NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Culture & Tourism

Ojo-Lanre calls for robust national tourism policy to grow sector

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By Joshua Olomu

Mr Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, has called for the formulation of a robust national tourism policy to adequately drive the sector for increased contribution to national economy.

He made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline at the just concluded annual National Tourism Transportation Summit in Abuja.

The 2024 summit, with the theme “Tourism Transportation Connectivity: Accelerating the Synergy for National Economic Development”, brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

According to Ojo-Lanre, as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economic mainstay from oil, its rich tourism potential is a veritable alternative, if properly harnessed.

He said the absence of workable legal framework in form of national tourism policy was a major drawback to the sector, and therefore urged the federal government to expedite action toward providing such a framework.

The DG said such a crucial document would serve as roadmap for stakeholders at all levels toward harnessing the vast potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry and align it with global standards and best practices.

“Nigeria must develop a solid tourism policy, and without a tourism policy, whatever we do will just be meeting in the dark.

“The first thing you have to do is have a tourism policy, and then you develop a workable, sustainable tourism development plan.

“This will bring all states on board, so, these are steps we must take to show that we are serious to develop our tourism.

“I know about Ekiti state, because our Governor is very passionate about tourism,” he said.

He added that a robust policy document would ensure sustainable tourism, community engagement, diversification of tourism products, create jobs and promote Nigeria’s rich culture.

Ojo-Lanre, who bagged the ‘Long Service in Nigeria Tourism Development and Promotion Award’ at the summit, faulted the recent decision of the federal government to subsume the ministry of tourism into that of arts and culture.

He said there was need for the federal government to rethink the scrapping of the ministry of tourism if the sector would witness speedy growth.

“We agitated for the creation of a stand-alone ministry for tourism, and I even approached the eight Senate.

“But while we were happy with its creation by the federal government, it was later scrapped,” he said.(NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Ipada Carnival begins amidst pomp, pageantry in Lagos

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By Taiye Olayemi

Diplomats across Africa and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry on Saturday converged on the La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort in Lagos State to declare the maiden edition of ‘Ipada Carnival’ open.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ipada Carnival is a cultural celebration honouring the return of people of African descent and lovers of the culture to their roots.

The carnival is holding from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8.

The nine-day carnival began in an electrifying atmosphere where the Brazilian Descendants donned in their colourful carnival attire performed to the excitement of revellers.

The carnival showcased the rich cultural heritage of Africans featuring diverse range of activities, including traditional music and dance performances, elaborate costumes, and mouth-watering local cuisines.

Revellers were treated to a dazzling display of colour and energy. The air was filled with the sound of drums and laughter, as participants and spectators alike immersed themselves in the joy and excitement of the occasion.

Speaking, Mr Wanle Akinboboye, Convener of Ipada Carnival and Chief Executive Officer of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, said the carnival was a form of enticement for Africans in the diaspora to retrace their roots.

Akinboboye said the essence of this was to enable them contribute significantly to the economic development of Africa.

“Today is all about the Ipada Carnival, the concept is all about bringing back people of African descent back to their roots.

“We have 32 million diasporans in the Caribbean, 66 million in the United States of America, 120 million in Brazil, about 9.6 million in Europe. We need to entice them back to come and add value to the entire continent of Africa.

“You know no country can develop without the diasporans. So, Ipada is basically presenting the entire continent of Africa in a basket. We are creating an African shopping mall. The idea is to enable the diasporans to visit all the countries in the continent.

“There are 55 African countries. So, we’re not only selling Nigeria, we’re just saying that the diasporans can come into the continent of Africa through Lagos, through AAbuja.x

“And we created for those that felt that they have left on slave ships, we’ve created for them what we call ‘slave ships to cruise ships” so that they can land here in Lekki.

“From Lekki they can go to our airport here in Lagos and then fly to any part of Africa they want to fly to. So, basically we’re putting the entire continent of Africa in one basket,” he said.

He said that a huge number of Africans in the diaspora had been able to retrace their steps already.

“This is just a celebration. This is the Ipada Carnival but we have the Ipada Initiative that happens on a daily basis.

“Over 40 African-American Mayors have been brought back, a platform has also been established to assist them to come to Africa, about 300 are coming next week, we have about 500 coming back in February and more,” he said.

Earlier, The Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, lauded the Ipada Carnival and initiative.

