By Folasade Adeniran

The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, says the ministry is engaging with the international arts industry for collaboration toward fostering partnerships and attracting inward investment.

Musawa said this in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, on Thursday.

The minister said this aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s economic diversification strategy, aiming to enhance the global recognition of Nigeria’s creative arts sector.

According to the minister, the month of February has seen unprecedented levels of recognition on the global stage for Nigeria’s creative arts.

“On Feb. 3, four Nigerian artistes – Burna Boy, ASAKE, Davido and Ayra Star – were nominated at the Grammys, the international music industry’s most prestigious awards event.

“Last Sunday, the NFL Super Bowl featured an inspiring commercial titled, “Everyone Has a Role to Play”, directed by Nigerian photographer and filmmaker Andrew Dosunmu.

“The TV advertisement was rapturously received by viewers all over the world.

“This weekend, the focus shifts to the animation sector. Renowned illustrator and director, Shofela Coker, has been nominated on three categories at the industry-leading Annie Awards in Los Angeles.

“This is the first time that a Nigerian has been nominated, and Coker is the first African to receive three nominations.”

Musawa said during her recent trip to Los Angeles for the Grammys, she met with leading industry figures to explore ways in which Nigeria could build greater pathways for young talent to reach their global potential and improve opportunities at home.

According to her, the ministry’s strategy is reflective of the fact that the nation’s burgeoning arts scene is gaining in popularity the world over, with music, film, fashion and visual arts at the vanguard of an increasingly globalised sector.

“African art and culture is surging in popularity, and Nigeria is riding the crest of a wave with its unique art forms, which the whole world is truly embracing.

“Our artistic community forms an integral part of our cultural economy, which we are aiming to significantly expand in the coming years,” she said.

Musawa said this was part of the nation’s drive to attract investment and facilitate greater opportunities for Nigeria’s creative classes. (NAN)

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

By Aderogba George

The Jet Age Nation Builders Africa Union Simulation, an African Caribbean and Pacific institution, has hinted plans to host a global conference in Nigeria to showcase the continent’s potential and counteract negative perceptions.

Mr Young Piero, the Africa Coordinator, in a news conference revealed that the event is scheduled from April 22 to April 24 at the Abuja International Conference Centre.

Piero emphasised the group’s commitment to building nations in line with the Africa Union Agenda 2063, addressing areas such as investment, technology, economy, energy, power, health, security, tourism, and fashion.

“We invite our African brothers and the Black community in America to join us in building an Africa of common interest. It’s time to debunk the negative stereotypes and address key issues with African solutions,” he stated.

The conference aims to discuss business policies in Africa and has previously been held in Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Mauritius, with future plans for South Africa, Gambia, and Canada.

Queen Temitope Ogunwusi, CEO of Hope Alive Initiative and wife of the Ooni of Ife, emphasised the power of unity among Africans.

She urged support for the programme and encouraged active participation.

Alhaji Yusuf-Sheriff Modu, Convener of National Inclusive in Governance Organisation, highlighted the need to showcase the positive aspects of Nigeria and Africa, countering foreign perceptions.

Mrs Sonia Agu, Convener and ECOWAS Youth and Women Ambassador, encouraged African youth to take initiative, emphasising that the future starts now.

Dr Marrix-King Agwu, CEO of Good Cause Circle, stressed the importance of African unity and collaboration for greatness. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Deji Abdulwahab

By Joshua   Olomu

The  historical  ‘ Itakpo Festival’, popularly known as ‘Feast of Passover’, of Ososo community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, is set to hold after seven years after the last edition.

A member of the community age-group cultural fiesta, Mr Ajamah Afemikhe, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the septennial event was slated for Feb. 12.

According to him, the festival acclaimed to be one of the major drivers of tourists to the state, expected participants from within the country and from the diaspora.

“During the February 2024 edition of this festival, the flood gate to the hospitality and tourism potentials of Ososo people are to be flung open for the view and relish of over 500,000 expected visitors.

“The theme of the event is ‘Osunomogwo’, which is chosen to reflect the time-tested bond and unity of the three celebrating kindred comprising of Ubereni, Ukporikpo, and Ugbedu in Okhe quarters of Ososo.

“Itakpo fesitival is patriarchal age-grade initiation, a moment of graduation of boyhood to manhood, it is an elevation to the elder’s assembly in the society.

“It marks the end of the youthful milestone and years of service, labour, and protection of the community and is also the gateway to joining the critical decision-making body of the community,” he said.

According to Afemikhe, Itakpo, also known as ‘Feast of Passover’, also celebrates the historical migration of the people of Ososo from “Ogbe”, a quarter in the ancient Benin Kingdom to its present settlement.

He said the migration of their ancestors took several years as they stayed in many locations before the final settlement at their present location called Ososo.

