonds among Yoruba diaspora members. Preserving them also enables the transfer of knowledge, values, and traditions to future generations.

    One of the primary reasons why preserving the Yoruba language is essential is that it serves as a bridge to one’s roots and ancestral heritage. For Yoruba parents living abroad, teaching their children the Yoruba language is a way of ensuring that they stay connected to their cultural identity.

    Language as cultural DNA: Language is not merely a means of communication; it is a vessel that carries the history, values, and traditions of a community. The Yoruba language embodies the collective experiences, myths, and legends of the Yoruba people, making it an irreplaceable link to their ancestral roots.

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    Challenges in preserving Yoruba language and culture: language shift – younger generations prefer dominant languages (e.g., English); cultural assimilation – diaspora communities often adapt to host cultures; limited resources – access to Yoruba language education and cultural materials may be scarce; generational gap*: Different values and priorities among generations hinder cultural transmission.

    Also, the following strategies for preservation language education should be explored: establishing Yoruba language schools and programmes; organising of cultural events; exploring digital platforms, language learning apps, and online forums; encouraging intergenerational dialogue, cultural exchange and collaborations with Yoruba organisations, cultural institutions and government.

    In conclusion, preserving Yoruba language and culture in the diaspora is crucial for maintaining cultural identity, community cohesion, and intergenerational transmission. By acknowledging the challenges and implementing effective strategies, the Yoruba diaspora community can ensure the continued vibrancy of their cultural heritage by maintaining cultural identity, community cohesion, and ancestral connections. By teaching children the Yoruba language, parents can ensure their roots remain strong, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

    • Muritala is the Principal Assistant Antiquity protection officer at National Museum, Ile-Ife

  • Brown’s homage to Africa’s splendour

    Brown’s homage to Africa’s splendour

    Ini Brown’s solo exhibition tagged: Africa’s Splendour, made a deserved first at the rebranded ArtLab Gallery, Adam & Eve on Isaac John Street, Ikeja Lagos.

    The exhibition, which featured 50 artworks comprising  40 water colours, 10 acrylic oil on canvas, pen drawings and miniatures is a celebration of African rich culture, aesthetics and energies. It ran from November 1 to 23.

    The opening was attended by two media moguls Chairman/CEO Channels Media Group, John Momoh, his wife Sola, Vice Chairman Channels Media Group, and Abiola Dosunmu, Erelu Kuti of Lagos among other guests. 

    Curator of the exhibition, Lekan Onabanjo said ArtLab Gallery (The Content) started out with the aim of expanding awareness and the appreciation for the art by cultivating a new genre of art collectors as well as appealing to seasoned collectors to venture out of the confines of the Victoria Island and Ikoyi Lagos.

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    “At the beginning, exhibitions began with a showing of nine seasoned artists in Adam & Eve, a Homeware Store  in 2017 and culminating in the establishment of the ArtLab Gallery in 2024 has been an interesting one, which I’m glad to have been a part of. The ArtLab gallery is now debuting with a solo show ‘Africas’ Splendour” headlined by prolific watercolourist, Brown I have no doubts whatsoever that art enthusiasts, collectors and the viewing public will thoroughly enjoy being immersed in the works of Brown as he showcases works never previously shown, depicting the ruh and vibrant culture of Africa,” Onabanjo said.

    To the CEO of Adam & Eve, Mrs Modupe Ogunlesi, the essence of ArtLab Gallery is to provide opportunity for artists to showcase their works, which sometimes help many to reduce their stress levels when in contact  with the works of art.

    “Sometimes you just feel stressed up because there’s so much stress in town. So you can come in here and feel relieved of the stress. And then maybe in the process acquire two or three pieces, and that’s it. And you can decide to begin with Brown’s works because his work is relatable. For instance, this is Africa’s splendor. Look at the woman balancing her child on her back.  Look at the swagger.  She’s carrying the bread on her head hawking yet she’s answering the phone. So in spite of a difficult terrain, you can see the happiness. And this is how some women might have educated their children through this petit trading. It’s becoming more difficult, almost impossible now. These are things that might disappear. You don’t know.

    ‘‘When you go through Brown’s works, it’s like he’s inviting you to forget the stress of the job.” She noted that she likes artworks that uplift her.

