The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • Environmentalists turn old TV parts to canvas

    Environmentalists turn old TV parts to canvas

    An innovative art exhibition in Lagos has turned environmental consciousness into artistic expression, as Ondo State environmentalists repurposed a discarded Skyworth television screen into a canvas to unveil the American Eagle Coins Thorncarving, advocating for wildlife conservation and sustainable waste management.

     The exhibition, titled NO TO EXTINCTION, was spearheaded by Ondo State Goodwill Ambassador for Environment, Ms Olayemi Olapeju, and aimed at addressing the extinction of African bush elephants while promoting the waste-to-wealth initiative.

    Chairing the event, former Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Dr Funso Esan, emphasised the urgent need for Africa to implement strong policies for habitat protection and conservation. Citing the successful resurgence of the bald eagle in the United States, he called for concerted efforts to protect endangered wildlife.

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     “Africa’s wildlife is being decimated by habitat destruction and illegal hunting, causing their populations to decline. Extinction is forever, but the current endangered state of our wildlife means there is still hope. With joint efforts from the government and the public, we can protect and restore our wildlife populations,” he said.

    He explained the significance of the showcased thorncarving coins artwork, saying: “The stately image of the United States’ bald eagle, glued onto the screen of a discarded television, symbolizes both the waste-to-wealth initiative and the potential for endangered wildlife to make a comeback. In 2008, the U.S. government minted coins featuring the bald eagle to commemorate its return from the brink of extinction. Similarly, we hope the African bush elephant’s recovery will become a success story in the near future.”

    Ms. Olapeju revealed that the artwork was a collaborative effort featuring contributions from herself, Mrs. Bolajoko Ayeni, and Mr. Charles Olulaja Akeredolu, the son of the late Chief J. D. Akeredolu, renowned for inventing thorncarving.

    Explaining the inspiration behind the piece, Ms. Olapeju said: “We decided to transform a junked television screen into a valuable art canvas as part of our waste-to-wealth initiative, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable electronics in landfills. The eagle coins represent wildlife species that have made a strong comeback from the brink of extinction.”

    She further highlighted the symbolism embedded in the artwork, pointing out that the eagle coins depicted in the piece represent wildlife species that have successfully rebounded from the brink of extinction.

  • With Free Spirit, Ogiugo stuns collectors in Texas

    With Free Spirit, Ogiugo stuns collectors in Texas

    Like music, visual art is a universal language legends such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Leonard Da Vinci entrenched across the globe with their classical works of art. Till date, those paintings, drawings and sculptures are not only timeless, but also priceless in global art market. In January this year, a 22-year-old painting, Free Spirit by one of Nigeria’s master artists, Mr Edosa Ogiugo, a product of the famous Yaba Art School, Lagos, became the toast of Americans, especially residents of Houston in Texas.

    Ogiugo, who studied Fine Arts at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, was in the U.S to execute an adaptation of his painting into wall mural, as part of a mural series themed Legacies of Change, in Harris County, Houston Texas. The project was curated by Street Art for Mankind to celebrate the power of cultural diversity through dance.

    The mural, depicting Benin women dancing, captures the Nigerian artist’s signature modern impressionist style on an unprecedented scale. It highlights the free spirit, vibrant energy, and graceful movement of traditional dancers, echoing Edgar Degas’s famous ballerina paintings. This work with the trappings of Benin royalty is especially meaningful in Houston, which has a large population of African descents.

    It is part of Legacies of Change, a mural series inspired by the power of collective action to build lasting positive change. It was made possible thanks to the drive and generous support of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis.

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    With over 90 languages spoken, Houston is home to a multitude of ethnicities, reflected in local festivals that highlight music, art, dance, and theater from around the world. It serves as a reminder that diverse perspectives and values enrich collective efforts and help address challenges more effectively.

    In a recent interactive session at his residence in Lagos, Ogiugo recalled that the painting he sold at an exhibition in Pretoria, South Africa years ago has fetched him honour of being part of a global project curated by Street Art for Mankind.

