The Nation Newspaper

Category: Arts & Life

  • IT expert Kunle Buraimoh honoured with indigenous award for ‘promoting education’

    IT expert Kunle Buraimoh honoured with indigenous award for ‘promoting education’

    Kunle Buraimoh, an IT expert and philanthropist, has been honoured with an Osogbo indigenous award for promoting education through his foundation. 

    Kunle Buraimoh is the founder and chairman of the Kunle Buraimoh (KB) Foundation, a platform dedicated to giving scholarship opportunities, writing materials, and encouraging digital literacy in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.

    Buraimoh was among the deserving indigenes honoured with the award on Saturday, November 23, by Osogbo sons and daughters.

    The ceremony was unmistakably colorful, with indigenes from various sectors and clans of Osogbo’s historic city in attendance. 

    The gathering was a reunion. The recipients of the prizes were chosen for their dexterity, humanitarian work, and contributions to the development of Osogbo.

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    Kunle Buraimoh was honored with the award in recognition of his usual generous gestures to the needy, particularly youths and children in public primary and secondary schools in Osogbo and other neighboring communities, such as scholarships, registering indigent students for JAMB, providing writing materials, and promoting digital literacy, among other things.

    While accepting the award, Buraimoh thanked all Osogbo indigenes at home and abroad, particularly the Royal Father, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Larooye II, the Ataoja of Osogbo, for his usual tireless efforts to bring all indigenes together for the town’s upliftment.

    Buraimoh, who thanked the executive and members of Osogbo Sons & Daughters for the honor, also praised members of the KB Foundation team, led by Mr. Fatai Adekunle, for their devotion and dedication to portraying the foundation’s operations at all times.

    While vowing to do more for the growth and progress of Osogbo and its environs, Buraimoh dedicated the award to the glory of Almighty God and his parents, High Chief Jimoh Buraimoh and Mama Adetola Buraimoh, for giving their all to reinforce his purpose in life.

  • Countdown to grand finale of Future Face 2024 begins

    Countdown to grand finale of Future Face 2024 begins

    Beth Model Management, Africa’s foremost modelling agency, has proudly announced the 15th anniversary edition of Future Face, the iconic model search competition dedicated to discovering Africa’s next top models.

    The Future Face 2024 grand finale will take place on Sunday, December 1st, 2024, at the prestigious Royal Box in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Future Face, which has been behind the discovery of top models like Mayowa Nicholas, Davidson Obennebo, Tobi Momoh, Victor Ndigwe, Chika Emmanuela and Fattou Kebbeh, will guide selected finalists through a week-long bootcamp before the highly-anticipated finale. The event will showcase African fashion through leading designers, attracting top industry leaders, celebrities, influencers, and media houses. Two winners will be chosen by a panel of esteemed judges to secure exclusive contracts with top international modeling agencies, launching their global fashion careers with a bang.

    Proudly sponsored by Mikano Motors, Regal Beauty Club, MAC Cosmetics, Laurent-Perrier Champagne, Sari Signature, Cube 65, and The Royal Box, this milestone event promises to be a dazzling celebration of African talent, fashion and music.

    More details about Media inquiries and sponsorship opportunities can be gotten via mail, info at futurefaceglobal dot com or via the website futurefaceglobal dot com.

    Updates about the upcoming event can be gotten on our Instagram handle, at futurefaceglobal.

  • Aliu shares life lessons in new book

    Aliu shares life lessons in new book

    As Dare Aliu marked his 40th birthday recently, he used the occasion to unveil his autobiography, Everything Will Be All Right, and launch the TDA Widows Foundation—two initiatives that signify both his journey and his future goals. In this interview with CHINYERE OKOROAFOR, TDA as he is fondly called shares his life, lessons learnt, and his vision for empowering others. 

    Congratulations on turning 40! How does it feel to reach this milestone, and what reflections come to mind as you look back on your journey so far?

    Thank you! Reaching this milestone age of 40 is truly exhilarating. It’s a moment that fills me with gratitude and a deep sense of reflection. Looking back on my journey, I am profoundly thankful to God Almighty for showering me with His unending grace through all the ups and downs. This journey hasn’t been a straight line—it’s been a winding road of challenges, breakthroughs, and countless lessons. But through it all, I’ve felt guided and supported in ways I can’t fully put into words.