“As a way of remembrance and to keeping to the promise of our forefathers, celebrants visit various sites and locations in the migration routes to Ososo.”

“These sites and locations are the epicenters of activities during the Itakpo festival, the closest modern-day depiction of the Biblical Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and their grand entry to the promised land.

“The festival did not just remind us of our travails, the tortuous routs to our present location, and the sacrifices of our heroes past, it reenacts our migration story and experiences.

“The Festival is an epitome of history reminding us of our existence, resilience, victories, courage, and pride, which is the reason erroneous stories written in ink cannot erase our rich history.

“The people of Ososo did not come to this present day location by chance but by sheer dignity which has been a sacred endowment by God and our ancestors,” he said.

Afemikhe explained that the festival was usually flagged off with sensitisation visits with drumming and dancing by families of participating age groups and collection of kola nuts from every member of the celebrating group.

He added that social activities were also lined up to making the 2024 edition of the festival  unique and memorable, including  various cultural displays.

This, he said, included cladding of traditional costumes, regalia and fantastic hair-styles adorned by the wives and families of the celebrants.

He added that the septennial festival would also feature musical concerts and the popular ‘Face of Itakpo Beauty Pageant’, among other  and  side attractions.(NAN) (nannews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Olaide Ayinde

Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State says his administration has concluded plans to rehabilitate the tomb complex of late Prime Minister of Nigeria, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.

Mohammed stated this at the annual remembrance day of the late prime minister on Tuesday at the tomb in Bauchi.

He called on the younger generation to imbibe the virtues and legacies of the late prime minister.

The governor, represented by the Commissioner, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Mr Abdul Hassan, described Tafawa Balewa as a Pan-Africanist and patriotic Nigerian who struggled for Nigeria’s self-determination.

He said that his administration had made an adequate provision in the 2024 budget to give the edifice a face lift, and to provide books and modern facilities to upgrade the resource centre to a world class standard.

Mohammed, however, urged the Federal Government to come up with an appropriate national recognition for the late prime minister.

Also speaking, a member representing Madara/Chinade in the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Mr Nasiru Ala, said that he would initiate and ensure that a day to remember the late prime minister was adopted.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 annual remembrance day and prayer for the

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Adeleye Ajayi

Have you ever noticed how gold pops up everywhere in our stories and movies? It’s like this shiny beacon that grabs everyone’s attention, whether it’s a pirate’s treasure in a novel or a heist in a Hollywood blockbuster. But here’s the thing: the way gold is portrayed in literature and film doesn’t just make for great entertainment; it also shapes how people think about gold in the real world, especially when it comes to trading. So, if you’re curious about how gold trading works, understanding its cultural depictions can be quite enlightening.

Let’s start with literature. From ancient myths to modern novels, gold has always been a symbol of wealth, power, and often, greed. Think about classics like King Midas where his touch turns everything to gold, or the pursuit of the golden fleece in ‘Jason and the Argonauts.’ These stories aren’t just old tales; they embed the idea that gold is the ultimate prize. Fast forward to more contemporary literature, and you still see gold playing a central role, often as the object of quests and conflicts. This continuous depiction reinforces the perception of gold as a valuable and sought-after commodity.

Now, switch over to the silver screen, and it’s a similar story. Movies have a way of glamorizing gold, making it the center of dramatic heists or adventurous quests. Whether it’s the iconic scenes of gold bars in ‘The Italian Job’ or the elusive treasure in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ film often portrays gold as something worth taking risks for. This portrayal can influence how people view gold trading in real life – as a potentially exciting and lucrative endeavor.

So, how does this affect perceptions of how gold trading works? For one, these cultural depictions can create a sense of allure and mystique around gold. People grow up with these stories and movies, and it can shape their attitudes towards gold as an investment. They might see gold trading as a path to wealth and adventure, mirroring the narratives they’ve seen in fiction.

But there’s another side to this coin. While literature and film can glamorize gold trading, they can also highlight the risks and dangers associated with the pursuit of wealth. Stories where the pursuit of gold leads to downfall or moral lessons about greed can also influence perceptions. They serve as a reminder that gold trading, like any form of investment, comes with its risks and ethical considerations.

For those learning how gold trading works, understanding these cultural influences is important. It’s not just about market analysis and economic indicators; it’s also about being aware of the psychological and cultural factors that can influence trading behavior. The allure of gold, as depicted in stories and movies, can lead to over-enthusiasm or unrealistic expectations in trading.

However, remember that real-world gold trading is not a Hollywood movie or a mythical tale. It requires a solid understanding of market trends, economic factors, and a good dose of realism. Unlike the quests and adventures in stories, trading involves analysis, strategy, and often, a cautious approach. It’s about balancing the romanticized perceptions with the practicalities of the market.