    He said despite the snowstorm that kept him off the project on arriving Houston, he was able to complete the murals in seven days as against the 10 days earmarked. Before leaving Lagos, he was told Houston shares similar weather with Lagos and as such had nothing to worry about. But, that was not to be, as weather changed dramatically.

    “Unfortunately, the place they told me was like Lagos’ weather, changed dramatically. There was a snowstorm and for two days, I couldn’t work because it was an outdoor project, a wall measuring 90ft x 20ft.

    But, the Commissioner of Harris County assisted me with jackets, and all that to keep me warm. Interestingly, the hosts commended me saying that I exceeded expectations. Instead of 10 days, I did 7 days non-stop. But the reality is, while I was working, I was just there on the lift from morning to night. In fact, there were times I laid down on the lift just to have a break.

    There was a day I worked straight eight hours painting. And I told myself I won’t repeat that because when I got down that evening, my body started to react.  However, at the end of the day, I’m happy I was able to accomplish it.  It was amazing to me how they were excited.

    “As a result of that, I was immediately asked to start another project. But, in a bigger venue, the Rodeo Centre. That’s at the Astrodome. But, because I was so stressed, I still call it a stressful fun. I really enjoyed my time. Yes, it was an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. So, I had to take a break. The reason I’m back in Nigeria. Hopefully, once the details of the other one is sorted out, I should be able to go back to that project,” he disclosed.

    He explained that Free Spirits was taken from one of his dancer celebration series that shows a group of Benin dancers dressed in royal costumes-wearing coral beads, and head gear that is replica of the Iyoba, the Queen Mother of a Benin monarch. The mural is a tribute to the free spirit of the Nigerian community—their dance, their music, and their joie de vivre in Nigeria as well as in Houston.

    “Free Spirit is an adaptation of a painting I did in 2003. It was acquired at a group exhibition in Pretoria, South Africa. I think first, I would say that it’s a miracle, because something I saw over 20 years ago, having a life or taking a life of its own, is a miracle,” he recalled. The original painting was bought by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis at the exhibition in Pretoria.  

    He said as an artist he believes in the contemporary time and owes it a duty to document passing history, or passing culture because these are moments that you can’t freeze.

    “I think that’s why we are gifted to be artists within a community like this. So, ours is to take the essence, document it for posterity’s sake,” he added.

    On why the choice of Free spirit for adaptation in mural, Ogiugo said it is a mystery to him, as he cannot find answer to the question. He however believes that Free Spirits surely resonates with not just the concept of inclusivity and multicultural environment, but the fact that there are indigenes of US who can relate with the elements of the picture.

    Yet, he wondered how relevant the painting is to the community. “That’s the intriguing thing because I was asking, why choose this particular painting? What I think is the expression and the creativity. Houston is made up of a mixed community. And from records, I heard that as we speak, the largest population of blacks in Houston is that of Nigerians.

    “So, definitely Free Spirits will resonate with not just the concept of inclusivity and multicultural environment. But the fact is that you also have indigenes of US who can relate with the elements of the picture. So, while rendering or doing the adaptation of the painting, a lot of people came to admire and appreciate the work in progress.

    “The very good thing that gladdened my heart was that I had children as young as three years coming to tell me ‘thank you for beautifying and educating our community.’ They also said, ‘thank you for bringing sunshine.’ There was an elderly lady who came and said, ‘every time I come here, I just feel lifted and I’m happy,” he said of his experiences.

    Ogiugo who was part of about 12 artists drawn from across the globe that participated in the project hinted that fifty limited edition prints will be made out of the mural.

    “As an artist, I believe in the contemporary time, I owe it a duty to document passing history, or what you might call passing culture because these are moments that you can’t freeze. I think that’s why we are gifted to be artists within a community like this. So, ours is to take the essence, document it for posterity’s sake…Every artist should be true to what he or she does. It’s not about staying too much in the comfort zone,” he added.