    More than anything, I am grateful for the people who have walked this path with me. The unwavering support of my beautiful wife and kids has been my anchor. They are my daily reminder of what truly matters, and their love keeps me grounded and inspired to keep pushing forward. And, of course, the lifelong friendships and bonds I’ve forged over the years mean the world to me. These relationships have carried me through the hard times and celebrated with me in moments of triumph. Life is not a solo journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and companionship of my loved ones.

    What are some of the most significant lessons you’ve learnt in your life that you believe are shaping the next chapter?

    I’ve come to realize that there’s so much more to life than just the pursuit of money. This may sound surprising, especially coming from someone who grew up in abject poverty, where financial survival seemed like the most urgent and pressing goal. But as I’ve journeyed through life, I’ve come to understand that real wealth isn’t measured solely by financial success but by the values we uphold and the way we treat others. Every person, regardless of their background or economic status, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. It’s something that shaped my outlook—recognizing that true decency isn’t reserved for those who have, but also for those who have little.

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    Another valuable lesson that has reshaped my perspective is the importance of extending grace to others, especially to those whose lives are marked by hardships beyond their control. Growing up, I witnessed this firsthand—the quiet resilience of my mother, the unspoken struggles of those around me. Life has shown me that a single act of compassion can be transformative for someone facing adversity. It’s a principle I hold close, that when we can, we should be the source of relief or hope for someone else.

    I’ve also learned that not everyone in your life will cheer you on, even if they understand your dreams. That used to bother me until I realized that it’s okay. The people who are meant to walk alongside you in your journey will show up and offer their support in meaningful ways. It’s about recognizing that the path to achieving your dreams is not a popularity contest, but a personal mission. Understanding this has allowed me to focus on staying true to myself and trusting that those who genuinely believe in my vision will be there when it counts.”

    Your book is titled: Everything Will Be All Right. Can you share the inspiration behind the title and what message you hope to convey?

    The title of my book, Everything Will Be All Right, is deeply rooted in a powerful encounter I had with a young boy named Bosun. During a visit to a school in Yaba, where I was invited to speak about basic etiquette, empathy, and emotional intelligence, I noticed Bosun sitting quietly among his more vocal classmates. While others eagerly asked questions and engaged in discussions, he remained reserved, almost as if he was carrying a heavy burden that prevented him from participating.

    After the program, I felt compelled to reach out to him. When we spoke, I realized that Bosun reminded me of my own sixteen-year-old self—an introspective boy grappling with insecurities and the weight of expectations. It struck me that, like him, many young people might feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges and uncertain about their futures. That interaction ignited a spark in me, and I felt that this young lad represented so many others who needed reassurance.

    Through this book, I want to convey a message of hope and resilience. Life is unpredictable, filled with curveballs and unexpected twists, and it can often feel daunting. I aim to assure readers that despite the struggles they may face, everything will eventually turn out alright. I want them to understand that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times, but they must keep the hope alive. There are opportunities out there waiting for them, but it’s essential to be prepared to seize those moments when they arrive.

    My hope is that Everything Will Be All Right serves as a beacon of encouragement for anyone navigating difficult circumstances. I want it to inspire readers to believe in themselves, to understand that their current struggles do not define their futures, and to take proactive steps toward achieving their dreams. The message is simple yet profound: even in our darkest moments, there is light ahead, and with determination and faith, we can overcome.”

    What was the motivation behind writing this book at this specific point in your life?

    The motivation to write Everything Will Be All Right at this specific point in my life stemmed from a deep desire to document my journey and share the lessons I’ve learned along the way. As I approached my 40th birthday, I found myself reflecting on the many twists and turns that have shaped who I am today. I realized that sharing my story could serve as a source of encouragement for others, especially for young people like Bosun and my younger self, who may feel lost or overwhelmed by their circumstances.