    One of Brown’s paintings, Serene Passage is a breathtaking watercolour landscape, inviting the viewer to step into its tranquil world. Tree trunks seamlessly merge with lush foliage, while vibrant yellows and greens evoke freshness and vitality. A winding pathway, carpeted with fallen leaves, beckons exploration. Brown’s masterful technique creates remarkable depth, drawing the viewer into the scene. Figures subtly integrated into the composition add a sense of community. Soft, ethereal light permeates the painting, infusing it with serenity. Serene Passage is a testament to Browns skill, transporting the viewer to a peaceful, idyllic realm.

    Also, Riverine Harmony, a painting that captures  the aquatic life of people of the Niger Delta region, vividly captures the essence of life in that region. Thick green forests, majestic palm trees, and murky river waters converge, forming a lush backdrop. Women navigate their daily lives on the river, their movements fluid and serene. Brown’s bold brush strokes and vibrant colors evoke the regions unique spirit. The painting’s sense of balance and tranquility celebrates the beauty of traditional riverine life. Earthy tones and textured canvas add depth, drawing the viewer into this captivating scene. Riverine Harmony honours the rich cultural heritage of the Niger-Delta region.

    His other paintings are Morning grace, Casting the net, Beautiful covers, Aso Ebi elegance, Tender bond, Rusty brown roofs, River market harmony, Whispers of the forest, Urban tapestry, and Bountiful catch.

    Brown has held about 20 solo shows in Nigeria, South Africa, United States, Sweden, England, France and Germanyincluding Moods & Habits: Recent Masterpieces, a solo at Abuja. In 2018, he showed in “The Content, a group exhibition of watercolour masters at Adam and Eve, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

    Brown is recipient of first class honours from the Federal Polytechnic Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria, where he had his formal training in Fine Art. His works have garnered numerous accolades and commendations. Including mentions in books and publications, among which is Artist of Nigeria, by Onyema Offoedu-Okeke, a Ford Foundation Publication and an international publication, For Art’s Sake, A selection from The Yinka Fisher Collection, by Foundation for Contemporary & Mode Visual Art, Nigeria Artist: A Whos Who and Bibliography African Art, Smithsonian Institute, Washington DC, United States of America, USA.

  • Embracing change in AI, the future of publishing

    Embracing change in AI, the future of publishing

    By Evelyn Osagie, Oluwaseun Fakankun and Omolola Yekini

    Industry experts, educators, and thought leaders gathered for an insightful conference, themed “Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright.”

    The event, which was held at the Airport Hotel, was hosted by the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), led by its President, Chief Uchenna Cyril Anioke. It marked a significant moment in the country’s growing conversation about the role of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in reshaping industries.

    As the host, Chief Anioke, welcomed guests and set the stage for the day’s discussions, stating that as Nigeria continues to adapt to global technological trends, AI is fast emerging as a tool that is redefining how content is created, delivered, and protected through copyright.

    With the publishing industry at crossroads, the conference sought to explore the future of content creation in an increasingly digital world and the evolving role of AI, according to NPA president. As Nigeria continues to adapt to global technological trends, AI is fast emerging as a tool that could redefine how content is created, delivered, and protected through copyright.

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    He highlighted the need for greater government involvement in the publishing sector, particularly when it comes to curriculum development. “As a matter of national emergency, we call on the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Education, to actively involve publishers in any curriculum changes being proposed for the country. Publishers are integral to the actualisation of any educational reforms, yet we have often been excluded from these conversations. This is not acceptable.”

    Chief Anioke’s comments underscored a growing frustration among stakeholders in the publishing industry, who feel sidelined in discussions that ultimately impact their work. He pointed out that without publishers, the outcomes of curriculum changes—whether in textbooks, e-books, or other educational materials—would be unattainable. “If the government continues to make curriculum changes without engaging publishers, it will be tantamount to intellectual sabotage. It is essential that we work together to create a more collaborative approach to educational reform.

    He said: “For too long, we have been dependent on foreign paper mills to meet our printing needs. This reliance drains our foreign exchange reserves and stifles local development. We need the government to provide the fiscal and policy framework that will encourage private sector investment in paper mills across the country. Without functional paper mills, publishers and printers will continue to look outside Nigeria for cost-effective publishing and printing deals, leading to capital flight and a lack of technical skills. Other nations have made tremendous strides in education by publishing content in their native languages. Nigeria can do the same. TETFUND must be empowered to work with publishers, authors, and translators to produce educational content in our three major indigenous languages. This will not only improve literacy rates but will foster a deeper connection between students and the materials they study.”