  • Finding beauty in life’s bittersweet moments

    Finding beauty in life’s bittersweet moments

    Title: A Throw of a Lemon

    Author: Tunde Adeparusi

    Publisher: Kindle Google Book

    Reviewer: Chinyere Okoroafor

    Pagination: 190

    A Throw of a Lemon is a powerful poetry collection that explores life’s ups and downs with emotion and meaning.

    Written by the talented poet ’Tunde Adeparusi, this book captures the joys, struggles, and discoveries that shape human experiences.

    Each poem in this collection tells a story—of love and loss, hope and pain, identity and change. The poet uses simple but vivid language to describe moments that everyone can relate to. Like a lemon, life can be both bitter and refreshing, and the poet reminds us to embrace both sides with courage.

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    What makes this book special is how it turns everyday experiences into something beautiful and meaningful. The poet finds wisdom in small moments—moments of sadness, moments of happiness, and moments of reflection. Through rich imagery and thoughtful words, the reader is invited to see life in a new way.

    More than just poetry, A Throw of a Lemon is a journey of survival, growth, and renewal. It encourages readers to find strength in tough times and appreciate the simple joys of life.

    Whether you love poetry or are new to it, this book will touch your heart and stay with you long after you turn the last page.

    A must-read for anyone who enjoys deep, thought-provoking writing.

  • Destalker laughter crusade UK tour begins April 8

    Destalker laughter crusade UK tour begins April 8

    The King of Stage  Dr. Oghenekowhoyan Onaibe Desmond, popularly known as Destalker will commence his UK tour with a London Show on April 8 while the major show will be held on Easter Sunday April 20, 2025.

    The main event which will take place at Log Hall Abbey Quilting Selinas Lane, Dagenham, RM8 1ES with Red Carpet starting at 6pm UK time while the event kickstart proper at 7pm, would feature entertainers like Kelvin Great, MC Royal, Chaka Chaka, DJ Khayslay, Abarie and among others.

    Destalker is coming to the United Kingdom with the raves of the moment currently on the Nigeria comedy scene MC Royal and Abarie, the biggest comedian DJ in Nigeria DJ Khayslay and a whole lot of surprise guests and appearances during the tour. Get ready for jokes that you have never heard before, and be ready to get your ribs cracked all the way.

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    Tickets are still fast selling for all cities, call for your city, go get your tickets, and prepare to come laugh away into stability.

    The award winning comedian during an interview with journalists in  Lagos disclosed that he will be live in the United Kingdom to dish out the best comedy experience ever.

    According to him, “My people in the United Kingdom, I am coming in a few weeks to dish out the best comedy experience you all will ever experience.

    This time, Destalker said: “I am coming with my full team, and we are bringing all the best forms of comedy and entertainment you can think of.

    “United Kingdom will experience the raves of the moment currently on the Nigeria comedy scene MC Royal and Abarie, the biggest comedian DJ in Nigeria DJ Khayslay and a whole lot of surprise guests and appearances during the tour. Get ready for jokes that you’ve never heard before, and be ready to get your ribs cracked all the way. Come laugh away into stability.”

  • DejiGreen champions faith, culture, and youth empowerment through music

    DejiGreen champions faith, culture, and youth empowerment through music

    Fast-rising Afrobeat sensation DejiGreen is not just making waves with his soulful hits like “God Did,” “Tag Team,” and “Saviour”, he’s inspiring a new generation of young Nigerians to believe in the power of their dreams, no matter how big or unconventional they may seem.

    In a recent interview, the Lagos-born singer opened up about his musical journey, personal struggles, and the message he hopes to pass on to his growing fan base, particularly young creatives navigating a challenging social and economic landscape.

    “Music gave me a voice when I didn’t always have the words,” DejiGreen said. “Choosing music wasn’t a decision; it was something I felt called to do.”

    DejiGreen’s story resonates deeply with Nigerian youth, many of whom face systemic pressures to “play it safe” instead of pursuing their passions. His songs, often marked by spiritual and triumphant themes, reflect his strong belief in purpose, resilience, and faith.