He said that the country looked forward to engaging the service of a DNA expert to help in identifying Rwandans in the diaspora.

“We find it important that Rwanda is present among other African countries here, and Rwanda as a pan-African country is opening its doors to all Africans to come back home.

“As you can see, we are displaying our coffee, tea, pepper, clothings and more. We want everyone to know that Rwanda is safe for business with hospitable individuals.

“We are second when it comes to ease of doing business.

Marinho Olayemi, President of the Brazilian Descendants Association in Lagos, relayed how the Brazilian descendants had contributed to the growth of Lagos state.

Olayemi urged all Africans in the diaspora to retrace their roots.

Also, Mrs Bolaji Mustapha, National President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), expressed excitement at the outcome of the carnival.

Mustapha said that for subsequent editions, the association would look into creating more products to attract more people in the diaspora.

“We are very happy to partner with La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort for this beautiful initiative.

“We are changing the narrative to being slave ships to cruise ship,” she said.

Mrs Uloma Egbuna, Managing Director of Tour Brokers International, described Ipada festival as a lofty initiative.

Mr Gbenga Sunday, a destination promoter, noted that the carnival would attract lots of fortune for Africa. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chidinma Agu/Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Arts: Nwosa showcases ‘Curtains of Memories’, seeks public awareness, appreciation

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By Folasade Adeniran

Renowned Nigerian-Irish artist, Ben Nwosa, has called for more awareness in the field of arts and its appreciation among Nigerians.

Nwosa spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday on the sidelines of his ongoing arts exhibition at the Didi Museum, in Lagos.

The arts exhibition is titled: ‘Curtains of Memories’.

The artist noted that the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria had put art collections only within the reach of the very rich.

He categorised the Nigerian audience reception to art and exhibition to include those who attend art exhibitions because they want to meet the artist or artists.

Also, are those who want to purchase art pieces of the during or after the exhibition in order to re-sell.

According to Nwosa, these may be private individuals, galleries or interior decorators.

“Some very rich individuals buy art pieces because their friends bought and do not want to be an exception or probably because they want to encourage the artist.

“The third category, I envisage, are the connoisseurs who buy art for esthetic reasons,” he added.

Nwosa noted that these prevailing characteristics were not the same in the western world, where artists were revered and artworks more valued.

He said that the exhibition was aimed at encouraging people to appreciate, love and promote art as well as policy makers to see abstract art, black and white, differently.

“This exhibition is not driven primarily by financial motivation but rather in opening the eyes of Nigerian creative sectors.

“My intention is to make my audience and connoisseurs of art enjoy the pieces without restraints.

“The more you look at the pieces, the more visual perception you have and consequently able to interpret the works yourself.

“I wanted to showcase to Nigerians how much I have been influenced by my sojourn abroad.

“Most of the art pieces are abstract and semi abstract works. I used lines, shapes, forms, colour, gestures marks to communicate an idea.

“Also, most of the art pieces are untitled deliberately,” he said.

Also speaking, Elizabeth Jibunoh, Co-Founder of Didi Museum, commended Nwosa.

She said that Nwosa’s work was a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and the remarkable things that could emerge when discipline and freedom were embraced.

“I invite you to experience this collection with an open mind and an appreciation for the profound interplay of light and shadow, form and space Nwosa has masterfully crafted.

“It is an honour to once again present his work here at Didi Museum, a fitting venue for an artist whose journey is both a celebration of the past and a bold step into the future,” Jibunoh said. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Culture & Tourism

Rivers emerges overall winner at 2024 Abuja Int’l Carnival

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By Joshua Olomu

Rivers troupe has emerged as the overall winner of the 2024 Abuja International Carnival competitive events while Borno and Yobe emerged as first and second runner-up.

Bauchi and Abia took the fourth and fifth positions, while the Best in Durbar event award went to Yobe, and Delta as the Best in Masquerade event award.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the carnival competition judges announced the results at the closing ceremony of the event held on Monday night at the Eagles Square.

The carnival, which was held from Nov.23 to Nov. 25, with the theme,” Carnival of Renewed Hope: a Pledge to My Country”, had participating bands from across different states in Nigeria.

It featured a range of activities, including floats and street shows, musical concerts, traditional food competition, boat regatta, Durbar, children’s Fiesta and art exhibitions.

The closing ceremony was a night of glitz and glamour in colourful and festive ambience, which characterises carnivals, as it featured indigenous fashion show and parade across the arena by participating teams.

Rivers topped the medal list with the Best Carnival Float, Best Carnival King, Best Carnival Queen, Best Performance, Best Carnival Costume and Best in Indigenous Nigerian Fashion Parade.

Other accolades won by Rivers include Best in Traditional Food Competition, Best in Boat Regatta Event, Best in Children Carnival and Best in Cultural Night Event.

Tomonialadieokuma Ishmael, Permanent Secretary, Rivers Ministry of Culture and Tourism, who spoke with NAN on the sideline, said the feat was a demonstration of how Rivers people love and promote their culture.

According to him, Rivers, acclaimed to be the best winner since inception of the Abuja carnival, always prepares and looks forward to the event.

“Abuja carnival without Rivers is not complete as we have always been on top of the chart since 2005 when the carnival started.

“We came first till 2011, and it was in 2012 that we did not come early to the carnival that we did not take the first position.

“From what you saw today during the boat regatta, for nine years River State has been coming first in it; from 2005 to 2013 the state has been on first position in the boat regatta.

“We came to this year’s edition as the state with the highest contingent; we came with over 600 people ,and it shows we are a top notch state with culture and tourism.

“Our governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is a culture and tourism loving governor, and without him we would not have come here to carry first,” he said.

Earlier in her remarks, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, said the carnival was in alignment with the Ministry’s goals of promoting cultural diversity and supporting the creative economy.

According to her, the carnival serves as a platform to remind the world of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and a springboard for national cohesion and acceptance.

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

“I urge all states to ensure full participation in the 2025 edition of the carnival because it is our own,” she said.

The minister said the Abuja International Carnival is a partnership innovation between the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy and Yankee Entertainment, a promoter of the Nigerian image through entertainment.

Kehinde Adegbite, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Yankee Entertainment, said the rebranded carnival was to showcase Nigerian cultural diversity and creativity to a global audience.

“I have been to so many places in the world, festivals and carnivals, they have the population, money, but they don’t have the culture, but we are in a country where our culture can strive.

“Abuja Carnival was created in 2005 by Olusegun Obasanjo with the sole aim of showcasing Nigerian talent and culture to the world and it ran until 2016 before it was paused.

“The carnival belongs to all of us, it is our pride, and no matter where you go in the world, you still carry a green passport which shows that you are a Nigerian,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

JOSH/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Culture & Tourism , Entertainment

‘I’ve made history,’ Chidinma Adetshina celebrates first runner-up finish at Miss Universe 

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By Joshua Olomu

Chidimma Adetshina, 22-year-old beauty queen who represented Nigeria at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, has expressed excitement after finishing as the first runner-up at the grand finale of the competition.

The grand finale of the 2024 Miss Universe held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, with Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, edging out 124 contestants from around the globe to win the crown.

However, the event witnessed an intriguing face-off between Nigeria and Denmark, as the two beauty queens stood poised to claim the crown, but Miss Denmark ultimately won the highly coveted crown.

The new Miss Universe has taken over from Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adetshina expressed delight on her first runner-up feat in a post-event interview video clip posted on the X page (formerly twitter) of the Miss Universe Nigeria organisation.

She said: “I’m so excited. I don’t have words to describe what I’m feeling right now, but I’m so proud of myself, and I just made history!”

This was followed by another post by the Miss Universe Nigeria organisation, eulogising her: “Beauty with Brains and Humility….Our Queen#Chidinma.”

She was also crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

As the highest ranked African Contestant of this year’s competition, this marks the continent’s highest placement in Miss Universe history.

NAN reports that Adetshina made history earlier this year by winning Miss Universe Nigeria after withdrawing from Miss South Africa pageant that was marred with controversies.

She was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father of Igbo descent, and a Mozambican mother who is accused of allegedly committing identity fraud in South Africa.

The Law student and model, who was raised in Cape Town, was a finalist in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant, but faced severe online harassment and bullying over her Nigerian roots.

Hash Social media attacks targeted her Nigerian heritage despite her being born in South Africa and meeting all competition requirements.

Adetshina eventually announced her withdrawal from the competition citing safety and the well-being of herself and that of her family members..(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Culture & Tourism

Tourism expert establishes museum to preserve Awori history

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By Taiye Olayemi

A tourism enthusiast and son to former Olota of Ota, in Ogun, Prince Adetunji Fadina, has established a museum for the preservation of Awori culture and historical legacy in the town.

Fadina, also a custodian of Awori culture, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday that the museum located in Ota, would be inaugurated in January 2025.

NAN reports that the Awori, a prominent subgroup of the Yoruba people, speak a distinct dialect of the Yoruba language.

They are known as the original inhabitants of Lagos State and parts of Ogun.

Fadina said the museum christened “Oba Timothy Oloyede Fadina Centre for Awori Art, Culture and History”, is meant to pay tribute to his late father’s legacies and other past occupiers of the Olota throne.

He maintained that the museum would serve as a veritable platform to educate visitors on the significance of the Awori’s contributions to Nigerian history.

According to him, it will foster cultural awareness and appreciation through interactive exhibitions and programmes, as well as provide a platform for community engagement and cultural exchange.

“The inspiration behind the Oba Timothy Oloyede Fadina Centre for Awori Art, Culture and History is anchored on a strategic vision to authentically tell our story, preserving and celebrating the uniqueness of the Awori heritage brand.

“Drawing from the rich experiences of cultural preservation efforts in South Africa and Gambia, the centre is designed to leave a lasting legacy.

“A legacy that will educate and immerse future generations in the values, history, and cultural pride of the Awori people.

“The centre stands as a lasting tribute to my father, Oba Timothy Oloyede Fadina, ensuring that the Awori heritage is celebrated and sustained.

“It is a deliberate investment in the cultural future of our people, built to resonate deeply and endure for generations to come,” he said.

Fadina noted that the museum would be opened to the public for a dry run in December, before its eventual opening in January 2025.

Speaking on the content of the museum, Fadina disclosed that the historical fact of the four divisions of the Awori kingdom would be on display.

He listed the four divisions to include ”Otun” , “Osi”, “Ijana” and “Oruba”.

“In our bid to promote our local cuisines like Omoyo, Dundu-cocoa and more, we have earmarked a local kitchen within the centre, where they can be prepared for tourists’ delight.” (NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Vivian Ihechu

Culture & Tourism

Partnership, collective efforts needed to eradicate violent extremism -GOC

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The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Farouk Mijinyawa, has stressed the need for partnership and collective efforts to eradicate violent extremism in the country.

Mijinyawa said this at the graduation ceremony of 32 participants of Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) on Countering Violent Extremism.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Countering Violent Extremism Course 5, 2024 which started on Oct. 26 ended on Nov.8 at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA) Lagos.

Participants from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, Guinea Bissau, Togo and Liberia took part in the two-week rigorous training.

Mijinyawa commended the seamless collaboration between MLAILPKC and the Government of Japan, through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which resulted to the approval and conduct of the course.

According to him, the strategic partnership between the Centre and the Government of Japan through the UNDP serves as beacon of international cooperation which needs to be sustained.

He quoted former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, as saying that the greatest weapon against extremism is collective action.

“This points to the fact that it is only through partnership and collective efforts that we can eradicate the menace of violent extremism in the world,” he said.

The GOC said that violent extremism had continued to threaten world peace and humanity in general, adding that all stakeholders must unite to counter it by addressing the root causes.

“These include support to education, community engagements and creating economic opportunities.

“The training will help to enhance capacity and equip potential peacekeepers with the requisite expertise to handle threats posed by violent extremism.

“It will also enable them to effectively perform their roles in a multidimensional peacekeeping mission,” he said

He expressed satisfaction with the caliber of erudite resource persons, facilitators and experts that were invited from both within and outside the country to make presentations during the course.

“We appreciate you for the knowledge you have imparted and for sharing from your wealth of experiences.

“I urge the graduands to apply the knowledge gained from this course in the discharge of their responsibilities in their various formations, units and organisations,” he said.

Mijinyawa commended the collaboration of the Government of Japan, and the UNDP with MLAILPKC which continued to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Africa and the world at large.

Mr Matthew Alao, Team Lead, Governance, Peace, and Security Unit, UNDP Nigeria, said that violent extremism was a complex, multifaceted problem that required equally nuanced and adaptable solutions.

“You will face challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt. However, be hopeful; be optimistic because our struggle is not the struggle of a day or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime,” he said.

Alao expressed confidence in the knowledge and skills the participants had acquired, saying that they were not just academic achievements, but the building blocks of resilient communities and sustainable peace.

“Your training equips you to be the architects of this justice; to build bridges where others see only divides, and to illuminate paths towards reconciliation in the darkest corners of conflict.

“Now, you stand ready to return to your respective countries, organisations, and communities as agents of positive change,” the UNDP representative said.

He urged the participants to always remember that countering violent extremism was not solely about security measures or law enforcement.

“It is about addressing root causes, fostering inclusive societies, and offering hope where despair once reigned.

“Your role extends beyond tactical responses; you are now architects of resilient communities and advocates for social justice,” he said.

Alao appreciated the Government of Japan, MLAILPKC, the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, and the UNDP for their support which had been instrumental in shaping future leaders.

One of the participants of the training, Lt.-Col. Thomas Nimele, from the Armed Forces of Liberia, said that the course broadened his knowledge regarding peacekeeping in violent extreme situations.

“The training also gave me insight into the drivers that cause violent extremism and how to use non kinetic measures to win the war.

“Countering violent extremism is a holistic approach involving both government institutions and societal institutions, using non kinetic approach to defeat the ideology of violent extremism,” Nimele said.

Also, Maj. Felix Adongo, from the Ghana Army, said that his take home would be to employ the use of more non kinetic measures in countering the extremist agenda rather than always resulting to force.

“It is important that we tackle this menace from this angle by identifying and getting to the root causes of the extremists ideas and agenda,” Adongo said.(NAN)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola/Kadiri Abdulrahman

Culture & Tourism

Ara set to commemorate 25th anniversary on stage, 50th birthday

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By Taiye Olayemi

The progenitor of female talking drummers in Africa, Aralola Olamuyiwa, popularly known as “Ara”, says plans have advanced to celebrate her 50th birthday and 25 years on stage, in January 2025.

Ara told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, that she began her career as a professional drummer in 1999, hence set to celebrate the milestones.

She noted that a legacy project, which entailed building “Ara Drum Heritage Centre”, would be unveiled during the double celebrations.

She explained that the centre would be dedicated to sustaining traditional drumming, fostering creative talent, and instilling a profound sense of cultural pride.

“My plan is to establish a world-class drum museum showcasing African drumming history and cultural significance.

“This is to provide training and educational programmes for drummers, focusing on traditional and contemporary techniques.

“It will also be a platform to host workshops, concerts, and cultural events celebrating drummings role in African culture.

“It is also meant to create a community hub for drummers, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts to develop partnerships with local and international organisations to promote cultural exchange.

“This legacy project is dear to my heart, and I will be unveiling more information on it soon.

“I remain grateful to God, my fans, friends, and family for the journey so far,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Vivian Ihechu

Culture & Tourism

Arts, culture veritable tools for inclusive economic growth – Minister

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By Philip Yatai

Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has described arts, culture and traditions of FCT residents as veritable tools for inclusive economic growth.

Mahmoud stated this at the close of the 11th Edition of the Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture (ASOFEST), in Abuja on Thursday.

The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Mrs Olubumi Olowookere, noted that FCT was blessed with rich and unique culture, customs and traditions.

She said that the 11th edition of the ASOFEST, with the theme, “Sustaining the Renewed Hope Agenda through Efficient Management of Cultural Resources”, seeks to build and promote culture as a creative economy.

Mahmoud stressed that arts and culture were critical tools in the quest to transform the nation’s economy to deliver sustained inclusive growth.

This, she said, would promote peace, prosperity and unity, thereby boosting food and national security.

She reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment to preserving and protecting the rich cultural heritage of indigenous people and residents of the territory

She said that through ASOFEST, the FCT Administration was not only preserving but also promoting and showcasing the FCT’s unique arts, culture and traditions to the world.

“The FCT Administration is poised to protect, preserve, promote and showcase our rich cultural heritage, diversity, uniqueness and traditions to the world.

“This, we are doing through cultural exchange and exhibition at our own annual ASOFEST.

“The festival has afforded us the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the people and residents of FCT.

“Even the people who settled and made FCT their home, we equally appreciate the dynamism of their different cultures,” she added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, had promised  to develop the territory’s arts, culture and tourism potential.

Wike said at the opening of the two-day event that the move would preserve, promote and showcase FCT’s cultural heritage to the world.

He said that President Bola Tinubu had given a matching order to the FCTA, to harness the tourism potential of the federal capital, with a view to contribute to the growth of the nation’s economy. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Culture & Tourism

Art X Lagos opens with tribute to late Herbert Wigwe

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By Taiye Olayemi

 

An international art fair, ART X Lagos, has opened with tribute to late Herbert Wigwe, former Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc and some other unsung pioneers across different fields.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme for this year’s fair is ‘Promised Lands’.

The exhibition had on display beautiful photos of the late banker with videos of iconic previous public presentations.

Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Founder of ART X Lagos, during a media preview of the exhibitions on Thursday, said no fewer than 10 specially curated galleries from cities like Lagos, Harare, Accra, and London, were featured.

According to her, the theme resonates deeply with our collective journey, reflecting on where we are and envisioning where we aspire to be.

Peterside-Schwebig noted that one of the galleries known as the Markmaker gallery exhibited photographs and achievements of some unsung pioneers who redefined what was possible for Africans in science, art and social activism.

According to her, the gallery also has photos, videos and documentaries on late Wigwe, celebrating his lofty contributions toward the growth of arts.

“Through their legacy, we are reminded that greatness stems from courage, collaboration, and the audacity to challenge the status quo. This exhibition was curated by Missla Libsekal, Fikayo Adebajo and Haily Grenet,” she said.

Peterside-Schwebig said the fair showcases a diverse mix of emerging and established artists from across Africa and its diaspora.

“ART X Lagos 2024 will take place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3, at the Federal Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos.

“The private collectors’ preview will be held Oct. 31, followed by the VIP Preview on Frday, Nov. 1. The fair will be open to the pubic on Saturday, Nov. 2nd and Sunday, Nov. 3rd, while virtual audiences can aso engage with the fair on Artsy.net.

“The fair will be paying tribute to late Herbert Wigwe, Former Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, for his enduring legacy in building the art industry.

“Other unsung heroes also acknowledged are: Oladunni Odoguwa, first woman to be a Juju band leader; Victoria Iruemi, first Nigerian woman to be a band leader; Dr Elizabeth Awoliyi who was undeterred by the gender gap in 1935, and many more,” she said.

According to Peterside-Schwebig, the fair has continued to push boundaries, fostering cross cultural dialogue.

She said this had been made possible through diverse selection of curated galleries, thought provoking exhibitions and special projects, dynamic live performances, and insightful discussions.

“This year, the fair will continue its commitment to highlighting African art, culture, and community, while fostering critical conversations on the social and political transformations shaping the continent.

“Against a backdrop of challenges being experienced in Nigeria, with political and socio-economic difficulties across Africa, this year’s theme will expore, “Promised Lands”.

“This is to explore places, real and imagined, that offer hope and a vision of greater freedom, prompting a critical examination of where Africa and its diaspora aspire to go,” she said.

“Peterside-Schwebig noted that since Art X debutant in 2016, the fair had showcased artists from over 70 countries, as the fair firmly estabished itself as the leading hub for African and diaspora creatives.”

She explained that there would be a crossroads session curated by by Papa Omotayo in collaboration with Haily Grenet, Fikayo Adebajo and Dike Anthony.

She said this space would invite meaningful engagement on pivotal societal questions as it reflect on Nigera’s current challenges, creating a collective tapestry of shared voices and hopes.

“Other major exhibitions include Marcellina Akpojotor’s textile art addressing sustainability and Williams Chechet’s Afrofuturist “Breaking Barriers,” both contributing to the fair’s theme of creativity driving social change.

“The Access ART X prize 2023 winners Julius Agbaje for Nigeria Award and Shabu Mwangi for Africa and Diaspora Award, will host solo exhibitions around the concept of “What May Come”.

“This is alongside a retrospective on previous winners of the prize, curated by Jumoke Sanwo.

“In collaboration with Afreximbank, ART X Lagos will also present Art Across Borders, an exhibition featuring six mid-career African and Caribbean artists who explore ancestral connections and future possibilities.

“ART X Talks will further enrich the fair with engaging discussions, including a conversation with filmmaker Andrew Dosunmu.

The 2024 galleries incude: Afriart Gallery (Uganda), Alexis Gallery (Nigeria), Galerie MAM (Cameroon), Gallery 1957 (Ghana), Affinity Art Gallery (Nigeria).

Others are Kanbi Projects (UK), kó (Nigeria), Nike Art Gallery (Nigeria), ODA Art Gallery (Nigeria) and Tiwani Contemporary (UK). (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Folasade Adeniran

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