The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • Art meet AI: Solomon-Ayeni urges artists to embrace technology without fear

    Art meet AI: Solomon-Ayeni urges artists to embrace technology without fear

    The recently concluded Art Meet AI: Embracing the Future, Not Fighting It, hosted by Our Heritage UK, brought together artists, curators, and cultural practitioners for a groundbreaking conversation on the intersection of art and artificial intelligence. Among the highlights of the program was the inspiring session led by Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni, a celebrated Nigerian visual artist, curator, and cultural advocate.

    Solomon-Ayeni, who has built an international reputation for her multidisciplinary artistic practice and curatorial projects across Africa, Europe, and North America, shared practical insights on how artists can integrate AI into their creative processes. 

    She emphasized that rather than seeing AI as a threat, artists should view it as a collaborative tool that can expand creativity and unlock new dimensions of artistic expression.

    In her words, “AI has brought us speed. If the digital camera outran analog cameras in gaining time, effort, and producing more income, AI has now come to supersede that record.” Her statement resonated strongly with the audience, underscoring how AI is not just another tool, but a revolutionary step in the ongoing evolution of art and technology.

    She further explained how AI can help artists experiment with styles and techniques that might otherwise be inaccessible due to limitations of time, resources, or geography. 

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    She also highlighted several beginner-friendly platforms available to artists, encouraging participants to start small and build confidence in using AI to enhance, not replace their creativity.

    Her session was described as interactive, eye-opening, and empowering by attendees. Young and emerging artists in particular expressed excitement about the practical pathways she presented for merging traditional practices with digital innovation. A number of participants praised her clarity in addressing the challenges artists face when navigating technology, while also offering actionable solutions drawn from her own experience.

    As a speaker and panelist, Solomon-Ayeni also engaged in a wider discussion about the role of institutions in preparing the next generation of artists. She challenged schools, galleries, and cultural bodies to develop inclusive programs that bridge art and technology, ensuring that artists are equipped with the tools to thrive in a digital-first world.

    By the end of the session, there was no doubt that her contribution had set a hopeful and forward-thinking tone. As one participant put it, “Kikelomo made us see that AI is not here to take our voice away, but to help us amplify it.

    The Art Meet AI program marked an important step in reshaping the narrative around technology in the creative sector, and Solomon-Ayeni’s presence was central to its success. Her session not only offered knowledge but also sparked confidence and curiosity among artists to embrace AI as part of their evolving toolkit.

  • Ohams marks 60 with mastery and milestones exhibition

    Ohams marks 60 with mastery and milestones exhibition

    Frontline humourist and cartoon editor of Sun newspapers, Albert Ohams will showcase his paintings and cartoons in an exhibition tagged ‘Mastery and Milestones’ to mark his 60th birthday at Spotlight Creative Hub,11b Ayorinde ligali street, Victoria Island, Lagos on the 30th August to 6th Sept. 2025.

    The exhibition will parade about 30 works of the artist spanned over the years of about four decades in the profession.

    Ohams who is also the West African representative of Cartoonists rights network will entertain guests with rib-cracking and editorial cartoons that has fetched him numerous awards like the Nigerian Media Merit award (NMMA) cartoonist of the year, Diamond award for Media excellence (DAME) in editorial cartooning, Wole Soyinka Investigative journalism award in editorial cartooning, BBC budget monitoring best cartoonist award among  many others.

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    A member of Cartooning for Peace, an international body that oversees and promotes global peace through cartoons, Ohams had his first solo exhibition ‘ Cultural Glimpses ‘ at the Nigerian embassy, Tel-Aviv, Israel in 1995.

    He has done several solo and group cartoon and painting exhibitions both at home and and abroad, among them are ‘ Albert Ohams: 35 years strokes of a master cartoonist held at Four point Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos 2019, In a pot of hot soup’ group exhibition of contemporary Nigerian artists at the SOAS, University of London, in 2022.

    Albert Ohams, a Jerusalem pilgrim started his cartooning career with Weekly eagle newspaper, Aba then Imo state and has worked in the Nation newspaper, Aba, Vanguard newspapers, Prime People magazine, Ikebe Super, Champion newspapers and the Sun newspapers where he is currently as cartoon editor for two decades.

    His works to be exhibited includes ‘No food for lazy man’ The struggling market women, This is Lagos’ Juice of the labour among others.

    A member of Society of Nigerian Artists and Cartoonists Association of Nigeria, Ohams is married with children.