    “My ‘why’ is impact,” he explained. “I want to inspire people—especially young creatives who feel like their dreams are too big. Music is how I push back against the idea that we must shrink ourselves to fit into what society expects.”

    Known for his clean Afrobeat bounce, melodic hooks, and emotionally-charged lyrics, DejiGreen is carving a niche that blends musical excellence with emotional depth. While rooted in Afrobeat, his music reaches beyond entertainment—often touching on issues of identity, spirituality, and self-worth.

    “Faith is the foundation of everything I do,” he said. “I’m not trying to preach, but I want people to know there’s strength in vulnerability and hope in dark places.”

    More than a music career, DejiGreen says he’s building a movement that promotes authenticity, resilience, and positive energy.

    “There’s already so much noise in the world,” he said. “I want to bring clarity and good vibes through my music.”

    With more singles, collaborations, and live performances on the horizon, DejiGreen is positioning himself not just as an artist but as a voice for youth empowerment through creative expression.

    “Don’t wait for permission—no dey look Uche face. Start now. You matter, and so does your voice.”

  • Women Affairs Minister, others honoured for outstanding leadership 

    Women Affairs Minister, others honoured for outstanding leadership 

    The Arise TV Board of Editors has honoured the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for her outstanding leadership in championing the cause of women, children and vulnerable groups. 

    The event, which was held at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre on Monday, was graced by prominent Nigerian women who are making impacts in government, politics, business, finance and the creative economy. 

    Represented by founder of the Alafia Foundation, Mrs Olasumbo Odunsi, the minister was hailed for redefining public service with her focus on gender equality and humanitarian governance. 

    She was also recognised for championing policies that are uplifting women and children. 

    The Board of Editors added that her data-driven and people-focused approach has ensured inclusion, uniting Nigerian women under a shared vision. 

    Other awardees include First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her advocacy for women’s empowerment; Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a trailblazer in global economic leadership; Dr Amina Mohammed, the Deputy UN Secretary General, for championing sustainable development; Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Hadiza Bala Usman, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment. 

    Others are Minister of Arts and Culture, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, Senator Natasha Akpoti, among others.

    Responding to the honour done her and the recognition of her commitments to her national assignments, the minister thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and make meaningful impacts. 

    She also appreciated the management and staff of Arise TV by Prince Nduka Obaigbena for showcasing the strength of women and their accomplishments. 

    “It is truly a privilege to be recognised among the 65 Women Making Impacts in politics and governance.

    “This honour is a reminder of the work we continue to do in advancing Women and children’s rights , protection, empowerment, and leadership. 

    “Together, we keep pushing for a more inclusive and equitable future.

    “Congratulations to all the awardees, The Nigerian Woman is a force to reckon with.”

  • How Deming’s 14 Principles provide the foundation for positionless marketing

    How Deming’s 14 Principles provide the foundation for positionless marketing

    By Anietie Udoh

    W. Edwards Deming revolutionized manufacturing with his 14 principles, emphasizing quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement. His approach wasn’t just about making production lines more effective—it was about fostering a culture of excellence, adaptability, and long-term growth.

    Today, marketing is facing its own transformation. The traditional model—where campaigns are rigidly structured with separate teams handling data, creativity, and execution in a linear sequence—has become outdated in a world where consumers expect real-time engagement.

    Positionless Marketing builds on Deming’s principles by empowering marketers to act swiftly, collaborate seamlessly, and use AI-driven tools to engage audiences instantly—without sacrificing quality. In essence, it mirrors the agility and innovation required in a fast-paced economy like Nigeria’s, where businesses must constantly evolve to stay ahead.

    Below, we explore how Deming’s 14 principles serve as the backbone of Positionless Marketing, showing that whether you’re running a multinational brand or a thriving business in Lagos, or anywhere else, adaptability is key.

    1. Establish a Constant Purpose for Improvement

    Deming believed that businesses should be committed to continuous improvement rather than short-term fixes.