So, what’s the takeaway? The cultural depictions of gold in literature and film play a significant role in shaping perceptions of gold trading. They contribute to the mystique and allure of gold as a commodity but can also provide cautionary tales about greed and risk. For anyone interested in how gold trading works, it’s beneficial to recognize these influences and separate the myths and glamor from the realities of the trading world.

In conclusion, while gold’s portrayal in culture might spark initial interest in trading, successful trading relies on a deeper understanding of the market. It’s about blending the excitement and allure that comes from our cultural narratives with practical knowledge and strategic thinking. So, as you delve into the world of gold trading, keep in mind the lessons from these tales and movies, but always stay grounded in the realities of the market.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) has called on Africans to ensure the exploration of the continent’s arts and cultural potential for improved economic growth.

The CBAAC’s Director-General, Chief Oluwabunmi Amao, made the call during the centre’s annual international conference , with theme, “Arts, Culture and the Development of African Creative Economy,” held on Thursday in Lagos.

Amao said that the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Document recognises arts, culture and creative economy as one of the major areas that could foster rapid economic development for any nation desirous of eradicating poverty.

She said that with the consciousness that Africa had large arrays of unexplored rich cultural resources which were under-utilised, the continent must take conscious efforts to further explore the potential in the sector.

He said that the creative economy was one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the global economy, offering new and high-growth opportunities, especially for developing and emerging countries.

” It contributes to meeting the sustainable development goals by generating income and export earnings, and by creating jobs, as outlined in the United Nations Creative Economy Report for 2020.

” Creative goods and services boost economies and contribute to inclusive social development.

“ For the continent of Africa, our arts and culture represent creativity and they remain critical to the advancement of the creative economy in Africa.

” At a time when the rate of unemployment is alarming and the youthful population continues to grow geometrically, arts, culture and the creative sector hold the key to channelling such youthful energies to productive use.”

Also, Prof. Duro Oni, said that the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) could be achieved with proper exploration of the economic potential in African arts and culture.

According to him, African artistic and cultural productions has much to contribute to the actualisation of the MDGs and the development of the continent.

He said that African arts and culture could contribute to the reduction of extreme poverty and hunger by creating employment opportunities, thereby achieving the MDGs objective of poverty eradication.

He noted that these employment opportunities would not just be for the professionals in the various fields of arts and culture on the African continent but also for the teeming youths of the continent.

“The MDGs especially as they pertain to the African continent have attracted a lot of scholarly interventions but the roles African arts and culture can play in their realisation has been ignored,” he said.

Oni noted that the eight goals of the MDGs were interconnected and failure in one or two of the goals would often result in failure in the others.

“As development experts have asserted, Africa’s creative economy which include film, music, art, fashion and other cultural goods and services have the potential to generate millions of dollars in income for African artists and their communities.

” This is actually true and African artistes need to leverage the current global interest in African cultural products to generate more revenue for their creativity.”

Dr Amos Adediran of the Department of Social Studies, Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, spoke on the need to reposition the youth for self-reliance through apprenticeship scheme.

Adediran said the youth should be allowed to engage in entrepreneurship scheme like welding, auto-mechanics, tailoring, generator repairing, phone/laptop repairing, hair dressing, plumbing and other businesses.

“The need to promote apprenticeship in today’s Nigerian educational system cannot be over emphasised.

“The Yoruba apprenticeship activities in recent times have a commendable effort toward improving standard of living and reduction of unemployment from the rural to urban settings.

“Nigerians and people of other developing countries of the world should emulate the Yoruba apprenticeship culture for the economic development of the individual and that of their nation.

“There should be a period of at least one year which every student should go for apprenticeship practical in order to make mastery of any trade he or she would like to settle with before graduation.

“Every culture should try as much as possible to promote their traditional and cultural heritage in order not to allow their vocational culture to die,” he said.

On his part, Prof. Akeem Akinwale of the Department of Employment Relations and Human Resource Management, University of Lagos, said that the interest in the development of culture should be the starting point of youth innovation in the creative industry.

Akinwale noted that all the agents of socialisation should encourage the youth to develop interest in the creative industry.

” Existing support for youth innovation should be simplified and clearly communicated,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Olayinka Olawale
Oba Omogbolahan Lawal, the Oniru of Iru Land, on Sunday inaugurated a bi-monthly magazine, “Oniru Gazette”, to promote culture, tradition, tourism, businesses and heritage of the people within Iru community in Lagos State.

The magazine, a 20-page document will be distributed free in hard copies and online.

Speaking during the inauguration at the Sol Beach, Lagos, Oba Lawal said that the tabloid would be used to disseminate information and facts about Iru community.

He noted that all information disseminated would be well researched and documented.

He said that the magazine would be used to educate and intimate people about the real story, real history and heritage of the area.

He said that the magazine would also further expand and strengthen the collaboration toward building a better and sustainable society.

According to him, there are so many activities around Eti-Osa which the Oniru gazette will help in disseminating information appropriately and factually.