  • Olagoke set for Evolving Heritage Gala

    Olagoke set for Evolving Heritage Gala

    With his passion for the promotion of African descent women, in the last few years, artist, Lanre Olagoke MBE sharpens his focus with the 2025 edition of Black History Month. EDOZIE UDEZE reports.

    Olagoke will be staging Evolving Heritage Gala at the British Museum on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Black History Month in the UK and also Nigeria Independence Day, which comes a day ahead. The UK event continues Olagoke’s passion for history of the persons of African descents as he was deeply involved in flagging off an ongoing project known as Museum of Black Women in History, in Nigeria few years ago. The unfolding Museum of Black Women in History, to be located in Oyo town, Nigeria, is in honour of the legacy of Olagoke’s mother, and Iya Laje of the Oyo Empire, Late Chief Comfort Titilola Orija-Adesoye, whose vision was to see women celebrated worldwide.

    The Evolving Heritage Gala is a celebration of Black Women in the UK, Africa, and Its Diaspora, honouring the remarkable contributions of women, youth, and creatives. The event comes with a special focus on the unsung heroes—Black women—who have empowered, inspired, and sacrificed so much.

    Award categories recognizing these notable Black women in the UK will include Arts Excellence Award, for outstanding achievements in visual arts, performing arts, or literature; Sports Leadership Award, celebrating influential Black women in sports as athletes, coaches, or advocates; and Cultural Impact Award, Honoring contributions to the preservation and promotion of Black culture. Others include Media Trailblazer Award, in acknowledging strides made by Black women in journalism, broadcasting, publishing or digital media; Political Activism Award, in recognizing impactful contributions to politics and social justice advocacy; Community Empowerment Award, which celebrates those uplifting communities through grassroots initiatives, activism, community building and leadership; and Innovation in Education Award, in honoring contributions to education, mentorship, and empowering future generations.

    With his Art-Alive Arts Trust (AAAT), Olagoke is organising Evolving Heritage Gala, supporting Centre Point youth hostel and Her Rise Heritage, celebrating the intersection of art and social impact, while raising funds for UK youth in Commonwealth Africa. Apart from his studio practice, Olagoke’s art activism using the AAAT vessel for over 20 years, actually earned him his MBE award, in 2024. Olagoke has been a vital bridge between Nigeria, Africa, and the UK, in advocating for the youth and women. And as a peace advocate and a champion for women and youth, he has the unwavering support of his extraordinary wife, Simone, who is bravely battling ROS1 lung cancer, a rare form of the disease.

     Olagoke enthused that there could not have been a better venue to kick off the celebration than the British Museum, a place he described as “where history is constantly being redefined.” The Evolving Heritage Gala is expected to host celebrities, including renowned artiste, and youth Ambassador DJ Cuppy.

    He noted that the award categories for Evolving Heritage Gala highlight the diverse achievements of Black women across various fields in the UK and beyond. “Additionally, we will commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day, which aligns with the gala’s celebration of “Evolving Heritage,” he assured of the reach of the event. “As one of Britain’s former colonies, it is fitting to honor the remarkable women who have bridged the cultural and artistic gap between Nigeria and Britain at The British Museum.”

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    And as the Evolving Heritage event, coincidentally, comes on the second day of Nigerian Independence Day, in October the event aims to provide emerging artists with recognition in both the UK and Africa. “We will be sponsoring three of these artists with a two-month residency award, enabling them to create works centered around the theme ‘Who I Am,’ Olagoke gave his pledge. “These pieces will be exhibited in one of the premier galleries in the UK, with nominations for the three artists being made by respected female art critics from both the UK and Africa.”

    The criteria for artists’ participation in the exhibition include being full-time artists or photographers; should be of African, ethnic minority and Caribbean heritage, be aged between 18 and 30, and must be based in the UK. Interested artists should submit their resumes to info@artalive.org.uk.

     Artists selected are expected to submit a piece of work to Art-Alive Arts Trust, that will be ready to be displayed or placed on an easel. Size 100cm x 100cm ( Square). The piece of art submitted would be auctioned at the event which would help raise funds for the work the charity Art-Alive is doing in the community as 50% of the proceeds would go to the artist.

     “Additionally, we will also recognize three female filmmakers in the following categories: director, producer, and screenwriter, all based in the UK. The criteria for submission include: their latest film that they have produced, written, or directed, they should be full-time filmmakers, including producers and directors, and of African descent. The deadline for submissions is August 20, 2025.”

    Founded in 2001 by Olagoke, AAAT has been inspiring UK youth for over 25 years, transforming lives through art and creativity. By supporting individuals with learning disabilities and challenges, as well as numerous creative artist programs, Art Alive collaborates with institutions such as the National Gallery and the British Museum to reach youth across the UK and Africa, including those in youth hostels, schools, hospitals, and prisons.

  • Yellow is the new black

    Yellow is the new black

    We’re excited to announce ‘Yellow is the New Black’, a solo exhibition by Nigerian-born, London-based artist Ken Nwadiogbu, showing at Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery from 13 August to 6 September 2025, Private view on 12 August, 6-8PM.

    This new body of work explores themes of migration, presence, and identity, reimagined through the colour yellow – the brightest color within the visible spectrum and the most easily noticed by the human eye. Using oil and acrylic on Akwete handwoven fabric from Abia State, Nigeria, Ken creates emotionally charged works that celebrate Black experience in transcendent, everyday moments.

    A woman pushes her palms into a door frame, readying herself to step through. Around her, the space explodes with colour. Only she and the door are fixed within a bright yellow hue. The door is a portal; we can’t know what happens next. Yellow is the New Black, Ken Nwadiogbu’s solo exhibition at Kristin Hjellegjerde, Tower Bridge, finds moments of transcendent beauty in everyday experiences of the Black community. The title is a playful reference to the central colour that runs throughout the show, as well as the vibrancy of Black experience that Nwadiogbu is recreating – yellow being the brightest visible colour the eye can perceive.

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    Nwadiogbu works from photographs that he has taken of his friends, family and other members of the Black immigrant community. Rather than simply recreating the photographic image, however, Nwadiogbu zooms in on specific details or moments that are emotionally charged. He begins by pouring paint onto the canvas, responding to the movement and emotion of colour, his psychological state and the rhythm of the music that he plays in the studio, before painting the figure and fragments of contextual information on top of this textured surface in heightened detail. The result is a series of haunting scenes that sit somewhere between stillness and movement, reality and dream.

  • The craft of creative writing: From shoot to branches

    The craft of creative writing: From shoot to branches

    By Emman Usman Shehu

    Always resist the urge to start with too many characters; even a plant begins as a shoot before developing its peculiar branches.” This insightful observation, seemingly simple, offers a profound metaphor for the craft of creative writing. Like a burgeoning plant, a compelling narrative doesn’t burst forth fully formed with an intricate network of characters and complex subplots. Instead, it commences as a singular, vital shoot—an idea, a core conflict, or a compelling voice—that gradually and organically expands into the rich, multifaceted world we, as readers, come to inhabit.

    The initial “shoot” in creative writing represents the foundational element of a story. This could be a single character with a clear desire, a specific setting that sparks imagination, or a central premise that demands exploration. Rushing to introduce a multitude of characters, elaborate backstories, or convoluted plotlines at the outset can overwhelm both the writer and the reader. It’s akin to planting a sapling with too many branches already attached; the roots haven’t had time to establish, and the structure lacks inherent strength. A strong beginning, therefore, often focuses on establishing one or two key elements, allowing them to take root in the reader’s mind.

    As the narrative progresses, the “shoot” begins to develop its “peculiar branches.” These branches are the secondary characters, the subplots, the thematic explorations, and the intricate details that enrich the story. Just as a plant’s branches grow in unique patterns, shaped by its environment and genetic code, a story’s elements should emerge naturally from its core. A new character might be introduced because their presence is necessary to challenge the protagonist or reveal a new facet of the central conflict. A subplot might sprout to deepen the thematic resonance or provide a moment of respite before a major turning point. This organic development ensures that every element serves a purpose, contributing to the overall strength and coherence of the narrative.

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    Moreover, the metaphor extends to the concept of revision and growth. A gardener doesn’t simply plant a seed and leave it; they nurture it, prune it, and guide its growth. Similarly, a writer’s first draft is rarely the final product. It’s the initial shoot, often raw and unrefined. Through subsequent revisions, the writer prunes away unnecessary elements, strengthens weak connections, and encourages the healthy development of the story’s branches. This iterative process allows the narrative to mature, its complexities to deepen, and its peculiar beauty to fully emerge.

    In essence, the wisdom of starting small is about embracing the power of organic growth. It about trusts the narrative to reveal itself, character by character, plot point by plot point, rather than forcing a predetermined, overstuffed structure. By allowing the story to develop its branches naturally from a strong, central shoot, writers can cultivate narratives that are not only intricate and engaging but also deeply rooted and enduring.

    •Shehu is the author of four poetry collections, Questions for Big Brother, Open Sesame, Icarus Rising and The River Never Returns. He is currently working on a poetry collection, a collection of short stories, and a collection of plays. He is also co-founder of the Abuja Writers Forum (AWF). He is also co-founder of the Abuja Writers Forum (AWF).

  • The rebound of John Mahama

    The rebound of John Mahama

    Title: The Fourth John: Reign, Rejection And Rebound

    Author: Manasseh Azure Awuni

    Reviewer:  Dr Wale Okediran

    Secretary General, Pan African Writers Association

    IN about 400 magisterial pages, Manasseh Azure Awuni, ‘a freelance investigative Ghanaian journalist whose ground-breaking stories have resulted in the shaping of policies in Ghana among other things’ gives a gripping account of an important period in the history of Ghana through the story of an important Ghanaian political actor.

    Timely, compelling and illuminating in equal measure, the book which scrutinizes the life and legacy of the current Ghanaian leader, President John Mahama, also confronts the typical problems of African politics and politicians.

    According to Awuni, the book is not a work of fiction. However, as he put it; ‘’it has all the makings of fiction, except in this case, the writer has no control over either the selection and conduct of the characters or how the drama unfolds’’.

     Written with passion and literary expertise, the author grabs readers by the elbows and propels them with gripping humor, excellent narrative and occasional brutal candor through this voluminous, educative and ambitious book made up of six parts and thirty-three chapters.

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    Born on 29 November 1958, John Dramani Mahama who is currently serving as the 14th President of Ghana since 7 January 2025 previously served as the 12th President from 2012 to 2017 and as the fifth vice president from January 2009 to July 2012.

     He took office as President for the first time on 24 July 2012, following the death of his predecessor, John Atta Mills. With this, he became the first Ghanaian President to have served at all levels of political office (Ghanaian and Pan-African MP, Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice-President and President).

    According to the author, the book’s title; THE FOURTH JOHN came from the fact that John Mahama came after three other ‘Johns’ as Ghanaian President; John Rawlings, John Kuffour and John Mills.

    In relating the remarkable story of an extraordinary man, warts and all, Awuni relished his readers with bold, humorous and poignant episodes in the life of his subject.

     For example, even though the state-owned Daily Graphic newspaper in one of its headlines quoted the President’s family as advising him not to run for the 2020 election, the pressure from his party members to contest the election was real.

    However, in making the ultimate decision to run, John Mahama’s concluding paragraph of his own book; ‘’My First Coup D’etat’’ was quoted on page 353 of THE FOURTH JOHN; ‘’All the decisions I have made in my life were regularly plagued with doubt. What I have learned from my experiences is that the possibility of danger lurks at the very edge of all of life’s decisions. So too does the potential for the most exhilarating ride of your life’’.

    As Awuni’s book moved steadily over the Ghanaian political landscape collecting anecdotes, African proverbs, political nuances and peccadillos, the constant throbbing fascination for me as a former Nigerian MP and government official was the shock of recognition and a feeling of déjà vu in the fascinating narrative.

    With the refrains of ‘ethnicity and regional balancing of appointments’, ‘juicy political offices versus non juicy ones’, ‘the use of technocrats for political appointments as against politicians’ as well as the nagging issues of the constitutional roles of a Vice President and the President’s spouse among others, the book could well be about the politics of Nigeria or of any other African country for that matter.

    Although the author gave no certain answers to some of the issues raised in the book, however, an implicit lesson runs throughout the book ..defending toleration is not leadership, and that persistence is doing a task that never ends and readiness is to start again. 

    As Calvin Coolidge, the 30th US President once observed: “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.”

     Although President John Mahama faced some of the same challenges as many African political leaders did, his second coming as President has given him a chance to redress these problems as best as he could. 

    Thoroughly documented, well written, courageous and provocative, this is a timely book that bridges the gap between an African leader’s rich political background and a challenging future that requires a lot of innovation and creativity.

     Weaving desires, dreams and personal memories into this awesome political narrative, Manasseh Azure Awuni succeeds admirably in making silences speak and fragments coalesce in a fine example of creative non-fiction.

    The book is very relevant to political life in Africa and deserves to be better known.

  • Nigeria Festival 2025 brings Nigerian culture to life in Canada

    Nigeria Festival 2025 brings Nigerian culture to life in Canada

    Brampton’s Gage Park came alive as the Flavours of Nigeria Festival returned for its second edition, offering a vivid celebration of Nigeria’s culture, heritage, and tourism.

    The festival, themed “A Cultural Voyage,” highlighted the historic Benin Culture of Edo State, showcasing music, fashion, arts, and crafts alongside authentic Nigerian cuisine.

    Performances by the Afrikan Peach Cultural Group, Ugandan Cultural Troupe, Bepraise Sax, Shemilore, and the striking Ike ka Ike masquerade captivated attendees from Nigeria, Canada, the Caribbean, and other African communities.

    Convener Chukwuebuka Anyaduba said the festival aims to promote cultural diversity and export Nigeria’s tourism and culture to the world, describing it as more than a food festival but an immersive cultural experience.

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    The Nigerian High Commission in Canada was represented by Charge d’Affaires Ambassador Abba Zanna-Kawu, joined by dignitaries including MPs Sonia Sidhu and Amandeep Sohdi, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, Councillors Paul Vincinte, Rod Power, and Gurpartap Singh Toor, and ministers Charmaine Williams, Stephen Crawford, and Nina Tangri.

    Nollywood actor Uzee Usman, music artiste Jumabee, and celebrity chef Sanni Sherif also attended.

    Co-convener Amb. Akin Oduntan thanked performers, attendees, and partners for making the 2025 edition a success.

    Proudly supported by First Nigeria PLC and Afriex, the festival continues to promote cultural diplomacy, foster unity, and showcase Nigeria’s rich heritage to global audiences.

  • FIRS honours Arabinrin Aderonke for outstanding contribution to public image

    FIRS honours Arabinrin Aderonke for outstanding contribution to public image

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has been recognised with an award of outstanding performance for her role in shaping and enhancing the public image of the organisation.

    The award was presented to her by the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, who was represented by Muhammad Lawal Abubakar, the coordinating director, support service group, during a ceremony held at the FIRS headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, 14 August at the Los Angeles Event Center.

    Speaking after receiving the award, Adedeji commended Atoyebi’s dedication and professionalism, noting that her work had contributed significantly to the service’s communication strategy and public engagement. 

    “Media representation is a critical aspect of public service, and Atoyebi has exemplified excellence in ensuring FIRS’s activities are clearly understood by stakeholders,” he said.

    Reacting to the recognition, Atoyebi expressed gratitude to the FIRS leadership for the honour, describing it as a pivotal moment in her career. 

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    “I thank my boss, the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Chief of Staff, and team members, for their support. This award means a great deal to me, not just as a media professional but as someone deeply committed to projecting the values and achievements of the FIRS. 

    “It reaffirms my belief that consistency, creativity, and integrity in public communication are essential to building trust between government institutions and the people they serve,” she said.

    She added that the award would inspire her to continue innovating in broadcast media strategies that amplify FIRS’s initiatives, while also serving as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with representing a public institution.

    The ceremony formed part of a broader recognition programme aimed at celebrating staff members whose contributions have advanced the service’s strategic goals. 

    Atoyebi’s recognition underscores the growing importance of effective media engagement in shaping public perception of tax administration in Nigeria.

  • This is home coming

    This is home coming

    When 80-year-old Jamaican-born Rotarian Fay Campbell set foot in Nigeria for the first time, it wasn’t just a trip—it was a spiritual return decades in the making. Driven by a lifelong pull to Africa, Fay’s journey became one of rediscovery, healing and deep ancestral connection. From the bustling streets of Lagos to Rotary halls in Abuja, her homecoming revealed a profound truth: sometimes, the places we’ve never been know us best, writes Associate Editor ADEKUNLE YUSUF

    For Fay Campbell, an 80-year-old retired teacher and prominent Rotarian based in Ottawa, Canada, her recent trip to Nigeria was not just a journey across continents—it was a pilgrimage into the depths of ancestry, belonging, and purpose. Born in Jamaica and now a Canadian citizen, Fay served as District Governor of Rotary District 7400, Zone 28, during the 2021–2022 term. Today, she continues to play an active role in the Rotary world as the Interact Chair for her district, fostering youth leadership and global citizenship. Yet, despite a life rich in service and international engagement, one experience had eluded her: setting foot on African soil—the land she believes is her ancestral home. “This is my first trip to Africa, and I’m in Nigeria to discover my ancestry,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “I know I’m a Nigerian—that’s what matters. The tribe is secondary. I’m 90 per cent sure of it. And it’s a great pleasure to be in Africa, my heritage.”

    Her visit was more than symbolic. It was emotional. It was healing. It was transformational. For Fay, the trip to Nigeria wasn’t simply about identity—it was about connection. Throughout her life, she had felt the pull of a distant land, echoed in cultural traditions, food, music, and the resilience of her Jamaican roots. Like many in the Caribbean, Fay believes the path of her lineage leads back to Nigeria, a country that was central to the transatlantic slave trade and whose descendants now form a significant part of the Afro-Caribbean population. “This isn’t just tourism,” she said. “It’s a spiritual homecoming. A rediscovery.”

    Joining her on the journey was her closest friend of over 40 years, Dr. Shirley Braithwaite, 82, a Barbadian-Canadian forensic psychiatrist. Though not a Rotarian herself, Shirley has been a steadfast supporter of Fay’s Rotary journey, attending fundraisers, mentoring youth, and advocating for service above self. “I’m not here as a tourist,” Shirley shared, “I’m here as a witness—to history, to healing, and to friendship.”

    Fay’s passion for community service is as deep as her love for Africa. As Interact Chair, she works with youth across Canada, helping students build empathy and leadership through service. She hopes to extend that vision to Nigerian students by initiating a penpal programme between Interactors in both countries. “I want to connect Nigerian students with their Canadian peers—to create friendships that transcend borders,” Fay said. “When young people learn from each other, they grow into global citizens. These students own the future, and they should know the world is bigger than their immediate surroundings.” Her message to the youth is simple but powerful: “Love one another. Respect each other. Care deeply. These are the things that heal the world.”

    Beyond her work with Interact, Fay has also been active in global humanitarian efforts, raising funds for causes in Jamaica, the United States, and Colombia. But Nigeria, she says, now holds a special place in her heart. Walking the streets, talking to local people, and embracing the culture has been deeply affirming. She is more convinced than ever that many Jamaicans share roots in this vibrant West African nation. Though her stay was short, its impact was profound. For Fay Campbell, this was not just a personal journey—it was a generational reconnection, one she hopes will inspire others in the diaspora to seek their heritage, engage with the continent, and build enduring bridges between Africa and its global children.

    Long before their journey to Nigeria, Fay and Shirley had already travelled the world together in service of a shared mission. When Fay served as District Friendship Exchange Chair for Rotary District 7400, Shirley accompanied her on an international exchange to Russia—a trip that only deepened their bond and reaffirmed Rotary’s unique power to connect people across borders. “Rotary truly brings the world together,” Shirley reflects. “Wherever you go, you’re not a stranger—you’re among family.”

    This ethos of connection has long shaped Shirley’s own path. A respected forensic psychiatrist and lifelong advocate for youth empowerment, she established the Dr. Shirley Braithwaite Foundation with a mission to support education for Black youth, especially those from underserved communities. Her passion for mentorship also finds expression in her unwavering support for RYLA—the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy—where she proudly sponsors participants from her district. RYLA is more than just a programme; it’s a transformative experience. A week-long leadership boot camp for young adults, RYLA offers hands-on workshops, group activities, and values-based learning rooted in Rotary’s core pillars: service, ethics, and peacebuilding. “These young leaders return with new confidence, perspective, and purpose,” Shirley says. “It’s a joy to watch them grow.”

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    In Nigeria, Fay and Shirley found themselves embraced by that same spirit of service and connection. From the moment they arrived, they were overwhelmed by the warmth of the people—especially fellow Rotarians who hosted and guided them throughout their stay. “We feel very much at home,” Shirley said with genuine appreciation. Adding to that sense of belonging was a personal connection—she confirmed familial ties to Dr. Robert Agbowu, a Lagos-based medical doctor who has since reinvented himself as a pastry chef. “Nigeria is in our blood,” she smiled.

    Their journey began with a flight from Toronto to Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital, transiting through Cairo. For Fay Campbell, an 80-year-old Jamaican-born Rotarian, and her longtime friend Dr. Shirley Braithwaite, this trip was far more than a simple visit—it was a profound homecoming years in the making. Upon arrival, they immersed themselves in Abuja’s vibrant culture, exploring landmarks and attending Rotary events, where they connected warmly with local members eager to share their customs and community work. Abuja, blending modern architecture with rich cultural heritage, provided a meaningful introduction to Nigeria. Rotary events became a platform for cross-cultural exchange, strengthening ties across continents. After several days in the capital, Fay and Shirley traveled to Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub, spending five energetic days soaking up the city’s dynamic spirit.

    They stayed at Adna Hotel in GRA, Ikeja—known for its peaceful estates and as the meeting venue for the Rotary Club of Ikeja South, District 9111. During their stay, the club hosted a special reception in their honour, coinciding with District Governor Henry Akinyele’s official visit on July 17. The event brought together many notable Rotarians, including Past District Governor Remi Bello, who had served alongside Fay in the same Rotary year. Their reunion was heartfelt, underscoring the lasting relationships Rotary fosters worldwide.

    The highlight of Fay’s visit, however, was her cultural and genealogical journey—a deeply personal quest to reclaim a heritage fractured by history. In a moving ceremony, she was honoured with four Nigerian names: Omotunde, Ngozi, Amina, and Ebehireme. Each name holds unique cultural and ethnic significance, representing different Nigerian traditions. “These names are more than just titles,” Fay said. “They affirm my identity and roots—roots I always sensed but had never physically walked upon. Now, I carry them with immense pride.”

    Throughout their time in Abuja and Lagos, Fay and Shirley embraced Nigerian culture fully. They donned brightly coloured traditional attire and savoured authentic dishes such as jollof rice, ofada rice, amala with ewedu and gbegiri, moi moi, and pepper soup. Breakfasts were simpler—a continental spread of tea and lemon—offering a gentle start to busy days. Their itinerary included two major Rotary ceremonies: the investiture of Joy Okoro as Governor of District 9127, where new Rotarians were inducted, and the presidential installation of Kunmi Adio-Moses as President of the Rotary Club of Omole-Golden, District 9111. These events reinforced the vibrancy of Nigeria’s Rotary community and deepened Fay’s connection. Fay’s journey was not just a physical trip but a spiritual homecoming rooted in ancestry and destiny, shaped by the enduring spirit of Rotary service. Though her first trip to Africa, the emotional ties had been lifelong. “This trip has always been in my heart,” she said. “The pull to Africa has been strong all my life. I knew I had to come—it was just a matter of when.”

    Determined to make the most of her time, Fay had one last stop planned before returning to Canada: the National Museum in Lagos.

    She had found its location online and insisted, with characteristic enthusiasm, “I need to see it with my own eyes—to understand where we came from.” This visit was the final piece in a deeply personal puzzle she had been assembling for years. The journey’s origins trace back to the previous year’s Rotary International Convention in Singapore. There, Fay met Past Assistant Governor Oye Oyewo of the Rotary Club of Abuja Resettlement, District 9127, who also serves on the Rotary Action Group for Hepatitis Eradication’s board. Moved by Fay’s story, Oyewo extended a heartfelt invitation to visit Nigeria. That invitation sparked her long-awaited return to ancestral soil.

    Though Oyewo was abroad when Fay and Shirley arrived, Rotary’s warmth remained. Rotarian Anthonia Unigwe generously offered home hospitality during their Abuja stay, exemplifying the spontaneous kindness and fellowship Rotary is known for. In Lagos, Past Assistant Governor Ben Okhumale of the Rotary Club of Gowon Estate, Ipaja (District 9111), took over coordination. Along with myself—a member of the Rotary Club of Lagos, District 9112, and Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator for Africa—and Martins Olukayode, charter president of the e-Rotary Club of Omole-Golden Impact, we curated an itinerary rich with cultural and Rotary engagements.

    After several days at Adna Hotel, Past District Governor Dele Balogun and his wife Yemisi graciously hosted Fay and Shirley for the last three days. They visited the J.K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, local markets, and Rotary project sites—including the neonatal building project at General Hospital, Ifako-Ijaiye, led by the Rotary Club of Omole-Golden. These visits went beyond sightseeing; they revealed Nigeria’s resilience, generosity, and culture of service.

    Fay, the second of four siblings, is the proud mother of Ward Lentz, a 35-year-old public health professional and Canadian Armed Forces officer. Her journey—from Jamaica to Canada, and now Nigeria—reflects a life that spans nations yet remains anchored in purpose. Before moving to Canada and joining Rotary over two decades ago, Fay studied cosmetology at the Leon School of Beauty Culture in Kingston, Jamaica—a foundation for her early career. Her story defies convention. In a remarkable twist, Fay shares a birthday—February 6—with Bob Marley (1945–1981), the legendary Jamaican singer and cultural icon. Like Marley, who used music to unite and inspire, Fay uses Rotary and service to connect communities and foster global understanding. Though her Nigerian journey has ended, it marks a new beginning. With her heart full and heritage affirmed, Fay returns to Canada not merely as a visitor, but as a daughter of the land—Omotunde, Ngozi, Amina, Ebehireme—who has finally come home.

  • Oba Sijuwade’s enduring legacy resonates at Ecobank

    Oba Sijuwade’s enduring legacy resonates at Ecobank

    After a successful outing marking the tenth year memorial celebrations in honour of the late Oba Okunade Adele Sijuwade (Olubuse II), the 50th Ooni of Ife, who reigned from 1980 to 2015 on July 25, at the Harbour Point on Victoria Island, Lagos, 

    The Crown and the Legacy, a memorial art exhibition berthed at Ecobank Head Office Complex, Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos. The second leg of the exhibition, which opened on August 4th to August 17th, was put together by Ecobank Pan African Centre Studios, in collaboration with the Sijuwade Royal Family.

    Last Friday, it was an exclusive viewing for some Arts Writers who were conducted round the exhibition by the duo of the Curator and Consultant to Sijuwade Royal Family, Dr. Oludamola Adebowale and Mr. Atinse Robert of National Museum, Lagos.

    At a glance, one can see that the exhibition is a culmination of extensive work, featuring archival materials and treasured objects meticulously sourced from a rich array of repositories; state archives, Sijuwade royal family archives, museums and private collectors and government institutions.

    Mounted within an expansive hall, the collections are displayed in different sections such as coronation, ascension and rebirth of a kingdom; National Commission for Museum and Monuments corner; enduring legacy of Ooni of Ife corner; diplomatic corner and photo section. All this body of works which range from colourful regalia, to rare photographs, staff of office, other memorabilia and personal effects including invitation letters to top government functions, cheque book, bank’s black card, album covers of King Sunny Ade, Prince Yemi Kuti, Orlando Owoh and Ebenezer Obey music, tells a visual story of the life and times of the late Oba Sijuwade.

    Providing historical perspective to the exhibition are some works loaned by the National Museum Lagos. The artefacts, which are displayed in glass cubicles within the NCMM corner include Ife terra cotta head, (from Odo Ogbe street, produced between 12th to 15th century); Ife bronze head (a bronze crowned head, from Wunmonije compound 12th to 15th century); bronze figure of Ooni (in full traditional regalia, from Ita Yemoo 12th to 15th century) and bronze head of Ooni. 

    As you move through the hall, you will encounter more than a display of historical objects as you will also experience a reawakening of the collective memory of the Yoruba people.

    According to the exhibition team, ‘each photograph, each ceremonial garment, each royal artifact carries with it a story: of leadership grounded in heritage yet responsive to modernity, of vision and statesmanship that transcend borders and inspired generations.’

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    With the second outing of the memorial exhibition at Ecobank Headquarters, it is a ‘reminder that our heritage is not confined within the walls of a single palace or the pages of a local chronicle- they are a testament to cultural narratives that belong to global history’. 

    Earlier on Monday August 4, at the opening of the exhibition,  Yeye Olori Oladunni Sijuwade described the exhibition as ‘the beauty of His Majesty,’ offering art enthusiasts a rare and intimate glimpse into the monarch’s regal attire, cultural elegance, and enduring legacy—10 years after his demise.

    Dr. Adebowale stated that the exhibition is a tribute and an educational platform, preserving history and illuminating Yoruba heritage. Commending the partnership, Adebowale called for more corporate interest in cultural heritage projects, citing Ecobank’s involvement as an exemplary model.

    Mr. Atinse Robert, of the National Museum, Lagos saluted the Sijuwade Royal Family for celebrating their patriarch and Yoruba heritage adding that such an exhibition should be encouraged to preserve culture and tradition.

    Head of Corporate Communications at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor, said the exhibition aligns with Ecobank’s mission to preserve and promote African heritage.  According to him, “Hosting this memorial exhibition in partnership with the Sijuwade Royal Family is a privilege and a reflection of our commitment to celebrating and empowering our rich, diverse communities across the continent.”