    In Positionless Marketing, this means rejecting rigid, pre-planned campaigns in favor of AI-driven strategies that evolve in real time. It’s no longer about hitting quarterly targets alone but about staying relevant and responding dynamically to consumer behaviors. Think of it like Lagos traffic—those who adapt and find alternative routes reach their destination faster than those stuck on a single path.

    2. Adopt the New Philosophy

    Organizations that resist change are doomed to fall behind.

    Positionless Marketing demands a shift in mindset—from a step-by-step, factory-style marketing process to an agile, real-time approach. Instead of waiting for different teams to complete their tasks sequentially, marketers are empowered to act independently, reducing delays and staying ahead of the competition.

    Just as Nigerian entrepreneurs have embraced fintech, e-commerce, and digital banking to stay relevant, marketers must embrace AI and automation to remain competitive in today’s market.

    3. Stop Relying on Inspections

    In manufacturing, inspections don’t improve quality—they only catch mistakes after they’ve happened. Deming argued that quality must be embedded in the process.

    Positionless Marketing operates the same way. Instead of waiting for post-campaign reports to determine what worked, marketers can adjust messaging, creative, and targeting in real time using AI and automation. The era of waiting weeks for insights is over—marketers now make immediate, data-driven decisions, much like a savvy trader in Balogun market, Lagos who knows exactly when to restock fast-moving goods.

    4. Commit to Continuous Improvement

    Deming’s philosophy of ongoing refinement is at the heart of Positionless Marketing.

    Rather than running campaigns in a “set-it-and-forget-it” manner, AI-powered tools allow marketers to test, learn, and iterate constantly. Real-time feedback loops ensure that messaging stays fresh and relevant, similar to how Nigerian businesses pivot rapidly in response to market trends, from jollof rice delivery apps to viral social media campaigns.

    5. Provide On-the-Job Training

    Deming emphasized the need for continuous learning so that employees could adapt to industry shifts.

    For Positionless Marketers, this means staying ahead of digital trends, understanding data analytics, and mastering customer engagement tools. While AI handles execution, human expertise remains invaluable.

    6. Implement Leadership that Empowers, Not Micromanages

    Deming believed leadership should guide and support rather than control.

    Positionless Marketing embraces this by allowing marketers to make data-driven decisions without waiting for executive approvals. AI insights enable swift, confident action, ensuring speed without sacrificing quality. The true leader in marketing is the consumer, whose preferences dictate success.

    7. Eliminate Fear in the Workplace

    A culture of fear stifles innovation. Deming argued that employees should feel safe experimenting and making improvements.

    Positionless Marketing removes unnecessary bureaucracy. Marketers are encouraged to test, iterate, and refine strategies without fear of failure—because AI and real-time analytics provide instant feedback for course correction.

    8. Break Down Silos Between Departments

    Deming believed that inefficiencies arise when teams work in isolation.

    Positionless Marketing removes silos by integrating data, creativity, and execution into a single, AI-powered system. This ensures that marketing teams function like an interconnected ecosystem rather than separate departments. The result? Faster execution and higher engagement.

    9. Get Rid of Meaningless Slogans

    Deming discouraged vague corporate slogans, urging businesses to communicate with clarity.

    Positionless Marketing achieves this by replacing generic messaging with hyper-personalized engagement. AI ensures that brand interactions are relevant and specific to each customer, making marketing more effective. Instead of the old-school “Buy Now!” approach, brands must communicate authentically.

    10. Move Beyond Vanity Metrics

    Deming warned against focusing on numbers alone without considering long-term impact.

    Positionless Marketing prioritizes sustainable engagement over short-term vanity metrics. Instead of chasing likes and clicks, brands focus on deeper customer relationships and lifetime value. In a country like Nigeria, where trust is a key factor in purchasing decisions, authentic engagement matters more than inflated analytics.

    11. Remove Barriers to Creativity

    Deming advocated for giving employees ownership over their work.