“The objective is for us to say our own narrative the way it is and also to make sure that we encourage tourism using the platform because this zone is a tourists zone in Lagos.

“This corridor is known for real estate and also known for tourism. The magazine will be used to disseminate information and facts.

“It is also an opportunity for people that are within the zone Victoria Island, Eti-Osa and Lagos to be able to market their products, sell their products, and also to let a lot of people know about our heritage,” he said.

Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the state’s Commissioner for Tourism, commended the traditional ruler for the giant stride recorded in Iru, particularly by setting up the magazine.

She said that Iru community is one of the areas the state government is proud of for its developmental strides.

She said that the magazine would further educate the public on activities in and around the area as well as the state in general.

Benson-Awoyinka also commended Oba Lawal for transforming the coastal line within Oniru into a multi billion Naira investment in the shortest time of attaining the throne.

“The Oniru Gazette is something that we all should welcome, it’s something that’s going to speak to tourism around this area and going to speak to what Lagos really stands for as tourism.

“If you all know, the Iru area is designated as the tourism zone in Lagos. So; for this to be coming out of here, it is a welcome development.

“This is another opportunity for us to be able to disseminate information around the globe, since it is going to be online and not just hard copy.”

Mr Mazim Jamarkani, Co-Founder, Sol Beach, Oniru, also lauded the traditional ruler for his visionary leadership and commitment to further developing the area.

He congratulated Oba Lawal for the success of the magazine that would showcase a lot of beautiful things within the zone.

“We have a lot of beautiful things within Oniru and the magazine will be a very useful tool to you to promote culture and tourism.

Also, Mr Adii Nma, Managing Director, Good Beach, Oniru, said the magazine would serve as a good reference material for the younger generation.

He thanked Oba Lawal for supporting the young generation to grow their businesses within the zone.(NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Taiye Olayemi

Stakeholders in the arts and culture sectors, on Thursday in Abuja urged the Federal Government to merge the tourism and culture ministries.

They gave the recommendation in a communique issued at the end of a four-day National Stakeholders Conference on review of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST).

The review process had state commissioners for tourism, arts and culture divided into eight committees by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), organisers of the conference.

The committees are on : skills acquisition, cultural exchange and training, funding of the arts and culture sectors, establishment of cultural states.

Others are: one state one unique product, synergy between tourism and culture, e-marketing and review of 35 editions of NAFEST.

Dr Gerald Adewole, Chairman of the review committees, said  members resolved that tourism and culture should have a sole ministry because both were interwoven.

“The conference recommended that culture and tourism should remain as one ministry both at the federal and state levels to complement each other.

” And also to contribute meaningfully to the diversification efforts of government and the Gross Domestic Products of the nation.

“ Culture provides the content for the development of tourism, the conference stressed that culture and tourism are intricately interwoven and inseparable,” he said.

Adewole noted that skills acquisition programmes especially for women, youths and the physically challenged through formal education, informal,  traditional skill transfer and apprenticeship was recommended in the communique.

He said that structured international exchange programmes and synergy between local and international non-governmental organisations was also recommended.

He noted that this was necessary to engender unity in diversity, promote international diplomacy for peace, enhance cross fertilisation of ideas and promote international trade.

He said the conference  underscored the importance of cultural markets in the states as a means of employment and wealth creation, preservation of the rich cultural heritage and the establishment of one-stop-shop for cultural products.

“So, the establishment of cultural markets in the states to be domiciled in ministry of culture and tourism was strongly recommended.

“The conference identified sources of funding of the culture sector to include government, private sector, multinational organisations, development partners, donor agencies and charity organisations.

“It was therefore, recommended that these sources of funding should be explored by the states.

“We advise stakeholders like Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), RATTAWU to work with cultural agencies of government.

” This is with a view to ensuring sustained advocacy in order to push for the implementation of the National Endowment Fund for Arts.

“To achieve this, industry players must work together, and embark on programmes that will not only make them relevant, but indispensable stakeholders in the task of nation building.”

Adewole noted that NAFEST should be sustained, strengthened and developed to the status of a festival that needs no introduction and which encompasses all year round activities.

” This is because the festival remains a veritable platform for fostering national unity, peace, mutual understanding and cooperation among Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic group, culture, tribe or tongue.

“The festival should target different relevant audience such as diaspora community members of the academic community and the tourism sector.

“Programmes which can boost economic activities in the states should be introduced into the festival in a way that missing the hosting of the festival by a state would amount to missing a lifetime economic opportunity.”

Earlier, Chief Olusegun Runsewe, Director-General, NCAC, appreciated the committee members for a job well done.

Runsewe promised to ensure that the  document of the communique gets to each state governor and the federal government for full implementation of all the resolutions.

He expressed optimism that the 2024 edition of NAFEST would be the biggest and most impactful. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran