The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • ‘My art aids personal, spiritual growth’

    ‘My art aids personal, spiritual growth’

    US-based Nigerian sculptor Femi Olajire Akande has said his hybrid artworks, which are rendered in ceramic engender moral, spiritual upliftment and growth of the viewer. This he said also showcases the beauty, social and cultural values of the narratives in the Holy Bible and African folklores. 

    “The beauty in these works lie not necessarily in aesthetic value, but their capacity to increase one’s knowledge and curiosity towards religion and African values,” he said, adding  that ‘African culture and philosophy play major influence in my life as an artist. I desire my artworks to breathe life changing effects into the souls of my audience.’

    One of his works that depicts the spiritual theme is entitled I Offer You My Life, which was inspired by Donald James Moen, an American Singer, pianist and songwriter of Christian Worship Music. The referenced song track, “Lord I Offer You My Life,” is re-imaged in 3 dimensional forms, on a big vessel, glazed, stoneware ceramic- sculpture. It’s divided into three segments. The first segment is the sculptural female figure on top of the vessel, sacrificing her heart to God.

    “The second segment is the stone altar, which symbolises readiness and preparedness for God while the third segment depicts the result of sacrificing one’s heart/life to God, a life filled with beautiful colors. Some lyrics of the song were aesthetically and literarily adapted on the surface of the vessel. God does not need our money, gifts or earthly possession but a pure and sacred heart of worship and love for our fellow man.

    “If we do that, He will take care of all our needs, wishes and dreams that are yet to come true. In the Bible, Cain, Abel, Abraham and Solomon among others offered sacrifices to God and the Lord saw their hearts of giving before their offerings were accepted or rejected.”

    Akande said there were many Christian-oriented schools in America shaping the lives of seekers of truth like him. The artist, who infuses his art with religious and social commentaries, explained how his religious orientation with some Christian institutions in America spurred his series on Peace Building.

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    “My engagement with Houston Christian University, (HCU) Houston, Texas institution in America has significantly influenced my peace building thematic research.  HCU is a peaceful university that seeks to develop students of character and competence by providing opportunities to engage in a Christ-centered community focusing on academic success, spiritual formation, interpersonal development and physical well-being. 

    “The university’s mission is to provide a learning experience that instills in students a passion for academic, spiritual, and professional excellence as result of our central confession, “Jesus Christ is Lord”.  While the university’s core conviction and values are –poised and ready to meet the academic and spiritual needs of the next generation of world-class learners, I received a lot of inspirations and significance influence in Professor Louis Markos, HUM 5381 Special Top: The Bible in Art course. 

    “He thought; -the Christian worldview on peace, the call to be a peace maker in a world of conflict (Matthew 5:23-24, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20), the importance of living in harmony with others (Romans 12:16, 1 Corinthians 1:10), importance of personal relationship with God, love, forgiveness and obedience to His will, as the path to true and lasting peace, among many other visual illustrations and practical art projects. 

    “Christian teachings provide a moral and ethical foundation for promoting peace, justice, and human dignity.  These education and training opportunities equipped me with skills, knowledge and spurred the peace building thematic research in my art.”

  • Booksellers Association of Nigeria gets new exco

    Booksellers Association of Nigeria gets new exco

    The Booksellers Association of Nigeria (BAN) has announced its newly elected Executive Committee, led by the Managing Director of Consolidated Books LTD, Dapo Fisayo, as President.

    According to the BAN, its new executives will steer the association’s vision from 2024 to 2026, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s publishing landscape.

    The Fisayo-led executive also has distinguished individuals who would be bringing their wealth of experience and passion for the booksellling world to the association. They include Moses MC-Daniel, from Progressive Educational Services in Kaduna, who would be assuming the role of 1st Vice President (North), while Elder Linus Dike of Linus Books in Port Harcourt, would be stepping into the position of second Vice President (South).

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    The administrative backbone of the association is reinforced by Johnson Abdul of CSS Bookshops Limited, Lagos, as General Secretary, and Jemiyotan A. Brikinns of Mosuro – The GC Booksellers, Ibadan, as Assistant General Secretary. Roberts Lawson of Tyl Ventures takes on the responsibilities of Treasurer, with Tony Ichibe of The Book Company, Lagos, serving as Financial Secretary.

    In a bid to enhance communication and outreach, Tony Akpokene of The Flomat Books, Asaba, has been elected as the Public Relations Officer, tasked with fostering stronger ties between BAN and the wider community.

  • Promoting tourism at councils

    Promoting tourism at councils

    For two days, tourism experts converged on Lagos State Staff Development Centre, Magodo Lagos at the weekend to enrich the capacity and skills of tourism officers at the local government level in the state. The gathering, which was at the instance of the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training, in collaboration with the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN), Lagos Chapter, featured presentations that are in sync with ‘Business Principles and Strategic planning for Community-Based Tourism,’ theme of the training session.

    National President, Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN) Mr Abiodun Odusanwo described the training as special and essential to help move tourism from a local community to a national level.

    He stated that the programme is a bottom-up approach whereby those that were trained, will have the intellectual competence to actually promote and move tourism from a local community to a national level as well as promote the economy of the community.

    He said: “The two day programme is a National program for tourism officers at the community level, tourism is local and therefore it is essential that those who operate at that level have a very good comprehension of their own and their position, with them as community officers. We’re looking at a bottom up approach whereby if they were trained, they will have the intellectual competence and the competence to actually promote and move tourism from a local community to a national level.

    He added that part of the benefits of the training is to enable the officers to be conversant as to worth of things within their local area, for them to know the heritages and attractions that exists in their area.

    “Tourism involves security, mobility, connectivity, all the environmental factors need to be very understood and see how those issues and challenges can be turned to opportunities to ensure that tourism grows within the local environment in such a way that will promote the economy of that particular environment so that collectively, business can thrive,” he said.

    Chairman, ITPN Lagos Chapter, Dr. Babatunde Olaide-Mesewaku, said that the training focuses on community-based tourism in local governments, while taking participants through various subject matters such as the concept of tourism and introducing them to its various aspects.

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    He stated that the training also entails introducing the officers to how the people in their different local governments can benefit from practicing or implementing community-based tourism.

    “Community-Based Tourism is about the people. It is tourism by the people, for the people and the tourist. If they can abide with the principles and features of implementing the principles that we have been able to put them through today, there are several benefits this will impact on the state.

    Economic benefit is very huge and it will impact the quality of lives of people in Lagos state, especially in the local government. The social life of the people will improve because there will be more synergy between the local government and the stakeholders and when we talk about the state holders in community based tourism,” he said. 

    He added that if the trainings are implemented holistically and genuinely, poverty rate will reduce and job opportunities will be created in the state.

    Mesewaku who spoke on Strategic planning process for community based tourism said that Community-based tourism (CBT) aims at focusing on empowering local communities and fostering sustainable development while providing authentic and enriching experiences for tourists.

    To achieve the objectives, he said there must be strategic planning processes that involve a systematic approach to defining the vision, goals, and actions necessary to develop and manage tourism initiatives within a community. He listed stakeholder engagement, vision and goal setting, situation analysis, market research, product development, capacity building, partnerships and collaboration, marketing and promotion, monitoring and evaluation as parts of the planning processes to achieving the objectives.

    He stated that community-based tourism offers numerous benefits to both travelers and local communities, but it also faces various threats that can undermine its sustainability and success. But, he however identified some of the threats to include political will on the part of leadership at the local government, low level of awareness of tourism potential, budgetary provision, over-commercialization, loss of cultural authenticity, environmental degradation, social disruption, lack of community involvement, limited infrastructure and services and external competition.

    Other presenters included Mrs Chinyere Uche-Ibeabuchi (Basic tourism concepts), Mrs Abiodun Gloria (Understanding community-based tourism: Definition, characteristics, principles and examples of community-based tourism), Mr. Rotimi Odeyemi (Marketing and Promotion of community-based tourism resources).

    President, Lagos State Tourism Officers and Trainee, Damilare Shoye, lauded the actions of the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training for partnering ITPN for capacity development opportunity.

    He added that the program was special and will help in developing themselves personally and professionally.