    Positionless Marketers enjoy creative freedom, adjusting messaging dynamically based on real-time customer behavior. Marketers in a Positionless framework have the flexibility to craft narratives that resonate deeply with their audiences.

    12. Encourage Lifelong Learning

    Deming pushed for continuous education and skill development.

    Positionless Marketers must evolve with the industry, staying informed about AI advancements, consumer psychology, and digital trends.

    13. Build a Reliable System, Not a Patchwork of Tools

    Deming believed that consistency in production came from a reliable, streamlined process.

    For Positionless Marketing to work, brands must invest in cohesive, AI-driven platforms rather than cobbling together multiple disjointed tools. Just as fintech platforms like Flutterwave and Paystack have simplified digital payments in Nigeria, Positionless Marketing thrives on seamless technology that enables independence and efficiency.

    14. Make Transformation Everyone’s Responsibility

    Deming emphasized that change should not come from leadership alone but from every level of an organization.

    Positionless Marketing follows the same principle. Marketers at all levels are empowered to execute independently while still collaborating when needed. It’s about fostering an agile, proactive culture.

    Why Positionless Marketing is the Future

    Deming’s principles revolutionized manufacturing, and today, they serve as the foundation for Positionless Marketing. In a rapidly evolving digital world, continuous improvement, real-time decision-making, and AI-driven execution define success.

    Much like Nigeria’s dynamic business landscape—where innovation thrives in tech hubs, markets, and creative industries—Positionless Marketing is about staying ahead by being flexible, fast, and forward-thinking. If Deming were alive today, he wouldn’t just be optimizing production lines—he’d be reimagining them for the AI-powered, Positionless future.

    And in true Nigerian fashion, those who refuse to adapt will be left behind—but those who embrace change will lead the market, setting the pace for the rest of the world.

  • Lasgidi FM unveils new voices to redefine radio broadcasting

    Lasgidi FM unveils new voices to redefine radio broadcasting

    Lagos-based radio station Lasgidi 90.1 FM has strengthened its lineup with the addition of three seasoned broadcasters, bringing a mix of energy, expertise, and engaging content to its growing audience. The newly unveiled on-air personalities—Queen Temi-T, The Big Aunty, and Ammybaby—are set to shape conversations and entertainment on the station’s diverse programs.

    Temitope Chiekezie, popularly known as Queen Temi-T, is a veteran broadcaster with experience spanning Silverbird/Rhythm FM, Naija FM, and Unilag Radio. She now co-hosts GidiRuns alongside Felix Egbomuche every weekday from 10 AM to 2 PM, delivering vibrant discussions and engaging content. 

    Beyond her daily slot, she also curates weekend specials, including the Gospel Top 10 countdown on Sundays and Beta Pikin, a dedicated children’s show from 2 PM to 3 PM. Additionally, she lends her voice to Oro Obirin, a new women-focused talk show.

    Another major addition is Christiana Iheoma Alexander-Ochei, widely known as The Big Aunty, a seasoned journalist, talk show host, and relationship counselor. She co-hosts Totori Xpress with Mc Wazoo, airing weekdays from 2 PM to 6 PM, where she engages listeners with thought-provoking discussions on relationships, family, and society. 

    Married for 18 years and with a background in family coaching, she brings depth and relatable conversations that resonate with a wide audience.

    Rivers State-born Anaemeje B. Amaka, popularly known as Ammybaby, is a dynamic broadcaster with a background in theatre arts from the University of Port Harcourt. Since beginning her radio career in 2019, she has worked with Wish 99.5 FM and Wave FM before joining Lasgidi 90.1 FM. 

    She co-hosts Life and Love Mattaz with VJ Gweena on Mondays to Wednesdays and plays a major role in Giditainment from 12 PM to 2 PM. Her versatility extends to Oro Obirin, where she engages in conversations on women’s issues.

    Kolade Dominate, Acting General Manager of Lasgidi 90.1 FM, describes this new lineup as a game-changer:

    “Radio is more than just sound—it’s a connection, a lifeline, and an experience. With Queen Temi-T, The Big Aunty, and Ammybaby joining our family, we are not just raising the bar; we are setting a new standard for engaging and impactful radio. Lagos, get ready for something extraordinary!”

  • Nollywood graces Series Mania, puts Nigerian content on global stage

    Nollywood graces Series Mania, puts Nigerian content on global stage

    As part of its commitment to industry development, support and elevation, the French Embassy in Nigeria supported Nigerian producers of television series in attending the annual Series Mania Festival.        

     After bringing a Nigerian delegation to MIPCOM in Cannes, France, last year, the Embassy invited 10 top Nigerian TV series producers to Lille to attend the biggest TV series Market in Europe from the 25-27 March 2025.

     It was three days of pitching, networking and high-level conferences.

      The producers met other top-level TV industry leaders from studios, channels and platforms, shared their views on subjects that structure the global audiovisual industry and worked to promote international cooperation. 

    The event also featured showcases of series from all over the world, round table discussions and impactful masterclasses.

     Started in Lille in 2018, Series Mania has become the biggest event dedicated uniquely to television series in Europe. 

    The festival offers exclusive world premieres of the greatest international series on the big screen, giving its audience, up to 85,500 spectators, eight days of discoveries, parties and masterclasses with some of the most renowned personalities in the series world.

    Series Mania welcomes French and foreign professionals of the TV industry at Series Mania Forum. 

    It is the industry event and in 2024, welcomed 4,200 professionals from more than 72 countries and from five continents.

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     It has become a must attend event to fully support drama series, from writing to broadcasting and in particular, its best-and-upcoming writers. 

    Many intensive writing workshops, as well as programmes aiming at breaking the silos of series production and encouraging international collaboration are undertaken throughout the year before being presented to professionals during the Forum.  

    Over three days, participants networked, shared insights and collaborated to elevate Nigerian content on the global stage.

    Industry professionals and TV series producers also explored new opportunities and tackled industry challenges.

     “Séries Mania offers several opportunities for African creators” Christophe Pecot, Audiovisual Attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria, “notably through programs such as AuthenticA Series Lab and the Creation Africa pavilion. 

    “This initiative of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs showcases African talent and facilitates meetings with industry professionals. Two networking events (Industry Breakfast with African Talents and a conference about how to initiate projects in Africa: opportunities and success stories) are also organized to foster collaborations.”

       Moses Babatope, CEO, Nile Entertainement Group added: “Nollywood’s journey to Series Mania is key in our industry’s global narrative. French Government’s initiative demonstrates remarkable consistency in strengthening creative industry ties between our nations, despite cultural and language differences. 

    “For Nigerian producers, Series Mania offers invaluable networking opportunities and opens doors to content development and production collaborations that were previously unimaginable. 

    “This is a strategic gateway to partnerships that will elevate our content. This sustained diplomatic investment in creative exchange is all we need to craft a future where global television will be written with African ink.”

       Nigerian companies that attended include Nile Media Entertainment Group, BAP Productions, FilmOne Limited, Kap Motion Pictures, LaVida Studios, Bluhouse Studios, Raconteur Productions, Blackverse Studios, Anakle Films and Inkblot Productions.

    This support to the Nigerian Audiovisual Industry was made possible thanks to specific funds. This year again, the program called “Creation Africa” helped to support entrepreneurship in the sector of cultural and Creative industries. This fund has been entrusted for a period of 18 months by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

  • Making National Theatre workers function again

    Making National Theatre workers function again

    It is pathetic that workers of National Theatre and National Troupe of Nigeria now operate from under trees.  This ugly situation has been on for more years than can be tolerated due to the renovations at the Theatre.  Now that renovations are over and workers still loiter and operate from under trees, what is really the problem? Edozie Udeze takes a look at the situation in this report.

    The protest by the workers of the National Theatre and National Troupe of Nigeria which took place last week in Lagos was long in coming.  For those who are familiar with developments at the National Theatre, it is obvious that the workers have been pushed to the wall for far too long. For about four years now, the renovations at the Theatre have been going on.  The initial understanding before the rehabilitation commenced was that the workers would be asked to return to their offices as soon as the renovations were over.

    However, many years after, these workers are still like destitute.  They report for duty every day only to be hanging under trees and shrubs as if those that matter do not bother at all. Now the works at the Theatre, both inside and outside have been completed, yet these workers, both senior and junior workers are still left to loiter around the Theatre premises day in day out.  The question is: how do workers produce or even become active operating from under trees?  This is what triggered the protest which took place last week when the Unions to which Theatre workers belong converged to let the world see, feel and know about the agony, disgrace and dislocation they have been passing through in the past four years or so.

    The Unions are Radio, Television and Theatre Art Workers Union (RATTAWU) and Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Service, Technical and Recreation Employees (AUPCTRE) who were joined by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and all the Lagos based stations of Nigerian Radio Corporation, Nigerian Television Authority, in addition to all the parastatals, agencies and departments that constitute the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Creative Economy and Tourism as well as those in the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

    In attendance were representatives of the theatre and film sectors in Nigeria.  The atmosphere was tense. There was anger on the faces of many. As solidarity songs went on, many workers kept gloomy faces.  Most of them who spoke off record were afraid that the powers that be may end up appropriating the spaces inside the Theatre. This seems so because since last year when the works were completed and the Nigerian Labour Congress leadership confronted the management over the return to status quo, the management has since refused to give any positive responses or assurances.  It seems to the workers that a lugubrious situation is in the offing.  As perturbed as the workers have become, therefore, the fear of not returning back to continue to present, promote and preserve Nigeria’s numerous cultural heritages may be an utopian dream.  This fear is written on the faces of workers and they’re going about with it as they sit or walk around the Theatre every day.

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    As they sit daily in clusters and groups under the trees and sometimes in the scorching sun, it is clear that disillusionment has begun to set in.  The newly renovated Abeigi has suddenly become the abode of some workers. As they sit in groups staring at the imposing and inviting structures that is the National Theatre, they hiss, they groan, they gnash their teeth, wondering when they will return back home. The joys in their faces have long disappeared. Even the small cubicles provided as makeshift offices are choking. Some of the workers in the ranks of assistant directors, deputies or more, also find solace within this ugly and pathetic  under the tree development.

    It is indeed true to say that unless the needful is done now, the flavor of the Theatre will soon become a forlorn hope.  The gloomy appearances of workers need to be curtailed. No one ever works within the confines of depression and achieve a desirable result.  The situation within the premises of National Troupe is even worst. Ever since its workers have been moved to the abandoned artistes hostels, a place that is still dilapidated, not even fit for human habitation. The artistes’ hostels were abandoned for over decades, turning it to a place where rats, rodents, snakes and some other dangerous reptiles have since found solace.  Now, after making a few minor retouches here and there, the workers were moved into the place.  The idea was that the renovations of the main offices would not last too long.  Now, the workers are also groaning.

    The eyesore at the artistes’ hostels, the makeshift homes of the workers of National Troupe of Nigeria brings tears to the eyes of those who feel for others. In as much as the present management has tried to give a little life to the place, the environment is still far from being a place suitable for workers who are cultural ambassadors of Nigeria.

    All these and more are some of the psychological traumas that haunt workers all year round.  So, the Federal Government has to call those responsible to order.  The Theatre is not meant to be an elitist hub.  It is a place deliberately meant to cater for all the creative people, where theatre is produced and presented. 

    It is a place where culture is meant to live, where theatre has to breathe and prosper, ensuring that practitioners as well as those who ply their trade there are allowed to be. It is a place to bring theatre together to blossom, to promote all the issues that make Nigerian theatre prosper.  Theatre and culture cohabite at the National Theatre and that is why it is called the Apex Culture House of Nigeria. It is where stage theatre is alive, where everything culture is permitted to operate without let or hindrance.