    In his remark, the event’s Chairman, Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, FCA, emphasised the vital role of publishers in shaping the future of education and content creation in the country. However, he also stressed the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in the publishing ecosystem—authors, printers, booksellers, and even the government— to ensure that Nigeria is well-positioned to fully benefit from AI.

    “Publishers are at the heart of any meaningful transformation in the educational landscape. AI’s potential to revolutionise the way content is published and consumed. As we embrace technological advancements, particularly AI, we must remember that it is publishers who will ultimately bring those innovations to life through books, digital media, and other formats. It is crucial that we, as an industry, are not left behind.”

    The keynote speaker, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Dr. John Asein, took to the stage next, delivering a thought-provoking speech on the intersection of AI, content creation, and copyright. “We are living in a time where technology is outpacing the traditional structures of content creation and copyright,” Dr. Asein began. “As AI becomes more integrated into the content creation process, we must rethink how we protect intellectual property. Copyright laws must evolve to address the new realities of digital content and automated creation.”

    Dr. Asein’s remarks were a timely reminder of the delicate balance between innovation and protection in the digital age. As AI tools continue to revolutionise the content creation process, the challenge will be to protect the rights of creators while also embracing the opportunities offered by automation and artificial intelligence. “The challenge for regulators and policymakers is to ensure that AI enhances creativity and innovation without infringing upon the rights of the original creators In the coming years, we must work collaboratively to establish new frameworks that support both innovation and the protection of intellectual property.”

    As the conference ended, the attendees were energised by the possibilities that AI presents to the future of publishing, education, and copyright protection. The event highlighted both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, particularly as Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of intellectual property, education reform, and technological innovation. 

    The conversation quickly turned to how AI can help publishers and educators in the local context, a former Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Lagos, Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, shared his personal experience using AI principles in his approach to teaching. He recalled how his son struggled with exam preparations until he decided to apply AI-based analysis to the learning process.

    “I noticed traditional methods weren’t working for my son, so I analysed his study habits and adjusted the teaching process. By leveraging AI-driven insights, I was able to personalise his learning experience, and he went on to not only pass the exam but win an award for his performance,” ,” Avajah said.

    He spoke about the need to harness AI for the benefit of students in Nigeria, where traditional teaching methods often fail to cater to individual learning styles.   A highlight of the event was the recognition of several key individuals for their contributions to the development of the publishing and education sectors.

    The awardees included: Alhaji Jaiyeola, Chief Consultant at A.J. Silicon and past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), was recognised for his leadership and support of the publishing industry. Avajah received an award for his pioneering work in the integration of AI into engineering education and his contributions to the promotion of technology in Nigeria. Mr. David Oluwagbami, a representative from the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies at the University of Lagos, was honored for his work in advancing legal research and intellectual property law. Dr. Asein, NCC Director-General of received honorary fellowship for his efforts to protect intellectual property in the digital age and his leadership in shaping Nigeria’s copyright policy. A professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Lagos, Dr. (Mrs.) Chika Yinka-Banjo, was celebrated for her groundbreaking work in AI research and her commitment to responsible AI deployment. Other honorary fellowship awardees included received Chief N. O. Okereke;  Mr. Gbadega Adedapo  of Accessible Publishers; Dr. Hamid Bobboyi of UBEC; Dr. Kolade Mosuro of The Booksellers;, and Mr. Olakunle Sogbein  of  Quantum Educational Resources

    Nine members received fellowship training. They included Mr. Adebayo Lateef of Thursmay Publishers; Alh. Tahir Abdulaziz of Global Books & Publishing Ltd; Mr. Henry Idogun  of  Metropolitan Publishers; Sir Jesse Odu of Alliance Publications; Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi of CSS Bookshops; Mr. Lanre Anulopo of Bounty Press Ltd; Dr. Samuel Okere  of Babcock University Press; Dr. Mathias Sunday of University of Calabar Press, and Mr. Femi Adenakan of AFEM Publishers Ltd.

  • Irie Vibes Fest revels music, cancer advocacy

    Irie Vibes Fest revels music, cancer advocacy

    By Omolola Yekini and Ifayinka Ajayi

    The organisers of an art and health initiative against cervical cancer, Irie Vibes Fest, are thrilled to announce the 7th edition of the festival. A part of the interesting lineups at the 2024 Lagos Fringe, Irie Vibes Fest is scheduled for Thursday November 21, 2024, at the Freedom Park, Lagos Island, by 5pm.

    A statement released on Saturday said the festival’s free health screenings will commence by 5pm to be followed by a series of breathtaking reggae music performances starting from 7pm till late in the evening.

    Founded by Lucia Ikediashi of Shimmers Services and Omotola Ibeh of 09.16 Enterprises, Irie Vibes is not just a celebration of Nigeria’s rich artistic culture, it is a transformative initiative dedicated to empower women through education and cervical cancer prevention campaigns.

    Founder of Irie Vibes Fest, Lucia Ikediashi said: “We will provide free screenings for all women attending the event, ensuring vital health services are accessible to the community. These screenings are crucial, as early detection significantly increases survival rates and provides women with the opportunity to prioritise their health”.

    Furthermore, Ikediashi enjoined the public to be part of the historic event while also laying emphasis on the importance of regular screening with a promise that attendees at the 2024 outing will be equipped with essential knowledge about their health and well-being.

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    Co-founder of Irie Vibes Fest, Omotola Ibeh revealed that Irie Vibes is more than a reggae festival. She said: “It’s a celebration of life and a constant reminder of the power of music and art to bring people together for one simple reason; the awareness of this disease plus the solution to reduce cervical cancer”. She added that the most beautiful part of it all, is that the music concert offers the much needed tests for free, right at the Irie Vibes venue.

    This year, the festival promises an inspiring lineup of artistic performances that will illuminate women’s stories, highlighting their struggles, achievements, and resilience while fostering a deeper understanding of cervical health.

    The general public is invited to attend Irie Vibes Fest 2024 as their presence is crucial in cultivating a supportive community that champions women’s health. The event is for friends, families and those ready to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity for health screenings and education.

    Irie Vibes Fest is a reggae concert for cervical cancer awareness. Free cervical cancer screenings are held at the event with results given on the spot. The goal is to use entertainment to reduce deaths from cervical cancer by providing these screenings twice every year. In May, Irie Vibes team visited some rural communities in Lagos. In November, Irie Vibes will be at the 2024 Lagos Fringe Festival.

  • Ogunlaja promotes Alaga art in UK

    Ogunlaja promotes Alaga art in UK

    “I want you to stretch your two hands and say, ‘everything I touch is blessed.’ I want you to touch your legs, and say, ‘my steps are ordered of the Lord.”

    These words, spoken by Oyindamola Ogunlaja, the Creative Lead of Ajoke Araloge, guide a bride through her traditional marriage ceremony. You might think she is the officiating clergy or perhaps even the hired singer after hearing her sing – roles she seamlessly embodies as an Alaga in Yoruba traditional weddings. As she directs the bride, Oyindamola moves fluidly between English and Yoruba, her voice weaving blessing after blessing.

    “Everything you do is blessed. Your children will arise, and they will call you blessed. Your husband will arise and call you blessed,” she continues, then addresses the audience in Yoruba with more prayers for the couple. Turning back to the bride, she concludes in English, “You will not bury your children. Your children will surround your table round-about, Jesu, Oluwa wa.”

    Under her guidance, the bride goes to her knees for the parental prayers, as Oyindamola, with warmth and tradition, keeps the ceremony flowing. This traditional marriage between Morenike Adeeko and Yomi Oloyede, held in August 2023 at Orsett Hall in Grays, UK, is one of many brought to life by Oyindamola’s masterful command of the Alaga role.

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    With her extensive knowledge of Oriki (eulogies) and songs from various Nigerian tribes, clans, and communities, Ogunlaja has made a profound impact on both individuals and society at large. She has presided over more than 200 traditional wedding events locally and internationally, and has trained over 150 aspiring Alagas. Her vision now is to see the Alaga art formally recognised within the United Kingdom’s Arts and Culture industry.

    The Alaga tradition, rooted in Yoruba culture, has gradually spread beyond Nigeria’s borders, resonating with diverse communities and enriching weddings worldwide. As globalisation bridges distances, our world becomes more and more a global village as predicted by Marshall McLuhan, and inter-racial marriages have further facilitated the spread of the Alaga tradition. The Alaga, with her unique blend of storytelling, prayer, and music, finds an appreciative audience among inter-racial and multicultural couples eager to incorporate rich cultural elements into their weddings.

    Like an oral historian, through her art and her training of the next generation, Oyindamola ensures that cultural values and traditions endure, passed from one generation to the next. Today, it has become increasingly fashionable for couples to honour their heritage in wedding ceremonies. The Alaga, such as Oyindamola, plays an essential role by not only compering these events but also guiding couples through traditional customs and ceremonies.

    Ogunlaja’s background is a blend of expertise in education, culture, and international affairs. A 2010 graduate of Tai Solarin University of Education, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication, she continued her studies with a Master’s in Public and International Affairs from the University of Lagos in 2019. In 2023, she completed another Master’s in International Management Operations from Teesside University, United Kingdom.

    Professionally affiliated with Skilled Alaga Certified Professionals and the Association of Professional Party Organisers and Event Managers of Nigeria, Oyindamola has also earned certifications in Wedding and Events Management and completed an Advanced Workshop on Alaga Iduro and Ijoko practices in 2019.

  • Irapada: Durodola’s advocacy tool for safer environment

    Irapada: Durodola’s advocacy tool for safer environment

    Nigeria’s multidisciplinary artist and environmentalist Yusuf Durodola has said there is nothing more challenging to humanity now than environmental pollution. He stated that indiscriminate dumping of wastes on the drainage systems across many cities of the world continues to endanger lives and properties in many nations. He noted that using his art as advocacy tool, peoples’ minds can be influenced to have a positive attitude towards the environment.

    “And at the end of the day these same people will be calling on government for help. But, who are the government? Who are the people that are abusing the environment? They are the same people that are begging for help,” Durodola said.

    Durodola, who spoke at a preview session of his solo art exhibition tagged Irapada: Re-Interpretation of Discarded Materials opening tomorrow at The Nike Art Gallery, Abuja, noted that waste becomes waste ‘when we don’t know what to do with it.’

    “When flood is damaging lives and properties why are we complaining? We don’t need to complain because we impregnated the earth and that is the way I see it. We polluted the environment by our actions,” he added. 

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    Irapada is a Yoruba word meaning to revive something or in this context means recycling or up-cycling. It is also a way to revive a used item and give it a second chance to live. The solo exhibition, which will feature 16 discarded materials artworks and a 2016 video performance, (five drawings generated from the pre-production of the performance Ominira), captures the symbiotic relationship between man and his immediate environment. It also projects the power of mindset and possible transformation in recycling/upcycling our wastes in harnessing environmental sustainability.

    The Lagos-based artist uses found objects from auto mobile gadget, electronics, day to day items from phones and computer sets to give life back to found objects.

    He recalled that his love for recycling started in 2014 while at the University of Lagos working on a project that bothers on Guinness world record. This, he said, he later shelved due to financial constraint. “I decided to think of something else, which led me to documenting the vice chancellor of the varsity then. I told myself then that if I can use this skill to create massive and amazing works, it will change people’s minds including their orientation. Then I began to understand the definition of trash. What we call trash or waste is not the action, it is in the mind. When the mind see’s something and says this is a waste you will never see anything good coming out of that thing. The same way as am producing the object, I am relating it to human life because I see life through those objects. Now, when we talk about God, as human beings, we are the extension of God because God created us in his own image. Now, when we create some of these waste items they are our extensions because they carry our imprints.” 

    “As we are dropping things on the floor we are impregnating the earth and the earth will give birth and so if the trash is what we put into the pregnancy, what kind of baby are we expecting?” he asked.

    Some of the works are for display include Treasures in disguise, Knowing unknown, Eleyinju ege, The dream, the joy and the passion, Pensive IV, Beyond the look, Morayo, Culture ambassador, Precious,  They think I did not see them,  and Symbol of joyful mind.  

    In a foreword to the exhibition brochure, founder Nike Art Gallery International, Chief Nike Okundaye said Durodola’s mastery extends beyond repurposing discarded materials as it challenges how ‘we approach exhibitions and everything that surrounds them.’ She notes that the exhibition represents not only his continuous ascent in the recycled/up-cycled art world but a shift in perspective for all who engage with his collectibles.

    According to her, Ìràpadà: Re-interpretation of Discarded Materials, symbolizes a kind of rebirth and invites viewers to shed old ways of seeing, sparking within us fresh insight and creative possibilities. “The transformative power of this exhibition lies in its ability to inspire, to remind us that nothing is beyond reach if we are determined to achieve it. This, and so much more, is what Yusuf Durodola continues to prove through his art and vision,” she added.

    On Day 2 of the exhibition, the artist will be handling 30 students in pet bottles recycling workshop and also reactivate their minds in the cordial connection that they have with the space they live. The workshop tagged:  “Creative exploration of discarded materials as a medium of visual expression” is organised by Nike Art Foundation in collaboration with Artegun Foundation.