    I want them to understand that even in moments of darkness and uncertainty, there is always light at the end of the tunnel, even if it’s not visible at first. Life has a way of unfolding in unexpected ways, and I want them to see that their current challenges don’t define their futures. I hope they recognize that life can be exciting and fulfilling, filled with opportunities waiting to be embraced.

    Moreover, while I may have achieved certain milestones, I know that my journey is far from complete. I view this book as a snapshot of my life thus far—a testament to the struggles, triumphs, and lessons that have shaped me. The story is only halfway told, and I believe that each chapter ahead will bring new adventures and challenges.

    By sharing my experiences, I aim to inspire others to keep dreaming, trying, speaking, and doing, no matter what obstacles they face. It’s a reminder that we are all on a journey, and it’s our resilience, hope, and determination that will lead us to a brighter future. I want readers to know that they are not alone in their struggles and that every step forward, no matter how small, is significant. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life and emerge stronger, more fulfilled, and ready to embrace whatever comes next.”

    What are some key themes or stories in the book that readers can look forward to?

    Readers can look forward to exploring several key themes in Everything Will Be All Right, each reflecting essential elements of the human experience that have shaped my life.

    One of the central themes is friendship. Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to cultivate meaningful relationships with individuals who have supported me during challenging times and celebrated my successes with me. These friendships have been a source of strength and inspiration, reminding me of the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who uplift us. I share stories that highlight how genuine connections can foster resilience and provide a network of support, especially when we face life’s inevitable ups and downs.

    Relationships also play a vital role in the narrative. I delve into the dynamics of my family relationships, the bonds forged through shared experiences, and the lessons learned from both the joys and challenges of these connections. I emphasize the significance of empathy and understanding in nurturing relationships, reminding readers that our interactions with others can profoundly impact our journeys.

    Another critical theme is integrity. In a world where shortcuts may seem tempting, I recount the importance of staying true to one’s values and principles. Upholding integrity has not only guided my decisions but has also shaped how I am perceived by others. I believe that true success is built on a foundation of honesty and ethical behavior, and I hope to inspire readers to prioritize integrity in their lives.

  • Authors pay tributes to Assoh

    Authors pay tributes to Assoh

    It was tributes galore for late Mike Assoh, the legal adviser of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) in Abuja last week when the association met for its annual convention. Assoh who died some few weeks ago was a dedicated member who lived and touched lives. EDOZIE UDEZE writes on the sentiments expressed by writers during the night of tributes.

    Part of what dominated the just concluded international convention of the Association of Nigerian Authors which held in Abuja last week was the night of tributes devoted to late Mike Assoh. Assoh was the legal adviser of the association who passed on about a month ago. He was just 47 years old. A compassionate and humble servant of the people, Assoh brought all his God given talents and resources to serve humanity. During the tribute which replaced the traditional night of plays and other forms of razzmatazz by ANA, authors, writers, scholars, all those who knew Assoh or worked closely with him had one or two memorable or remarkable things to say about him.

    There is no doubt that premonition or natural spiritual instincts must have told Assoh that he might not live long on this planet earth. Enamoured by this, he worked tirelessly not only to touch lives; he lived entirely for the good of people around him. He was not just generous and benevolent, he was free with spending and giving and giving without recourse to the consequences. He loved people; he worked for people. He was humble; he was also amenable to his community, to ANA and to the body of benchers where he served the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Benue State in the highest capacity.

    The tribute session opened with Professor Femi Osofisan, Chairman of Board of Trustees of ANA lamenting that the demise of Assoh came like a thunderbolt which hit ANA hard. “This is supposed to be a happy occasion. But we lost two prominent members in the persons of Mike Assoh and MS Dogara. Assoh was a nice fellow. But then ANA has indeed come of age. We need therefore to celebrate these strides we have made. See how people have defied insecurity, hunger, lack and all that to be here for the 43rd convention. We owe a lot to those who have worked effortlessly to make this writers’ village a reality. To them we owe a lot of gratitude. I thank you all both past and current crop of ANA leaders for ensuring that these structures are made a reality”, he said, pointing to the beautiful edifices-hotels, apartments, all, that adorn ANA landscapes at Mpape, Abuja.