    “A great lot to achieve, it is normal training for career development, there is no doubt about that. We’ll develop ourselves with it, both personal and career development. For professional reasons, since yesterday we’ve gained a lot since we’ve started the training, and it’s going to help us career wisely and help us to develop ourselves personally,” he said.

    He advised the team to seize the opportunity so that whatever education being shared will reflect in their various areas.

     “Lagos state is known for the best that it why they call it the center of excellence, it’s part of the lagos state plan to continue to develop servers that they’ll continue it runs this time and this is one of the ways I’m which Lagos state is developing its staff, be it state of local level.

    My colleagues, I’ll advise us to seize this opportunity so that whatever education we get here in this wonderful training, let it have a bearing on the way we work, in our local governments, in our duties and we’ll continue to improve on ourselves further,” he said.

  • ‘Emergency hospitals critical to health care delivery’

    ‘Emergency hospitals critical to health care delivery’

    A South Africa-based Nigerian medical doctor and founder Comfort Medical Emergency Hospital, Idimu, Lagos Dr. Sunday Joseph Aigbodion has said that not having an emergency hospital is a recipe for catastrophic leading to many avoidable deaths and disabilities. He has therefore called for the establishment of more Medical Emergency Hospitals. 

    He noted that many people have died because of ignorance that there is an aspect of medicine that’s emergency, which is an evolving practice whereby acutely ill patients visit and they get stabilised before being referred to a specialist hospital.

    Citing the case of the late Super Eagles Coach Stephen Keshi, he said Keshi died of what is called ‘thromboembolism.’ “He went to a hospital complaining that his leg was paining him, the calf area. For somebody who has been active over the years, if he is not too active again, his blood vessels, the circulation may be sluggish and slow. If you sit down too long in a particular place or on a long flight, the leg may be swollen and painful due to blood clots there.

    “I read that when he went to the hospital, and he told them that his leg was paining him, a good doctor should have examined him to know what is happening there. That man should not move, tell him to sit down. There is one small medicine that can reverse it; it is aspirin, which is one of the cheapest medicines available. Give it to him to chew and drink water, and the clot will dissolve. But they said no, there is nothing; and gave him a pain relief medicine (an analgesic and antipyretic agent used to treat fever and mild to moderate pain) to drink, and he was told to go. Before he got home, that clot moved from his calf to the heart and stopped it. And that’s all,” he said. 

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    Aigbodion identified some sudden death and collapse that are unknown to many because they can move up and down. “Some people are moving up and down, and they don’t know that they have high blood pressure; some are moving up and down, and they don’t know that they have diabetes; they don’t know that they even have high cholesterol. These are the causes of sudden death and sudden collapse,” he added.

    Continued, he said: “Here, we have a mobile patient trolley. If somebody come here as an emergency, we can put the person in here. And we have what is called multiparameter patient Monitor. This is a standard that is obtainable elsewhere in oversea. If a person is brought in here, you must do a holistic examination of the person. You cannot just say that because the person just complained of abdominal pain, then you leave the heart. And most abdominal pain can come from the heart. If you don’t check you don’t get it.  So, this machine is called Patient Monitor. It is computerised; and even when the patient is unconscious, that’s cannot talk, this one can tell you what‘s going on inside the heart, the chest, and the circulation. From there you’ll be able to regulate or control one or two vital signs to keep the patient alive.” 

    He stressed the need for medical emergency hospitals as emergencies happen every day, everywhere and to anyone both children and adults irrespective of profile or status.

    He stated that emergency care is, therefore, required to respond to a wide range of conditions including injuries, infections, cardiac arrest, heart attacks, strokes, asthma, complications of pregnancy, etc.

    Dr. Aigbodion who spoke at the close of the two-day free medical outreach in Lagos organised by the hospital, said that medical outreach was informed by the need to sensitise the people that there are some deaths and disabilities that avoidable. He disclosed that it was also to inform people living within and outside the community that there is now a well-equipped emergency hospital with trained emergency care professionals around them.

    “Government alone can’t do it. We who have been privileged to be abroad need to come back home touch lives and contribute our little quota to the development of our beloved country Nigeria,” he stated.

    He said that on the first day of the two-day free medical outreach, about 108 adults were registered, and on the second day, 120 adults also registered for the programme, while about 100 children were in attendance but not registered.

    “During the outreach, children were dewormed and Vitamin A was given to them. For the adults, vital signs were checked (BP, pulse, temperature, weight, respiration). Free laboratory tests such as Malaria Parasite, HIV 1&11, Hepatitis B&C virus, Blood sugar, Total Cholesterol, etc were also offered and other laboratory tests recommended by doctors were done at a subsidised rate. There were free consultations as we had three doctors on the ground.”

    He said that free drugs like anti-malaria, anti-hypertensive, antibiotics, anti-diabetics, analgesics, antihistamines, multivitamins, hematinic were given to all who attended the outreach. “In subsequent editions, some surgical procedures such as myomectomy, thyroidectomy, herniorrhaphy, lumpectomy, excision biopsies, etc will be incorporated, and surgical fees will be highly subsidised,” said Aigbodion, assuring that the outreach will be an annual event. 

  • Interrogating good governance, nation building at Kongi’s feast

    Interrogating good governance, nation building at Kongi’s feast

    Art communities in Nigeria and the UK will have a harvest of feasts to mark the Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday. Expectedly, the celebrations will explore ideas on national interest, good governance, and nation-building. Beginning from July 11 to 27, the annual Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE), in partnership with other agencies, will host the events at various locations, Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME reports

    Organisers of the annual Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE), have disclosed that the 15th edition of the programme will hold in two tranches:  July 13 to 16 (virtual and onsite) in Nigeria; and July 19 to July 27 in London.

    Its Executive Producer, Dr. Teju Kareem, who spoke on the theme of this year’s edition: Engaging National Interest on Good Governance, Understanding and Nation-Building (E.N.I.O.G.U.N), said: “Prof. Soyinka has pursued the betterment of society through his support for freedom and the common good of all irrespective of age, class, gender, religious or political persuasions — making his work a global service to humanity. His career spanning academia, literature, and activism exemplifies a profound commitment to creating a just and equitable world, thus encapsulating the essence of E.N.I.O.G.U.N as both a personal and a universal pursuit.”

    Organised in collaboration with partners located in Nigeria and overseas, the edition is coinciding with the 90th birthday anniversary (July 13) of the Nobel laureate, Prof Oluwole Akinwande Soyinka, whose exceptional life story and as well illustrious career as a quintessential artist and global humanist, inspired the birth of the project in 2010.

    The general theme is premised on the general condition of humanity, but specifically for this milestone edition, it is focused on Nigeria, Soyinka’s land of birth to which he has devoted his life-long career as a multi-talented/skilled artist, public intellectual and as well, human/civil rights activist. Specifically, this year’s theme is a summation of the over seven decades commitment and struggles of Soyinka as a nationalist, patriot, and humanist — as can be gleaned from his voluptuous creative works and consistent public engagement.

    In particular, the theme E.N.I.O.G.U.N is to sum up his life-long commitment to the cause of nation building through his relentless fight for the national interest that would ensure good governance for the wellbeing of the general citizenry. While the theme domiciles appreciation of Soyinka’s commitment to his birth country, Nigeria, it is by extension an appreciation of his global service to humanity in general, which has seen him advocating for justice, freedom and respect for the rights and freedom of citizens all over the world. The theme will be the focus of all the programme items of the edition.

    The celebration will include Essay Writing, Advocacy, Do Your Own Thing and Performances. The programme is designed to celebrate the values and virtues of Soyinka all grounded in his struggles to ensure social and cultural justice, freedom from all forms of shackles and, respect for the fundamental human and civil rights of all.

    The youth section of the edition will focus on the central motif of the project: mentoring and grooming the new generation of thinkers and eventual leaders who would work for the overall national interest of lifting their country and their society to greater heights of human and material development.

    On July 13, at Ijegba Forestage, Abeokuta, Ogun State, there will be students essay writing and excerpts from previous winners’ essays; youth creative expression (Do Your Own Thing) and culture house reception.  For this edition, 90 students will write the essay in the full glare of the public, including their parents/guardians, teachers as well as other members of the public.

    In its 15th year, the annual WSICE essay competition has garnered over 10,000 essays written by students, mostly the Senior Secondary Students (SSS) cadre in the age range 12-17 years old. It has also conferred over 90 prizes on winners in at least 23 states of Nigeria, as well as 30 winners from five linguistics zones of the world. These students would be drawn from around Nigeria writing on the theme: The many lives of an irresistible patriot, humanist, and rights activist. The objective is to deepen their understanding of the dynamics of nation building, especially to think through the examples already established through Wole Soyinka’s personal life and intervention in public discourses and engagements. Winners of the essay writing competitions will be unveiled on July 13, the actual birthday of the patron saint of the project.  The entries in English language will be 800 words minimum in text volume.

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    After the reception for the winners, over 1000 youths will converge at the WSICE theatre site in Soyinka’s backyard, to engage in a hybrid Do-Your-Own-Thing open-air creative expressions. The event will be live televised and streamed via various social media platforms. This will be followed by an evening of sight & sound designed in creative performances — music, drama, dance, poetry and spoken words, fashion parade, craft displays and film screening, among others.

    There will also be a presentation of The Noble Warrior – ENI OGUN, at June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta on July 13. A theatrical masterpiece, written by Aiyeko-ooto Onadele, and produced by Adubiifa Network Company in collaboration with WSICE, which explores themes of bravery, struggle, and the human spirit, resonating deeply with Soyinka’s literary legacy. But, in Lagos, Soyinka’s classic, The Lion and the Jewel will be on stage by Live Theatre Lagos from July 12 to14, and July 19 to 21 at RadissonBlu Anchorage, Victoria Island Lagos and Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The advocacy session of this year’s edition will hold in collaboration with the Nigeria Academy of Letters, (NAL), on July 11.  The session will be followed by a dinner reception for guests.

    LAGOS – LONDON CELEBRATION

    Crafted on the theme, Nine Season of KONGI, and to be hosted by the famous The Africa Centre, this is an international event rooted in the concept of charity-begins-at-home, the event will feature a multi-podal programme content, including: African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y (AI) – at the prestigious Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka, a   visionary exhibition project, curated under the Vision of the Child (VoTC) umbrella, to promote creativity, education, and social transformation across the continent. Dotting on the theme Redefining African Identity through Integrity (In celebration of Wole Soyinka at 90), the exhibition, The African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y initiative, is conceived from the themes of the 2013 and 2014 editions of VoTC:  “Good Governance and Democracy in Nigeria” and “One Thousand and One Faces of Corruption” – which were themes conceived  by Soyinka himself while serving as project supervision and grand patron for the VoTC and the Lagos Black Heritage Festival, LBHF,  the annual project promoted by the Lagos State Government under the then Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. With a focus on promoting good governance and democracy amidst the challenges of corruption, AI encapsulates the essence of Africa through the principles of diversity, economic development, nationhood, trade, innovation, talent, and youthfulness. Also, WS: A LIFE IN FULL, an exhibition of portraits of the laureate from childhood through adulthood, a collection of drawings and paintings by different artists of varying ages and persuasions will be exhibited. The works are sourced from personal collections of Soyinka as well as the WSICE Art Gallery located in Abeokuta, Ogun State. 

    The UK leg of the celebration will feature the London premiere of THE MAN DIED, the feature film inspired by Soyinka’s classic prison memoir of same title. Featuring top bills in Nigerian film industry, including Wale Ojo, Sam Dede, Nobert Young, Francis Onwochei, Abraham Amkpa, and others, the film is directed by Awam Amkpa, Soyinka’s former student and professor of Theatre, Media and Cultural Aesthetics at the New York University, Abu-Dhabi, where he is currently Dean of Humanities and Deputy Provost.

  • Fola David eyes world record for largest drawing by individual

    Fola David eyes world record for largest drawing by individual

    Doctor-cum-artist Dr. Fola David has announced plans to break World record for largest drawing by an individual titled “Unity in diversity”.

    In the lead up to the historical drawing which will last six days from July 16, David said he will be unveiling ‘the road to record’ from where he will also draw inspiration for the historical drawing.

    He explained that the drawing billed to hold at Onikan stadium, Lagos spans over 850m2 while the monumental artwork will depict a map of Nigeria showing its myriad tribes through their unique attires, languages, art and essence.

    According to him, the ‘Unity in Diversity’ project will be executed in partnership with Tolaram group to illuminate Nigeria’s vibrant cultural mosaic through an immersive journey spanning visual art, documentary, and cultural celebration.

    David, in a statement, explained further the project entails three different phases, including Road to Record, the World Record Attempt itself and RepYourTribe Carnival.

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    “There will be a cultural oddysey filming which will capture a mesmerizing road trip across different states of Nigeria which will then form basis for their depiction on the
    world record drawing and create a documentary called the ‘Road to Record’.

    “There will also be ‘RepYourTribe Carnival’ aimed at celebrating diverse cultures. A call to every Nigerian to showoff their tribe using the hashtag #repyourtribe on all online platforms and a physical celebration carnival live at the Stadium grounds alongside the creation of the world record drawing, a digital and physical extravaganza, honoring Nigeria’s cultural tapestry,” he explained.

    David, who is also a speed painter, stressed the project aimed to incorporate the hearts and stories of Nigerians living together despite their different cultures and tradition.

    Managing Director of Tolaram Group, Haresh Aswani said: “This project is not just about breaking records; it’s about uniting hearts, fostering understanding, and promoting peace among Nigeria’s diverse communities.”

    “In collaboration with esteemed partners including the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Nigerian Tourism Development Agency, Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, National Gallery of Art, Lagos State Government, and National Troupe of Nigeria, the project is poised to make a lasting impact,” David said.

  • Alagbaoso urges enablement for emerging writers

    Alagbaoso urges enablement for emerging writers

    Uthman Qasim, the secretary of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Abuja chapter writes on the importance of a writer in a society at a crossroads. He reports on the monthly ANA readings that happens to keep the literary terrain ever alive and active. Here also Jerry Alagbaoso, seasoned politician and historian, stands in for Nigerian authors and more.

    On Saturday, April 27th, 2024, the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village in Mpape, buzzed with literary fervour as the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Abuja chapter, hosted its April Reading/Writers Dialogue. The event, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s literary calendar, featured highly regarded guest author Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso, a figure renowned for his multifaceted contributions to Nigerian literature and politics.

    Hon. Alagbaoso, a historian, educationist, playwright, and three-term Member of the Federal House of Representatives, captivated the audience with his insightful remarks. Addressing aspiring writers, he underscored the timeless importance of literature in shaping societal consciousness and preserving cultural heritage. While emphasizing the enduring legacy of written works, he observed that ” living books for generations yet unborn, explains why it is often said that if you don’t want to die, write books”.  He further encouraged budding writers to take action without delay and to use different opportunities to share their narratives with the world, the guest author further cautioned against self-defeatism, paranoia, and procrastination. “Potential writers must write as explorers and must get enough nerves and rid themselves of bottled-untold stories.”

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    Drawing from his latest plays, the guest author offered insights into the themes explored in his works. Sipping Coffee with My Boss, he explained that the work delves into the corruption and intrigues pervasive in tertiary institutions, shedding light on societal ills that demand urgent attention. Meanwhile, Champagne to the High Table confronts issues of class disparity and cultural erosion, condemning the mistreatment of the underprivileged and the erosion of community values. The play criticizes metaphorically, the elitist practice of serving champagne exclusively to the privileged few, while relegating the masses to mere soft drinks, underscoring the need for societal equity and justice. He also acknowledged that his works usually address pressing social issues, including drug abuse, indecent dressing, gender conflicts, and the disparity in education access for children.

    Hon. Alagbaoso did not forget to draw attention to a critical issue plaguing Nigerian writers: the lack of support from publishers, sponsors, and promoters. He emphasized the stark contrast with the Western world, where significant investments are made in writers. He further lamented that despite the talent and relevance of Nigerian writers’ works, they often struggle to find sponsors or financiers, leading to barriers in publishing their works. He urged the Association of Nigerian Authors to step into this void and become an agent for socio-economic and political change. He advocated for ANA to take proactive measures such as sponsoring bills, garnering media attention, lobbying, and engaging with government officials to address this pressing issue.

    Earlier in his opening remarks, Arc. Chukwudi Eze, Chairman of the Association’s Abuja chapter, lauded the guest author’s journey across various domains. Eze hailed Alagbaoso’s versatility as a playwright, historian, educator, politician, and philanthropist, noting that his career serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and agents of change. He commended Alagbaoso’s dedication to serving his country and community with integrity and unwavering commitment. He maintained that the chapter has remained committed to nurturing young individuals in attaining their full potentials in creative writing and driving positive societal change.

    The diverse array of reactions from attendees at the event showcased a spectrum of perspectives and aspirations. Francis Duru, renowned for his influential role in Nigerian entertainment, emphasized the transformative potential of empowering young creatives, envisioning Nigeria as a global leader in the sector. His gratitude towards the guest author underscored the importance of mentorship and support for the youth. Denja Abdullahi, former president of the Association of Nigerian Authors, voiced concerns over corruption and declining educational standards, advocating for a comprehensive overhaul of the education sector to ensure quality learning for children. Ambassador OMOTAYO Albert emphasized the responsibility of young writers in driving positive change, urging them to harness their creativity for societal advancement. Among the attendees, Chime Aliliele, a banker, expressed optimism for the future under the leadership of figures like Hon. Alagbaoso, highlighting the significance of visionary leadership in securing a prosperous future for the younger generation. Collectively, these reactions reflected a commitment to nurturing talent, combating societal challenges, and fostering a brighter tomorrow for Nigeria.

    The gathering showcased a dynamic blend of activities, including engaging panel discussions that delved into pressing issues confronting Nigerian literature and society, sparking thought-provoking conversations and insightful exchanges, captivating poetry that stirred emotions and ignited imaginations, weaving together words that resonated deeply with the audience and presentation of literary prizes. With an audience representing diverse fields of work, from academia to activism, the gathering pulsated with intellectual energy and creativity.

    The monthly Reading/Writers Dialogue of the Abuja chapter of ANA has become a cherished platform for dialogue, reflection, and artistic exploration. It provides a space for literary figures to share their insights and experiences, fostering intellectual exchange and inspiring attendees. The upcoming May programme, scheduled for yesterday at the same venue, promised another enriching experience. Professor Vicky Sylvester, a professor of African Literature with the University of Abuja was the guest author.

  • Culture ministry, entertainment group seal deal on Abuja International Carnival

    Culture ministry, entertainment group seal deal on Abuja International Carnival

    The Ministry of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy and Yankee Entertainment on Thursday, May 16, finalised discussions on the planned Abuja International Carnival.

    The carnival according to a statement issued by the media aide to the minister, Nnna Ikem Anibeze has been scheduled for November 2024.

    The Abuja International Carnival is a significant event in the Nigerian cultural calendar, and the Culture Ministry and Yankee Entertainment are committed to making it a success.

    Anibeze quoted minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, to have listed the carnival as top of the ministry’s events for the year.

    She said: “The Abuja International Carnival aims to boost cultural tourism and enhance Nigeria’s international profile. The carnival will also foster national unity, boost international culture promotion, and create economic opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs.

    “It is one of the events we really need to showcase to put the country at the forefront of cultural promotion. We knew that we needed to create something sustainable that would be able to attract not only investments but tourism into our country.

    “The former administration had started the Abuja Carnival. Today, we want to continue with it and also make sure that it is given long-term attraction and sustainability, so, I am happy to see how we can work out the modalities of putting this together to finalize collaboration details and discuss plans for the carnival”.

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    Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Yankee Entertainment, Kehinde Adegbite, aka Mallam Yankee presented the vision and objectives of the carnival, highlighting its potential to showcase Nigerian culture and creativity to a global audience.

    Mallam Yankee told the Minister that his organization had done previous carnivals including the Ochacho Carnival, Ibeju Lekki Carnival, and Ojodu Carnival among others, and assured that the Abuja International Carnival would be the biggest ever.

    “Abuja Carnival will be an International Carnival because we intend to bring different people from all over the world including those who are culture and arts-driven. We want to make it bigger than the Calabar Carnival and we assure you that we will shake the world”.

    In her closing remarks, the director of entertainment and creative economy, Ugochi Akudo-Nwosu, thanked the Minister for her enthusiasm and willingness to develop the sector.

    “We appreciate your support and passion for the sector. The last Abuja Carnival was in 2016 and funding was an issue. We are good to roll now in 2024 because time is of the essence as we have been absent for a very long time.

    “We want to showcase big artists and this is the platform that will showcase the culture and creative content of our people as well as what the ministry is doing in the Art, Culture, and the creative economy.”

    The carnival will feature a range of activities, including street shows, musical concerts, boat regatta, Durbar, children’s Fiesta, and exhibitions.

  • Freedom Vibes: Celebrating Alamutu @ 60

    Freedom Vibes: Celebrating Alamutu @ 60

    The art community thronged the Freedom Park on Lagos Island to celebrate art advocate Sola Alamutu, who turned 60.

    The day was marked with a potpourri of artistic events, featuring a colloquium in the afternoon and a night of performances.  Both events were compered by former TVC ‘Your View’ Co-host and social advocate, Olajumoke Alawode-James.

    They were put together by Unchained Vibes Africa (UVA) as part of the eight edition of its freedom series, tagged: FREEDOM Vibes 8.0.

    With Alamutu (aka Green Queen), who is the organisation Research and Advocacy Manager, in focus, the one-day colloquium underscored the impact of women in the arts, advocacy and freedom of expression campaign and how they are engaging the civic space.

    With the theme, “Inspiring Women to Drive Social Change Through Arts”, it had an all-female panel members, who had been mentees of Alamutu and had borrowed her artistic and advocacy leaf and are impacting lives in their respective spaces..

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    According to UVA Executive Director, Mr. Ayo Ganiu, this edition of UVA artistic freedom series (FREEDOM Vibes 8.0) is designed is to inspire women in driving meaningful change in the society by highlighting the Green Queen, writer, freedom of artistic expression and environmental justice advocate, Sola Alamutu, who has become a role model to many women through multiple platforms and unwavering commitment to the arts. Hence it was held to coincide with her 60th birthday celebration on May 29.”

    For UVA’s Programme Manager, Samuel Osaze, “Freedom Vibes 8.0 serves as a platform to further the conversation on women’s empowerment in the realm of arts and advocacy while amplifying Alamutu’s legacy. Through a diverse fusion of exhibitions, spoken word, panel discussion, music, dance, drama and a myriad of artistic expressions, the event aims to inspire women while igniting dialogue and driving social change.”

    In attendance were CORA board members – Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and Kayode Aderinokun; Former ace broadcaster at NTA, Mrs. Bimbo Oloyede, Toki Mabogunje is the Vice Chair Africa at ICC World Chamber Federation; Honorary Live Vice President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shade Bembotoun-Young, Programme Chair for Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), Jahman Anikulapo; the President, Poets in Nigeria (PIN) and former Chairman, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Abuja Chapter  Eriata Oribhabor, and Brenda Nwafor of ANA Lagos, among others.

  • Ezinna Achugwo for burial May 17

    Ezinna Achugwo for burial May 17

    The family of Achugwo Shimeobi of Eke-Ezeala, Amulu, Ihitte Autonomus Community, Mbieri, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Imo State, has announced the death of their husband, grandfather and father-in-law,  Pa Ezinna Peter Achugwo Shimeobi (aka Dee Pee, Enyioha). He died at 95.

    The funeral rites will begin with a brief stop over at his maternal home, Umunkwo Obazu on Friday , May 17, by 7:30 am.

    Lying-in-state at his compound in Umuduruaku, Eke-Ezeala, Amaulu Mbieri by 8.15 am

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    By 10 am, a Requiem/Funeral mass will be held at St Theresa Catholic Church, Amaulu, Mbieri.

    Interment follows immediately after the Service at his compound in Umuduruaku by 12:00 noon.

    There will be Outing/Thanksgiving Service at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Amaulu, Mbieri by 9 am on Sunday, May 19.

    He is survived by children, grand children, great grand children and inlaws.

    Among his children is Mr. Augustine C. Achugwo.