The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • Metamorphosis: Homecoming exhibition to celebrate Prince Adeyemi at 80

    Metamorphosis: Homecoming exhibition to celebrate Prince Adeyemi at 80

    Art lovers are set to witness a rare celebration of creativity, mastery and storytelling as Prince Yinka Adeyemi, one of Nigeria’s foremost artists and a foundational member of the Osogbo Art Group, marks his 80th birthday with a landmark exhibition titled Metamorphosis.

    Organised by Mind of the Masters and curated by Moses Ohiomokhare, the commemorative show will run from September 13 to 28, at The Art Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Curator Ohiomokhare described Adeyemi as one of the older masters whose works remain strikingly modern and relevant even after decades of practice. 

    “Prince Adeyemi is an exceptional artist, especially in beadwork,” he said. “His artistry is unmatched, and every piece he creates is a masterpiece. After more than three decades of work, he continues to produce contemporary pieces that resonate globally.” Adeyemi’s artistic journey began in the Osogbo Art School movement of the 1960s, a pivotal era in Nigerian contemporary art under the teaching of Susanne Wenger. The movement encouraged self-expression, storytelling, and the preservation of Yoruba cultural identity through visual art. Adeyemi mastered multiple forms from painting, printmaking, and batik to his signature beadwork, which often carries a sculptural quality.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    For over 20 years, Adeyemi lived in the United States, primarily in California, where he exhibited widely and conducted workshops in cities like Oakland, Washington D.C., and Atlanta. His international exposure broadened his audience while keeping his African artistic identity at the core of his work. “My work depends on stories from what I see, hear, and experience,” Adeyemi explained. “I want the world to know that Africa is great and has something unique to present to the whole world.”

    His teaching career in the U.S. particularly as a recreation specialist in Oakland, gave him a platform to introduce African art to diverse communities. Adeyemi also participated in Living Blacks, a movement celebrating the creative expressions of Black artists in America. His works from that period remain in collections across the United States and Europe.

    Metamorphosis will feature works across multiple media, allowing visitors to experience Adeyemi’s evolution over decades. Paintings, prints, textiles, and beadwork will reflect the fusion of traditional African designs with modern techniques. Ohiomokhare calls it “a landmark exhibition” because it captures the artist’s range and versatility, while also marking a symbolic homecoming after his years abroad.

    Initiator of Mind of Masters, Mr. Larry Segun-Lean said the exhibition is not only a celebration of years, but a reflection of a life devoted to the elevation of art, culture, and the enduring legacy of Yoruba visual traditions.

    He recalled that he first encountered Adeyemi’s work some three decades ago, at a time when he was just beginning to build his art collection. “His batiks and graphic compositions struck me immediately—they were rich with meaning, layered with cultural memory, and pulsing with a sense of timeless beauty.

    “I was drawn to the complexity of his lines, the vibrancy of his palette, and the silent wisdom embedded in his figures. His work, for me, was not just decorative—it was deeply spiritual, intellectually arresting, and profoundly African,” he said. 

    He noted that Metamorphosis presents not just a retrospective, but a journey—a visual chronicle of an artist who has continually evolved, absorbing influences from every season of his life while remaining grounded in the essence of his cultural identity. “Metamorphosis will no doubt offer viewers a rare opportunity to witness the breadth and depth of his artistic career: from early ink and batik experiments to his later, more refined compositions marked by maturity, rhythm, and grace,” he added.

    The Lagos exhibition is not Adeyemi’s only celebratory show this year. An exhibition of his works opened on August 30th 2025, at the Tunde Odunlade Arts and Culture Connexions in Ibadan, Oyo State. That show, which ran for two weeks, offered art collectors in the Southwest an early glimpse into his recent creations ahead of the Lagos unveiling.

    Adeyemi’s Metamorphosis promises more than a display of art as it is a narrative of resilience, cultural pride, and creative transformation. As Nigeria continues to celebrate its artistic heritage on the global stage, this exhibition stands as a reminder of the enduring relevance of artists who bridge the past and present.

  • Tributes, music and memories for Lasode at PMAN concert

    Tributes, music and memories for Lasode at PMAN concert

    The Kaphub Event Center, Ikeja witnessed an unusual gathering of musicians last Tuesday as the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) hosted a tribute concert in honour of its late former president, Femi Lasode.

    The evening wove together music, memory, and legacy, with friends, colleagues, and admirers gathered to celebrate the life and immense contributions of the veteran producer, filmmaker, and cultural icon.

    For many, the concert was not only a farewell but also an affirmation of Lasode’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s creative industry.

    A member of PMAN, Adene Adage, popularly known as PSA, recalled how Lasode gave him a platform that changed the course of his career.

    “He was a great man, a philanthropist who supported a lot of people. He named me PSA, Prince Sunny Ade, and produced my first video back in 2000. That gave me recognition, and I will always be grateful,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    Another protégé, Felix, also known as FFD (Full Force Demand), lauded Lasode with shaping his journey as a producer and sound engineer.

    “If I am a qualified sound engineer today, it was because of the impact of Femi Lasode. He taught me that everything must be done perfectly. Even my AIT jingle, ‘Mama, Papa, AIT,’ was influenced by his insistence on excellence,” he said.

    FFD captured Lasode’s character in three words: “a man of integrity, a man who loved people and someone who never tolerated nonsense.”

    Another member and artist Zubby Enebeli described Lasode as “the late father of PMAN” and recalled his encounters at Ibn Ezra Studios.

    “Generally, Femi Lasode touched lives. In his time, he touched many artists. I did a few of my productions in his studio, and I know how he came to my aid then,” he said. He described Lasode as, “Fair, intelligent and a father to all.”

    Speakers at the gathering highlighted his generosity, recalling how he opened doors for upcoming talents and nurtured many of Nigeria’s renowned musicians.

    “Femi Lasode empowered young people through training and education. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” one participant noted. While some reflected on the modest turnout, others encouraged those present to see themselves as the “chosen few” entrusted with carrying forward Lasode’s vision.

    “Many are called, but few are chosen. Those who are here today should be considered the chosen few. We must continue to honour his memory and work towards the best,” another remarked.

    The memorial ended with prayers and renewed commitment to uphold Lasode’s legacy. His contributions to music, film, and cultural promotion, many agreed, remain etched in Nigeria’s creative history.

    Together, the tributes underscored PMAN’s role in safeguarding the memory of its leaders while inspiring a new generation to continue the work they began.

  • Sound, memory and legacy converge at CCA Lagos

    Sound, memory and legacy converge at CCA Lagos

    Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA), Lagos held a double at the weekend with the opening of two exhibitions — Wind Chimes, Gongs and Bells, For Whom is This Called? and A Collective Remembering — each weaving sound, memory, and legacy into the fabric of contemporary art.

    Curated by Bukola Oyebode-Westerhuis, Wind Chimes, Gongs and Bells forms part of the global Listening Biennial 2025, which is unfolding simultaneously in 28 locations across the world.

    Lagos, one of the key sites, had earlier hosted the Listening Academy under the theme Go Slow, Engaging the Imperceptible before transitioning into this exhibition.

    Oyebode-Westerhuis explained that the show features six artists working across sound, interactive installations, video and performance.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    Among them are Colombia-born Ana Bravo Perez, Swiss artist Dunja Herzog, Sudanese artist Eythar Gubara, and Nigeria’s Ayo Akinmande. Their works engage themes of protest, conflict, resource extraction, and the global unrest that predates the pandemic.

    “I haven’t curated this to influence anyone. I am personally responding to the affairs of the world right now, and bringing artists who are also thinking like this into dialogue with my own observations,” she said.

    She added that Lagos must widen its curatorial horizon: “The art scene is still very much focused on conventional practices. I am interested in performance, sound, video, and interactive worlds. Perhaps this is an invitation for young curators not to shy away from exploring these forms.”

    Running alongside is A Collective Remembering, a collaboration between CCA Lagos and Goethe-Institut Nigeria, centred on the archive of the late Bisi Silva — the pioneering curator whose vision shaped Nigerian and African contemporary art.

    Curator, artist and filmmaker Amanda Madumere, who co-curated the project described her involvement as an honour. She noted that the archive is “a treasure of the world,” offering resources that continue to shape her practice as an artist and filmmaker.

    “The act of collectively remembering is about going back to the things that mattered and seeing how they still matter now.”

     We are enlivening the archive, making it relevant to the communities it was created in, not just a storehouse where things are locked away,” she said.

    For Madumere, the project also offers artists a sense of solidarity across time.

    “I hope visitors realise they are not alone. There is a long legacy of artists, curators, and creatives who carried these same questions and curiosities. And to know that this vast resource has been preserved at home, through the lens of someone as iconic as Bisi Silva, is powerful.”

    Together, the two exhibitions underscore CCA Lagos’s role as a hub for contemporary art and curatorial imagination, situating Lagos within a global dialogue while honouring a homegrown legacy.

  • ‘Wellness, fitness of clients our top priority’

    ‘Wellness, fitness of clients our top priority’

    Of the 23 floors, the fifth floor at the highbrow hospitality outfit, Lagos Continental Hotel, on Kofo Abayomi Street, Lagos is an uncommon one. Beyond being the tallest hotel in West Africa and offering panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel’s fifth floor houses an outdoor swimming pool and the Oriki fitness centre and spa – a one-stop floor for wellness and fitness for guests as well as members of the public.

    Human traffic to the centre, according to the Director of Rooms, Lagos Continental Hotel, Curtberga Onuoha, is overwhelming, noting that guests’ experience is not complete without fitness and wellness, most of which are complementary.

    She stated that apart from in-house guests, the wellness centre and spa is a major attraction to other guests to the hotel. “For the non-resident guests, it has been overwhelming because currently, the range is between 200 to 250 non-resident guests that use the gym on a monthly basis,” she added.

    Driven by the ideals of work-life balance, the hotel incorporates health and wellness packages in its itinerary of guests’ experience. Combining African-inspired treatments with global wellness techniques, the spa offers therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    But Onuoha said guests don’t have to stop their life style while at the hotel, but ‘we provide tailor-made fitness for them.’  She explained that from the check-in, the gym is introduced to guests, even non-guests are patronising the gym as it has become the number one fitness centre in the city.

    She disclosed that the hotel gym is equipped with the latest machines and professional trainers including state-of-the-art facilities like stepper boards, climbing boards, treadmills, elliptical bikes, rowing machines, weight sections, and boxing class, among others.

    “Our gym caters to every routine—from high-intensity cardio to strength training and yoga. All the equipment at the gym like treadmills, bikes and weight benches among others are from technogym. So, we have professionals who are out to meet the needs of guests for workouts, live classes and mindfulness sessions,” she added.

    Guests can indulge in massages, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy at the serene environment.

    Onuoha stressed that wellness and fitness packages complement room patronage, enhance guest satisfaction and encourage longer stays. “Wellness is very important to our guests. It offers a new experience for guests.  Everybody now feels that it is very important to take care of themselves and fitness and wellness have become very essential to every traveller,” she noted.

    “Our gym is well-equipped with techno fitness equipment. They are the best providers of equipment when it comes to fitness and wellness. We also have professionals that are very knowledgeable and experienced to guide and train our guests. We also try to create tailor-made fitness goals for our guests to meet the individual needs,” Onuoha said.

    According to her, the hotel has the best coaches and instructors in town, amid personal touch to their work and informed guidance to help the guests to achieve their fitness or wellness goals.

    Corroborating Onuoha’s positions, the hotel’s gym and fitness instructor Mr.  Joseph Akpereta, a certified professional in the fitness world, said his duties included making sure that the guests are comfortable. “I give guests basic training physical and health wise and I also try to provide tips on food intake for them, like what they should eat at different timing to enhance good health status and nutrition,’’ he said.

    On the services at the gym, he said, ‘we have one of the best state-of–the–art facilities in Africa, and of world class standard.’ But to Akpereta, the serene setting of the gym is among the elements that make it a unique closet to explore wellness offerings. “There are so many things that make this gym more special, we have standards and procedures and such procedures entail you being properly dressed, use of good clothes and we ensure that every guest maintains such standards,” he added.

  • Adebowale explores care, lineage and resistance in Amsterdam’s show

    Adebowale explores care, lineage and resistance in Amsterdam’s show

    Amsterdam-based Nigerian artist Tyna Adebowale opened her second solo exhibition, They Call You Mother; They Call Me Mama? last Saturday at Ellen de Bruijne Projects, Amsterdam. The show, which runs until October 18, is self-curated in collaboration with the gallery.

    Running concurrently, Adebowale is also part of a group exhibition at Centraal Museum Utrecht, curated by Laurie Cluitmans and Heske ten Cate, which remains on view until September 14.

    For Adebowale, the exhibition extends her long-term research into ‘Motherwomb,’ a project inspired by traditional forms of motherhood outside biological structures. Drawing from the lived experiences of women in her native Akoko-Edo council area of Edo State, she reflects on care, resilience, and the right of women to rest.

    “The works in this exhibition are deeply inspired by the lived experiences of women,” she explained. “Particularly women from my region. In 2019, after two years of living in Europe, I returned home. That journey brought to life what I had been researching mentally and marked the beginning of ‘Motherwomb.’ It was inspired by my great-aunt, Mama Nii Dezedo, who, despite not having children of her own, was a mother to all,” she recalled.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    Adebowale’s installations bring together paintings, videos, performances, and collaborative forms, layered to capture multiple narratives of care and survival. She frames motherhood as both resistance and legacy, challenging patriarchal demands for endless labour while affirming women’s right to rest and joy.

    “They call you Mother; They call me Mama is honouring women’s commitment to nurturing beyond bloodlines. It calls for recognition of their right to rest. This call for rest and ample enjoyment is a form of justice long denied under patriarchal systems,” she noted.

    Though this is her second solo presentation, Adebowale resists measuring her work in conventional terms. “I do not quantify my works in numbers. My exhibitions are layered, presented in several parts, and unfold as dialogue rather than a scripted show,” she said.

    Her first solo exhibition, She Called Me Woman, was held at the same gallery during the COVID-19 lockdown. Inspired by a Nigerian queer activist’s book, it wove together themes of identity, resilience, and memory. “For me, success is tricky to measure. The fulfillment came from knowing that the works reached the right audience, even amidst the lockdowns,” she reflected.

    This year has marked a particularly productive phase for the artist, with Motherwomb publicly evolving through multiple projects. From Vrouwen van Amsterdam – Een Ode (Women of Amsterdam: An Ode) at Museum Amsterdam, to Good Mom/Bad Mom at Centraal Museum Utrecht earlier in March, Adebowale has traced threads of lineage and memory across contexts.

    “Each of these exhibitions allowed me to engage care structures in different forms—through sound, ceramics, or community voices. Together, they make this year deeply meaningful for my practice,” she said.

    Looking ahead, Adebowale expressed her desire to bring her work home. “Of course, I am still Nigerian. Plans are to show in Nigeria soon,” she affirmed.

    Through this latest solo exhibition, Adebowale situates care not just as an act of survival but as a radical legacy of women whose labour has held families and communities together. In doing so, she expands the conversation on motherhood into one of justice, rest, and recognition.

  • When U.S. city celebrated UNIBEN’s top alumnus

    When U.S. city celebrated UNIBEN’s top alumnus

    Africa’s monarchs, intelligentsia, daughters and sons recently gathered with funfairs to celebrate one of their own when the Mayor of the City of Appleton, Jacob Woodford, honoured His Imperial Majesty Prof. Fonkem Achankeng I, of Atoabechied, Cameroon for his scholarly distinction, cultural stewardship and dedication to elevating the city on both local and international stage. Assistant Editor, BOLA OLAJUWON reports.

    The air of royalty is noticeable around the alumnus of University of Benin, Benin City, 1980-1984, who graduated with a BA (First Class Honours). Beneath this is the legacy of scholarship and humanitarian service of his Majesty, Prof. Fonkem Achankeng I, the traditional ruler of Atoabechied in his Southern Cameroons country, his second home nation Nigeria, across Africa and his base at the City of Appleton, United States (U.S.).

    As part of continuous impact in the Nigerian scholarship community, few years ago, he presented one of his books with a lecture at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA). The event drew many of his former classmates and friends in the academia.

    All these came out to showcase the traditional ruler and Nyatema of Atoabechied, a distinguished academic, and a respected custodian of the Nweh culture of Cameroon, when the Mayor of the City of Appleton, Jacoh Woodford, proclaimed him for his scholarly distinction, cultural stewardship, and dedication to elevating the city to the global stage.

    The event also turned out to be an African cultural jamboree, which brought together kings, princes, princesses and leaders from Cameroon, Nigeria, South Africa and others, drawing participation from residents of Appleton and beyond on Friday, August 29, this year. His Royal Majesty of Ogoniland, The Ikpo Mene Senewo of Ogoniland, was part of those who attended the event.

    At the proclamation, former Mayor of Appleton, who served the city for 24 years,  Timothy Hanna, in a citation on the distinguished John McNaughton Rosebush University Professor and a Hubert H. Humphrey International Fellow, said the scholarly work of the man who is recognised for his global leadership in conflict science and peace studies spans post-colonial nationalism, interstate conflicts, non-violence, human rights, refugees and international mediation with notable publications, including Nationalism and Interstate Conflicts in the Post-Colonial World from 2015, British Southern Cameroons, Nationalism and Conflict in Post-Colonial Africa from 2014, and a forthcoming book, Second Chances, Crime and Human Services.

    Hanna said: “As the traditional ruler of Atoabechied, Prof. Achankeng I bridges cultural heritage with academic leadership embodying the global perspective and rich diversity cherished by the Appleton community and whereas his services extend beyond research through leadership roles with the Wisconsin Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, the Global Education and Research Team of Dignity and Humiliation Studies, and the Transnational Education and Learning Society and whereas HIM, Prof. Fonkem Achankeng I ‘s lifelong commitment to education, cultural understanding, and conflict resolution inspires students, scholars, and citizens, strengthening the values of empathy, academic excellence, and global citizenship in Appleton.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

     “Now, therefore, Mayor Jacob Woodford, Mayor of the City of Appleton recognises HIM, Prof. Fonkem Achankeng I as a celebrated Appletonian honouring his scholarly distinction, cultural stewardship, and dedication to elevating Appleton on both local and international stages, presented this 29th day of August 2025, signed by Mayor Jacob A. Woodford.”

    Other notable dignitaries in attendance were Prof. Michael Mejai Avoseh of the University of South Dakota and Prof. Ryan Donland of Indiana State, Terre Haute, Indiana, HRH FORMIN of Quibeku; HRH Foutazeh of Fosimouck; HRH Fuojiawung of Ajiawung; an Otunba of Ijebu Ode, Anthony Awofeso, Prof. Bola Delano Oriaran, Dean of Education at St Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin; and Ron Wolfe, former Superintendent (mayor) of Grand Chutte, Wisconsin; Professor Carlson Anyangwe, retired Rector of Walter Sisulu University in South Africa, among several other dignitaries.

     Others are Maa Assaba Fuankem of Atoabechied Kingdom; Prof. Ekokobe Fonkem, former Chair of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin and Dr Edwin Kimbo of San Jose California.

    Prof. Fonkem’s PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Nova Southeastern University is scaffolded by his master’s in the same field from Antioch University, Yellow Springs, Ohio.

    He also earned master’s degrees in French from a university in Cameroon.  He served as adjunct faculty at UW Oshkosh in both the Department of Human Services & Educational Leadership and in the Department of Foreign Languages, at UW-Parkside, Marian College, Antioch University, Fox Valley Technical College and UW-Fox Valley.

    In addition to having served as a Fulbright scholar in 1995/96 at the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute for Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, he has over 18 years of experience as Executive Director of the Association for Nonviolence, diplomatic experience in the Foreign Ministry of Cameroon, and has been actively engaged in scholarly teaching, publishing, and public presentations on social issues at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, in U.S. and abroad.  Prof. Fonkem received the Chic Nichol Essay Award for Best Article in the April 2009 edition of The Mediation Journal.

    Speaking to The Nation on the recognition, the monarch said: “The proclamation by the City of Appleton in Wisconsin is all about who I am, my achievements and contributions to the City of Appleton, where I’ve lived, where I have a good community of family and friends. I’ve been a good contributing member and the city knows my contributions and my achievements.”

    On why he was so recognised, the humble scholar submitted: “I do not know. The city probably knows why they did. Well, I’m not only a father of one of the most educated families in North America. Appleton is a city, it’s our base. We’ve made much impact out here. We have about five members of the family, who hold doctorate degrees, which is very exceptional for immigrants.

     “And also, we have two children in the military – one in the army and one in the Air Force. We have a very eminent medical doctor; a Harvard-trained medical doctor who was until recently Chair of the Department of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin. We also have a member of our family, who is a partner at a top tier business law firm.

     “As a monarch of African descent, most people don’t know about me, but those who do, know that I have other responsibilities and they are very respectful of those responsibilities.”

    On why many monarchs attended the event, he said: “Culture being what it is, I am friends with many monarchs out there. As a matter of fact, His Royal Majesty of Ogoni in Nigeria, The Ikpo Mene Senewo of Ogoniland, was part of those who attended the event. Monarchs from Pretoria in South Africa, all the way to the Gambia, through Ghana and Nigeria also graced the event.

    Asked to comment on the political issues in Cameroon, he said: “It’s very regrettable. What is happening to Cameroon is a great regret. I hope that the society will find its feet again soon. The way out of what is happening in Cameroon is politics. So, if there’s the political will to change, there will be change.

     “But as long as there’s no political will to change, it can be difficult to predict any way out.”

    However, Prof. Achankeng said: “I feel very humbled and delighted for the honour from the City of Appleton under Mayor Jacob Woodford. While I remain thankful for my children who created the opportunity to celebrate me, l am most thankful to God Almighty for directing my family and me to Appleton, Wisconsin, one of the very best American cities in which to raise a family. Appleton, Wisconsin is truly one of the reasons for the celebration of the many successes, blessings and achievements my family has had. The Queen, Dr. Patience Eweli Fonkem, the children, and I are most thankful to God for this recognition.”

    The event, which witnessed the NkRi-kung ritual announcing important event, was spiced with performances, songs and continental foods from Cameroon and other African countries. It also witnessed the traditional African party-after party.

  • Ogun SNA holds August Visitors, to redefine Egba arts

    Ogun SNA holds August Visitors, to redefine Egba arts

    By Olorunshola Osasona

    Businessman and art enthusiast Chief Lai Labode, Patron of the Ogun State Chapter of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), has expressed his readiness to collaborate with the association to usher in a new era of Egba modern arts. He disclosed this during the 2025 edition of the stakeholder engagement event in the arts community in Ogun State, tagged August Visitors, held at the Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, penultimate Saturday.

    Relishing Egba’s rich history, renowned for its pioneering accomplishments and groundbreaking records across various fields, Chief Labode lauded the contributions of Egba ancestors and their remarkable achievements. Challenging the art community, he emphasized that Egba’s past efforts in arts and other disciplines placed the nation on the world map through numerous ‘firsts’ in diferent fields of endeavour. However, he cautioned, “we cannot rest on the laurels of the past. We must break new grounds, set new records, conquer new territories, and champion innovative causes for future generations.”

    Labode elaborated on factors that have hindered the artist community from maximizing its potential. Among these, he noted that many artists lacked the vision to think big and bold. He urged creators to adopt a transgenerational outlook, emphasizing that his team was working on building the world’s tallest human monument in honor of Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the progenitor of the Egba nation. Many viewed this as an audacious and impossible idea, especially considering the costs involved. “That’s where the problem is,” he said. For Chief Labode, no amount is too much for an idea whose time has come, especially when driven by a resolute people. He extended an invitation to the Society of Nigerian Artists to join him on this bold journey to redefine Egba arts through innovative initiatives.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    He also condemned the individualistic approach prevalent among many artists, describing it as a barrier to industry growth. He called on stakeholders to unite and pursue ambitious projects, urging artists to always aim for excellence through quality work, refinement, and impeccable finishing—attainable through continuous training, retraining, and exposure.

    A key highlight of the event was the interactive session with Pa. Akinlawon Alaba Soremekun, a seasoned sculptor and septuagenarian, who offered counsel to young and aspiring artists. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he advised young creatives to prioritize creating value over pursuing quick financial gains. “When you create value over time, money will follow,” he said. Pa. Soremekun also encouraged artists to invest wisely, care for their health, and adopt routines that promote rest despite work pressures. He further cautioned against drugs and smoking, advocating for discipline and health-consciousness.

    Dr. Adeola Balogun, chair of the event planning committee, expressed satisfaction with the event’s concept and outcomes. He highlighted the event’s purpose as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and foster meaningful conversations to advance the arts industry. He reiterated the association’s readiness to partner with Chief Labode in pioneering a new phase for Egba modern arts.

    Otunba Nkang Ini Dan, vice president of the Southwest Zone of SNA, also lamented the individualistic tendencies among Nigerian artists, advocating for increased collaboration and unity. He pledged to champion awareness campaigns aimed at fostering cooperation and emphasized that collaborating with traditional institutions could catalyze development in the arts sector.

    Moses Ogunyinka, one of the event’s exhibitors, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate actively in the August Visitors edition. He called for more such platforms and encouraged young artists to join the Society of Nigerian Artists and engage in its activities.

    In his  remarks, Mr. Olufemi Ogunseye, chairman of SNA, thanked all stakeholders for their contributions to the event’s success. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working with relevant partners to set new records, elevate Nigerian arts’ impact, and enhance its visibility nationally and internationally.

  • Yinka Ash named among Vogue Business 100 innovators for 2025

    Yinka Ash named among Vogue Business 100 innovators for 2025

    Vogue Business has unveiled its annual 100 Innovators list for 2025, spotlighting the entrepreneurs, leaders, and disruptors shaping the future of fashion, beauty, and luxury. Among this year’s honourees is Nigerian entrepreneur Yinka Ash, Founder & CEO of Ashcorp Group, recognized in the Entrepreneurs & Founders category.

    The 100 Innovators list celebrates individuals who are redefining industries through innovation, influence, and cultural impact. From fashion and sustainability pioneers to beauty disruptors and tech masterminds, the list highlights the dynamic voices reshaping the global creative and commercial industry.

    Yinka Ash joins fellow honourees including Nina Briance, Founder & CEO of Cult Mia; Jess Hunt and Jenna Meek, Co-founders of Refy; Johan Bello, Founder & CEO of UNCUT; Caio Amato, Global President of Oakley; and others. The Entrepreneurs & Founders category, in particular, recognizes those who are building bold businesses, driving transformation, and setting new standards for creativity and leadership.

    Through his brands Ashluxe and Ashluxury, Yinka has established himself as a leading force in global fashion and luxury. Ashluxe has garnered international recognition, worn by artists such as Nigerian musician Davido and Colombian singer Maluma, and expanded into the UK earlier this year. Ashluxury has become a Lagos landmark, growing into a 120-square-metre flagship store curating over 100 African and international brands.

    “This recognition is a reflection of the incredible community of creatives, partners, and supporters who believe in our vision,” said Yinka Ash. “Our goal is not only to redefine what African luxury and streetwear can be but also to expand its influence globally, creating opportunities, attracting talent, and forming partnerships that shape the future of fashion.”

    With Ashcorp Group’s growing influence across fashion and luxury, this recognition cements Yinka Ash’s position as a key player in shaping what comes next for the global industry.

    Ashcorp is a global luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle group redefining how we experience the world through innovation, and impact. Ashcorp is home to iconic brands like Ashluxe, Ashluxury, Plus234Labs, and more.

    Through Ashluxury, the group uphold’s the integrity of luxury retail, offering over 100 international and local designer brands while Ashluxe continues to push boundaries in streetwear fashion. With offices in Lagos and London, Ashcorp connects fashion lovers in 50+ countries and territories with the world’s best brands.

  • Gender Tropes in Damilola Olaniyi’s We Have Come Home

    Gender Tropes in Damilola Olaniyi’s We Have Come Home

    • By Paul Liam

    Damilola Olaniyi’s collection of short stories We Have Come Home, x-rays the dilemmatic life of young Nigerians struggling with reconciling their freshly minted dualities acquired by living or schooling abroad with their African socio-cultural values that expect them to act in certain ways or aspire to certain moral ideals.  They are often fronted with traditional value systems after returning from foreign lands which often creates a conflict of interest that puts them against their families or the larger society in one way or another. Part of the struggle of these young Africans and in the context of this review, Nigerians is finding love and fulfillment. At least this is the impression that one deduces from the title story of the collection, We Have Come Home.

    Lynda is a young lady in her mid-thirties that has just returned from abroad and is caught up in a sexual relationship with a younger man whom she is four years older than and way out of his league, but driven by sexual cravings she has sex with him in his humble home which she describes as demeaning of her social class as a foreign educated lady who is also pursuing her masters as a lecturer abroad. What is striking about her relationship with Ikenna is not so much the sexual intercourse she has with him but the social realities surrounding her life as an unmarried Nigerian lady. Her mother is desperate for her to get married like her other siblings and relations and this puts pressure on her both psychologically and emotionally thereby leaving her in a state of dilemma. However, as it is typical of many Nigerian families, religious bigotry or inter -religious dichotomy is highlighted as a social problem militating against the prospects of a happy life for many young people.

    Perhaps the question Olaniyi raises with this portrayal is to raise awareness of the disservice of inter-religious conflict and how it is inimical to the actualisation of the happiness of young people in a supposedly religious society like Nigeria. One would think that inter-religious differences should not matter in choosing a life partner but the happiness of the couple, unfortunately, that is not the case in Lynda’s situation. But the inter-religious division is not the only challenge that Lynda or other young Africans face when it comes to marriage or picking a life partner.

    Another story that illustrates the challenges of young women living in an overtly judgmental society is the story entitled, A Sneak Peak, which chronicles the lives of four young women who have equally travelled abroad before. The narrator encounters three of them in a mall and eavesdrops on their conversation which she recounts in quite comprehensible details. While they look posh and successful, they are actually living with their own demons like everyone else. Although, the ladies are central to the story, it is the social issues that they navigate that the story highlights for deeper reflection by the society. For example, Tolani had lived with her aunt in London where she obtained a degree in journalism, while staying at her aunt’s house, her aunt’s husband wanted to sleep with her and not wanting to succumb or destroy her aunt’s marriage so she cleverly returns to Nigeria without putting a strain on their marriage. But what is significant in Tolani’s story is that circumstances beyond her control forced to relinquish a good life and return home which consequently implied that in order to save her aunt’s marriage she gave up on the prospects of attaining a more fulfilling life in London.

    This is the reality of many young girls in Nigeria who have had to sacrifice their dreams because of the predatory lust of the men in their lives who protect them such unhealthy situations. This predatory lifestyle by men has damaged many homes and lives of innocent young girls who perhaps did not have the kind of empowerment that Tolani had and the will to resist and protect her dignity by returning to Nigeria.

    Tife’s story like Tolani’s shows the various degree of challenges that young girls are made to face by society usually in certain where they are supposedly protected from harm. These ungodly circumstances often leave them vulnerable and susceptible to all manner of dehumanisation that sometimes even threatens their existence. Tife’s story is akin to that of Ochanya, a Benue girl in Nigeria that was serially raped by a father and his son.  Like Tife, instead of protection she was dehumanised and killed by those who should have saved her. Olaniyi does a beautiful job by painting the plight of the girl-child in such a subtle way that it does not even appear like an advocacy for better treatment of the female child.

    Funke’s story equally shows vulnerability especially as they struggle to navigate the dark waters of life in a bid to secure economic independence for themselves. Funke’s a tragic case of self-loathing as a result of bad decisions, she finds herself pregnant with a married whom she was convinced was not going to marry her and without a choice, she aborted the pregnancy and now lives with the guilt for the rest of her life. Had she a choice she would be happily married and given birth to the child. The moral of the story is that women who find themselves in patriarchal societies are conditioned to pander to the whims and caprices of the men sometimes for economic liberation or validation. Even though Funke is a working-class lady, somehow society has conditioned her to believe that she needs a man to be complete, and not having her own man or husband, she makes do with what comes her way in form of a married man who will not marry her.

    The portrayal of women as victims of social and cultural injustices in the text is telling of the gender issues still being faced by women and young girls regardless of their education or social class, they are confronted with new subversive realities that undermine their happiness and quest for a fulfilled existence. For example, the female characters in the collection are sophisticated, educated, and modern women but that does not make them immune to the realities of the world they live in. Olaniyi creatively deconstructs gender problematics using subtle but telling language and metaphors that prick the mind of the reader. A conscious reader would have no choice but to ask the salient questions inscribed in the stories, which Olaniyi actually wants her readers to ask themselves. In each of the stories, we encounter different layers of the challenges women struggle with in their daily lives in a world preconditioned by patriarchal indoctrinations that foreshadow the attainment of the feminine essence.

    The eighteen short stories in this collection are written in fine and accessible language even though a critical reader would demand sturdier suspense and plot dynamics.

    Paul Liam is a poet, critic, and author of two poetry collections: Indefinite Cravings (2012) and Saint Sha’ade and Other Poems (2014). Liam is the former National Coordinator of the World Poetry Movement (WPM) in Nigeria.

  • Vera Osuji: Redefining growth, leadership in management consulting

    Vera Osuji: Redefining growth, leadership in management consulting

    • By Ralph Alabi

    In the world of management consulting, where strategy must meet execution and results speak louder than rhetoric, some professionals stand out as trailblazers whose careers reshape industry standards. One such individual is Vera Osuji, recently conferred with the prestigious Fellowship of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC), a recognition that places her in the ranks of seasoned professionals whose influence extends far beyond their immediate circles. The fellowship, awarded on July 25, 2025, was in acknowledgement of Osuji’s outstanding career achievements, dedication to professional excellence, and her proven track record in creating and sustaining value across industries.

    For Ralph Talabi, a respected voice in Nigeria’s corporate sector and former board director at a leading credit bureau where he worked closely with Osuji, the conferment is not just deserved but symbolic of a professional whose contributions have redefined the contours of leadership and business growth. “I proudly congratulate Ms. Vera Osuji on her well-deserved announcement as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants,” Talabi said. “Her outstanding sales skills, resilience, positive attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond significantly contributed to the company’s continued profitability.”

    Osuji’s career spans over 15 years, covering financial services, Fintech, investment banking, and non-profit management. Her professional journey reflects a consistent ability to transform challenges into opportunities, often turning around struggling business units and driving exponential growth.

    At CR Services Credit Bureau, where she once led the sales organisation, Osuji was instrumental in delivering over tenfold revenue growth, a feat that remains a benchmark in the industry. Her ability to restructure teams, design winning strategies, and execute flawlessly earned her recognition not just from peers but also from international bodies like the World Bank, which commended her innovative contributions in credit bureau operations.

    According to Ralph Talabi, a globally respected corporate voice, Osuji’s fellowship was inevitable. “In our professional world together, she went above and beyond to change the trajectory of the prolonged unprofitable balance sheet, managed critical projects to fruition, and restructured and led the best sales team in the history of the organisation. She remains an exemplary leader who raised the bar so high, which is still used as a yardstick for success measurement,” he noted.

    Business leaders are often categorised as either strategists or executors. Rarely do both traits coexist in equal measure. Osuji, however, has carved her niche as a professional who marries strategic foresight with practical execution.

    “She is relentless, disciplined, and inspires her team to achieve the impossible,” Talabi said. This rare mix has been central to her enduring success across industries. Whether in fintech, where disruption is the order of the day, or in financial services, where stability and compliance are paramount, Osuji has demonstrated agility and effectiveness.

    Her current role as General Manager of Growth at Suretree Connect, where she has a huge responsibility of the company’s flagship product nairaCompare, exemplifies this blend. Under her leadership, the product has been positioned as a market leader in digital financial services, offering customers innovative ways to compare, access, and manage financial products.

    Beyond the boardroom and corporate performance metrics, Osuji is also committed to social impact. She co-founded the Whiteslate Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to training public school teachers in Africa. The initiative underscores her belief that sustainable growth extends beyond profits and balance sheets and must include investment in people and communities.

    Her professional recognitions are numerous. She has received the CEO Gold Star Certificate Award for Best Performing Manager multiple times, cementing her reputation as a high-performing leader. In addition, she has consulted for Payonus, a digital payment company, offering expertise in sales and capital-raising – a role that further validates her reputation as a trusted growth partner for organisations seeking expansion.

    Osuji’s academic grounding is equally impressive. She holds a B.Sc in Psychology from Imo state Unviersity, Master’s degree in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from the University of Lagos, along with certifications in product management, credit management, and digital marketing. She is also a member of Nigeria Commodity Exchange. This strong foundation in both theory and practice has equipped her to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business management with dexterity.

    Osuji’s leadership extends beyond Nigeria. Having led multicultural teams across markets, she is respected across borders for her ability to harmonise diverse perspectives, build consensus, and drive results. Her leadership style is inclusive, yet uncompromising on standards, making her an asset to every team she has worked with.

    Her results-driven approach has also attracted global attention, with many organisations across Africa and beyond tapping into her expertise. It is not surprising, therefore, that her recognition by the IMC has been met with resounding applause from colleagues, mentees, and industry watchers.

    At its core, management consulting is about diagnosing problems, designing strategies, and driving execution to achieve measurable outcomes. Osuji embodies these principles. What sets her apart, however, is her holistic approach: blending analytical thinking with interpersonal skills, and strategic foresight with practical execution.

    For Talabi, who has watched her career evolve over the years, Osuji represents a new model of leadership. “Vera’s wealth of business understanding, exceptional sense of ownership, creative and analytical thinking, and above all, her management and delivery of solutions to clients are what make her stand out. Her recognition as a Fellow is not just a personal achievement but also a signal of what leadership in management consulting should look like,” he remarked.

    With her fellowship recognition, the expectations on Osuji’s shoulders are even greater. Yet, if her career so far is any indication, she is more than capable of meeting them. Her trajectory suggests not just continued professional success but also broader influence on the consulting industry in Nigeria and beyond.

    In an era where businesses are grappling with digital disruption, economic uncertainty, and the demand for sustainable growth, leaders like Vera Osuji are indispensable. Her career has shown that growth is not merely about numbers but also about people, innovation, and resilience.

    The conferment of the Fellowship of the IMC on Vera Osuji is both a recognition of her past contributions and a mandate for future leadership. To many, she represents the intersection of competence, vision, and integrity, qualities desperately needed in today’s complex business environment.

    As Ralph Talabi aptly put it, “Vera Osuji is redefining growth and leadership in management consulting.” Her journey is a reminder that with passion, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, professionals can transform industries, inspire teams, and leave an indelible mark on society.