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    It was more of a night of outpouring of emotions as people hinged their tributes on dirge in which Assoh was truly the central focus. The renditions were sorrowful particularly when some were done in his native Tiv language. The songs seeped into the embers of the night. Tears flowed freely, memories were refreshed and writers sat transfixed, listening, and shaking their heads as they remembered some fond memories with the legal adviser. Professor James Tsaaior talked about how he met Mike through Mike. “I met Mike through Mike”, he began, while everybody looked on in amazement. “Yes”, he went on, “Mike, the former secretary general of ANA was the one that introduced me to Mike Assoh, the late legal adviser. And meeting him was interesting because he was an interesting personality”, Tsaaior also from Benue State, stated.

    Dr. Dipo Akanbi, president of ANA paid glowing tribute to him. But he also recalled the history of ANA since 1981 and gave kudos to all who have been up and doing to steady the growth of the association. He recalled the achievements of ANA and noted pointedly that with the establishment of the Ken Saro-Wiwa international writers’ residency, Nigerian writers particularly the younger ones have a place to hibernate henceforth. “Life is full of bitter-sweet sentiments”, he cooed. “Now with 24 state chapters in attendance, I think ANA is on the threshold of total unification”.  Onwanyi Ulegede, a fellow lawyer and chairperson of ANA Benue, heaped encomiums on Assoh. She described him as someone who lived for others. “Always compassionate and eager to help others, Mike was a leader”, she said with a tremulous voice. Obviously shaken by this sudden loss, Ulegede went on from stage to stage reminisces of who Assoh was and what other remarkable deeds of his to keep ANA on the threshold of greatness.

    “He was very dedicated, humble, selfless and unassuming in his dealings with others”, Ulegede said, reflecting deeply. In other words, he was one of the foremost pillars of ANA in Benue State and beyond. Tributes also poured in from Professor Akachi Ezeigbo, Bosun Taofeek, chairman of ANA Lagos, Akan Essien, chairman of ANA Akwa Ibom State, Igba Ogbole, broadcaster and a member of ANA Benue State. Others like Daggar Tolar and more paid tributes as a solemn music played in the background. A vote of thanks was said by the secretary general of ANA Dame Joan Oji whose voice travelled far and reverberated well into the night. It was indeed a night befitting of someone who came prepared to serve his people with sincerity and honesty.

  • Gbadamosi’s artworks tease with colours

    Gbadamosi’s artworks tease with colours

    Rasheed Gbadamosi is a young Nigerian artist based in England. Shortly before the Covid lockdown, he discovered that he could pick interest in Internet generated animated art objects and images. He went for it and today he has exhibited in some of the most renowned art galleries across the world. Edozie Udeze takes a look at some of his works, shows and what his art pieces have come to represent in the visual art world and beyond.

    Rasheed Gbadamosi is a young artist with beautiful ideas and ever bubbling to hit the limelight. Ever since he discovered that he has the talent to express himself via visual arts and other forms of animated experiments, Gbadamosi has never relented to prove his mettle. His propensity to draw and to resort to visual as a way of expressing art became more accelerated shortly before the Covid lockdown. Part of the zeal to use that means to reach out to the world was accentuated by solitude.

    It has been noted overtime, that most great creative people are at their best during the time of seclusion or solitude. This also happened in his case, hence he was able to produce lots and lots of great works that later formed parts of the works he has exhibited in different parts of the world. Consequently, as at today, Gbadamosi has come to represent one of the most resourceful, resilient and consistent young artists whose love for animated artistic expressions infused with variety of colours are legendary.

    In his own statement concerning how it all began for him, he said “During the Covid lockdown, I decided to pick up a new skill. I therefore started learning 3D through free videos available to me on the internet. Since I began this expression, as it were, I have successfully gone on to exhibit in different locations of the world as part of several group exhibitions which took place across continent”. Now fully established as an artist, it is easier for critics to look at his numerous art pieces and say yes Gbadamosi has indeed proved his worth. For instance, in the artwork aptly titled awakening (animation) which was part of a curated group show at the notable Art Basel in Miami, the United States of America in 2021, the artist in him came out fully to the bloom.

    An exhibition done in partnership with FTX, one of the best promoters of artworks in Miami, awakening was said to have become cynosure of all eyes.  The animation in the visual quickly aroused the interest of patrons, art lovers and collectors who soon fell for it. Indeed Gbadamosi usage of colours is the first point of attraction in all his works. Interestingly his colour combinations electrify and resonate. This was why he came out of that experience bristling with renewed impetus to do more. And so for him the expressions and the embellishment helped him to deviate to other mediums and forms.

    So in 2022, he was again involved in another group show. This time, it was in New York, United States of America where the crowd of visitors feasted mostly on his works. The most amazing of them all was bloom (animation) produced mainly to tease the sensibilities of man. This time, that remarkable exhibition was done in conjunction with Coinbase and Lethabo Huma based in New York City, USA. This notable exhibition further spelt out the inherent qualities of Gbadamosi who can be described as a self-taught expressionistic and expressive artist. In other words, his works define life; they show agony and tears and sorrows and joys.

    Gbadamosi likes dynamism in his experiments. He loves colours. He rummages in bright, expressive and verbose colours that juxtapose to create attractions that remain indelible. Bloom therefore represents all that, as he throws more light on the phrase that animation and animated objects bring life back to reality. The realities of human nature are well represented in his works. Gbadamosi is sensible enough to articulate objects and figures and images and the colours that suit them. He embellishes where necessary and puts life and beauty to every art pieces he brings to fruition.

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    What all these show is that there is no way his art works cannot command the eyes to appreciate them. Even in the midst of so many other works, his female figures come out bold with enough teasers for appeal. Even though the works are internet generated the fusion of nature, African variables, calabashes, kola nuts and other beautiful elemental natures give his works the best forte ever. There is sometimes some twist of colours; colours that evoke the spirits and give life to an objects. In more ways than one, his artistic statements display high level of uniqueness.

    Take for instance his outing in London, United Kingdom in 2022. Themed Google Black History Month, the artwork titled Mother Nature specifically depicted the level of seriousness which Gbadamosi has come to signify. A curated group exhibition, this shows how rich a Black person is in her epitome of beauty showing that where nature and beauty meet, art speaks, attracts. Free application of deep colours by the artist helped also to make his completely impressionistic. It is therefore safe to term Gbadamosi as a colourist artist.

    Beyond the London show of 2022, he also had another curated group exhibition in Lisbon, Portugal titled Façade.  This was in 2022. Held at a beautiful Mona Gallery, the idea was to give more attention to façade of different hue. Facade is explicit in colour combinations. Gbadamosi who was effusive about his shows often says, “My shows have been quite successful. I do artworks that cut across genres in the area of animation. Giving them deep meanings make me happy”. The variety of colours help the works to come out better.

    In all spheres, it has been a successful artistic journey for Gbadamosi. The animated pieces have been brought fully to the fore through his many dynamic experiments. So even though he has shown how resilient he is as an artist, he still has more areas to cover in the visual art world. Other mediums of expressions are open to him to zero in his attention. Yet that has not in any way removed the fact that he has come a long way, being able to showcase in some of the best galleries in the world and in company of some of the best visual artists ever.

  • Saro-Wiwa Writers’ Residency debuts in Abuja

    Saro-Wiwa Writers’ Residency debuts in Abuja

    At last, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has fulfilled its promise to honour late Ken Saro-Wiwa. This time, it has established Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency located within the premises of Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape, Abuja. Edozie Udeze writes on the essence of this project and what it means to writers within and outside Nigeria.

    For many years, Nigerian artists, mostly writers were praying and working and hoping to have a writers’ residency of international reckoning. Part of the reason for this wish was to enable both established and budding writers have a conducive environment to retire to and be able to produce remarkable and outstanding pieces of art. It is known all over the world that writers are usually at their best when they are in seclusion. This is why solitude and isolation have come to be naturally associated with creative people generally.

    Now, in Abuja, where the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has its headquarters, a new lease of hope has been duly put in place essentially to help writers improve their crafts. As part of the programmes for the just ended 43rd international convention of ANA in Abuja, a new writers’ residency properly termed Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency was declared open for public use. Like the president of ANA Dr. Usman Dipo Akanbi explained in an interview, the idea of the residency in the name of Saro-Wiwa is to adequately situate his place in the annals of creativity in Nigeria. Apart from being a former president of ANA who played his role to the best of his ability, he was equally one of the founding fathers of the association in 1981.

    Saro –Wiwa was a creative writer in all genres of literature. He was a TV producer as well as a script writer. He was a gifted creative person who gave his all to the nurturing of not just people but the promotion of all that mattered to literature. Indeed, he lived for literature in all sense of the world. As one of the foremost literary personalities in Nigeria, the leadershiap of ANA in consonance with the board of trustees deemed it expedient to accord him a befitting place of honour inside the premises of ANA at Mpape in Abuja.

    The residency has all the trappings of modernity with all the comforts one can have in a residential home. A two storey building with 6 flats of 2bedroom apartments, the specious spaces in the flats are conducive for proper hibernation. The kitchens are well fitted for convenience. The rooms are fully air conditioned and the beds are cozy, large and solid enough to make relaxation, reading and so on more comfortable. Situated within the ambience of Mamman Vatsa writers’ village, but a bit away from the hub of ANA apartments and hotels, it is just to give writers enough space while in residency. The building, overlooking the hills and valleys for which Mpape is noted, it also beckons with beauty, allure and amazement. Its attraction remains one of its main source of appeal.

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    As you enter the gates of ANA apartments, you are first welcomed by the imposing stature of the residency. Then you see the big signpost-Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency. It is really of international standards befitting a big body like ANA. The building is in a class of its own. You are further amused by the awesome nature of the interior once you are inside. The settees are huge and comfortable and are the latest there can be. There is sizable dining table in each of the apartments. It serves as a reading and writing table so suitably designed to serve dual purposes.

    It is hoped that before long, writers would have begun to apply for the residency. But Akanbi cautioned that it is only meant for younger writers. Whatever that means, it remains to be seen how many young writers can fully utilize and appreciate the whole essence of the residency. However it is, it is still pertinent to seek for grants. Grants can come from governments or private individuals who love the work of creativity. It is only through giving of grants that the centre can prosper more and then live up to its expectations. No writers’ residency stands on its own. They need powerful sources of funds anchored around consistent grants.

    ANA has to do more. It has to go all out to seek for grants for the maintenance of the place and for writers to fit within the creative economy. As that goes on, state governments and charitable individuals, can take a cue from the precedence set by ANA to establish more of such residencies in different locations in Nigeria. Creativity drives a nation hence this call is urgent and imperative.

  • Culture meets arts at Griots and Bards on November 28

    Culture meets arts at Griots and Bards on November 28

     Griots and Bards, a monthly arts, culture and social conversation event, will hold its second edition after a four year hiatus, on Thursday, 28th of November, 2024. 

    The event will be held at RapJoint, an urban cultural centre for music, books and fine dining in the heart of Ikoyi. 

    Over the years, the monthly event has been curated by ADEBOLA Afolabi (REZAfolabi) to stimulate conversations around culture, social and other topical issues, laced with thrilling performances. 

    In a statement made available to journalists, REZAfolabi noted that ‘my team and I have resolved to keep the art and culture event going because of its artistic verve, its communal and  therapeutic engagements. With a strategic collaboration with our culture partner, Rapjoint, we have found a reliable and safe space to enrich the minds and elevate culture. The November edition is a testament to our relentless resolve to continue to extend literature, culture and free speech beyond the four walls of silence. ”  

    The October edition of the event was the relaunch edition. It brought together art enthusiasts and upwardly mobile Nigerians who were delighted to have a hotspot to meet kindred spirits and to escape from the chaos of modern existence to the embrace of music, poetry and robust intellectual discussions.  

    RezAfolabi stated that the community – which existed despite the dearth of its monthly meetup – was indeed a necessary force in this clime where the quest for greener pastures is making people have less proximity to their families and friends. 

    He further noted that community members who had experienced the intimate setting and depth of ideas and engagement contributed to the revival of the monthly meetup – with an opportunity to entertain a live stream for community members in the diaspora. 

    “Many of those who have been a part of the GAB community in the past have advocated nonstop for us to come back to convening on the last Thursday of every month. 

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    At RapJoint, the GAB guests sat huddled together on mats and beanbags, creating a village square ambience, cut off from the chaos of the city.  Music performances were by Tosin Music, poetry and music by Ruth Mahogany, Habib Ajijola, among others. 

    The theme of the day, “To Return Home” elicited soul stirring conversation about what home really meant to each person. 

    Veteran poet, Sage Hassan, who was also present at the event, summarized his perspective and others’ tagging “home” as a something linked to individual purpose.

    Commenting on the choice of venue, GAB Convener, Afolabi also extolled Rap Joint Limited for their commitment to the cause of building communities that align with their own purpose. “We are pleased to welcome Rap Joint as a partner in the GAB journey. It was borne out of shared passion about building for the culture. We also have other partners including ModZero Media, Luminous Limited, Influent, among others.”

    REZAfolabi disclosed that in September, Griots and Bards curated a meet up with its partners and a select group of art lovers to reintroduce the  event, unbundle its core philosophy and values. 

    After the event, guests networked, while enjoying the tasty treats from Rap Joint’s menu.

  • AYKO Symposium explores creativity as catalyst for economic growth

    AYKO Symposium explores creativity as catalyst for economic growth

    The AYKO Symposium, a groundbreaking event, explored how creativity can drive economic growth across Nigeria and the African continent last Thursday, November 14, in Lagos.

    Held under the theme “Creative Minds, Business Solutions,” the symposium showcased the dynamic intersection of business innovation and the creative industry.

    Speakers and panellists included Omoyemi Akerele, Founder of Lagos Fashion Week, Emma Collings, Head of Marketing at a UK FTSE100 Company, Ayoola Gbolahan, Acclaimed Nigerian Artist, Kola Oshalusi, CEO of Insigna Media, and Vanessa Azar, Regional Area Manager, Fenty Beauty Sub-Sahara.

    Each speaker shared transformative insights on how Africa’s creative sector can unlock new pathways for investment, job creation, and GDP growth.  The event also highlighted opportunities for collaboration between creatives and business leaders.

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    The workshops and panel discussions were designed to equip attendees with practical tools to achieve meaningful results in their businesses. Participants gained valuable insights on leveraging digital marketing, fostering impactful leadership, and developing scalable solutions to address Africa’s distinct challenges.

    Far from being just a symposium, the event signified a turning point. Delegates left inspired and well-equipped with insights and partnerships to spark innovation in their fields.  Co-founders Ayoola Bakare and Koya Onagoruwa stated, “Our mission is to demonstrate that creativity isn’t just about artistry—it’s a solution to some of the continent’s biggest economic challenges.”

    AYKO’s commitment extends beyond the symposium, with plans to grow the agency internationally over the next 12 months with a continued focus on empowering talented creatives.

  • Global beauty industry convenes in Lagos for Africa’s largest trade show

    Global beauty industry convenes in Lagos for Africa’s largest trade show

    Beauty West Africa, the continent’s largest and most popular trade show for the beauty, cosmetics and hair industry, opens on Tuesday, 26th November.

    With more than 300+ exhibitors from around the world, a free-to-attend conference, seminars, demonstrations and hundreds of product launches, visitor numbers are expected to surpass 5,500 over the three days of the event taking place at the Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Large exhibitor delegations mean that there will be country pavilions for China, Turkey, Pakistan, Korea, Egypt and Malaysia, in addition to a strong presence from India, Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and South America among others. There will also be a spotlight on Nigeria and West Africa’s own beauty SMEs.

    Beauty West Africa is organised by BtoB Events. Group Exhibition Manager Ken Baber commented: “With Nigeria’s beauty and personal care market currently worth an estimated ₦16.3 trillion ($9.71 billion* annually), Beauty West Africa is the must-attend annual event for anyone who works in the industry.

    “As Beauty West Africa has grown since its launch in 2018, the show’s reputation for being the key opportunity to build business relationships and find new trading partners is well known and highly regarded in Nigeria, West Africa and beyond.

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    “We are delighted to be able to provide the showcase for local and international beauty products, with hundreds of manufacturers and distributers representing thousands of brands. We know how excited our visitors, whether retailers or beauty or hair professionals, are at being able to see and have a hands-on experience with the many products making their African debut at our show.

    Just some of our event speakers include broadcast media professional Lamide Akintobi, Bolanle Tyson who is Head of SME Products at Sterling Bank, Lilian Arigbodi, the Founder & MD of Lilian Collins Ltd, and Vanessa Azar, Beauty Executive at Azar Limited. Topics will include accessing funding for beauty SMEs, cosmetics and skin tone, and trends and opportunities in the hair and beauty sectors.

    “Another innovation is the series of workshops on the third day of the show. International hairstylists from Wahl and Lush Hair will be giving live demonstrations to provide hairdressers, barbers and customers with the fundamental support and quality of training required to succeed in the industry,” said Mr Baber.

    The Conference and workshop programme has been developed with the industry expertise of Ezinne Alfa, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Beauty In Lagos who has been working alongside BtoB Events.

    “Beauty West Africa has consistently provided an unparalleled platform for the African beauty industry to connect, innovate, and grow.” said Ms Alfa. “Discussions at last year’s conference directly contributed to the formation of the NTCBCWS. This demonstrates the real impact of the conversations and collaborations that take place here.”

  • Artmosphere relaunches, shines spotlight on arts and culture

    Artmosphere relaunches, shines spotlight on arts and culture

    Artmosphere, the eclectic platform for arts, culture, and social conversation projects is thrilled to announce its relaunch after a six year hiatus.

    The culture project has fully moved its engagements with writers, poets, philosophers, artists and artistes to Lagos from Ibadan. 

    The curators will be holding the event at the Aramide Arts hub in Surulere on Sunday, 24th of November, 2024 in Surulere. 

    The event also coincides with the founder’s birthday. 

    With the theme, Rediscovery, the curators of Artmosphere have invited a creme of writers, creatives and corporate professionals, friends, culture activists  and family members to savour a blend of artistic and cultural performance, wine and dine, while engaging and  connecting with one another in a safe safe. 

    The relaunch of Artmosphere will also open up space for deep collaboration with both international and local artists while also engaging an exposed and robustly upwardly mobile community every month. 

    The Aramide Arts hub, a space owned by the Aramide Consortium in Surulere will leverage it’s location, as a hotspot of Nigeria’s entertainment, sports, tourism and arts to curate unique, valuable and memorable events, while also serving as a platform for established and emerging creatives.  

    Artmosphere will feature a dynamic lineup of artists and artistes, including live performances, interactive art displays, and an exclusive birthday tribute to the founder of Artmosphere, Femi Morgan,  who has long been a driving force behind the initiative. 

    Since 2011, Artmosphere Nigeria has hosted at least 100 artists and artistes including Niyi Osundare, Tanure Ojaide, Jumoke Verissimo, Burna Boy, Beautiful Nubia, Ade Bantu, Kent Oxygen, Victor Ehikhamenor, Abubakar Sidi, Iquo Diana Abasi, Tunde Adegbola, Chuma Nwokolo, Emmanuel Iduma, Romeo Oriogun, Olubunmi Familoni, Ahmed Maiwada and others. 

    The project took a break in 2018, while providing curatorial support for festivals and art projects between 2019 and 2023 and has returned in 2024. The events catered to various demographics and served as a platform to engage, educate and broaden ideas while growing a rich culture community. 

    Speaking for the projects, Co-founder of the Aramide Arts hub, Babatunde Odubanwo said: “We are glad to have artmosphere here at the hub. Having examined their past activities including readings, poetry performances, workshops, short theatre, music and social conversations, we found it worthy of our strategically located space and technical partnership. The relaunch is the beginning of a lot of things planned for the year 2025.”

    For the Artmosphere team, Brenda Nwafor said: “The art and culture space provides for freedom of expression and humanising the landscape. With our approach at Artmosphere, we are able to curate experiences, memory and community within the chaos of the landscape. 

    “It is therapeutic for both artists and audience. With the collaboration of international and local artists, institutions, partners and sponsors, we hope to keep it alive.”