By Joan Odafe

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has met with key international stakeholders to spotlight indigenous fashion and textiles on the global stage.

The engagement was with the Founder of Africa Fashion Week London and Nigeria, Mrs Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, and the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr Johnny Baxter.

The Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the ministry, Mrs Adeoti Sobowale, said that the celebration of the 15th Edition of Africa Fashion Week London was part of the discussions at the meeting.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Africa Fashion Week London is a milestone achievement for the continent’s global fashion movement.

Benson-Awoyinka said the meeting was aimed at advancing the cultural and economic potential of Adire textiles, an iconic Yoruba fabric, as a major export and symbol of Nigeria’s rich heritage.

Benson-Awoyinka said the state was committed to supporting creative platforms that empower designers, preserve cultural identity and contribute meaningfully to its economy.

The commissioner said such partnerships were vital in amplifying African narratives and positioning the state as the heartbeat of fashion and creativity on the continent.

“As the fashion and creative capital of Nigeria, Lagos remains a catalyst for innovation, style and enterprise.

“We are proud to support initiatives that promote our cultural assets and inspire the next generation of creatives,” she said.

Benson-Awoyinka said the meeting was a major step forward in promoting Adire and African fashion globally.

Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, who is the wife of the Ooni of Ife, expressed happiness in what she described as a landmark initiative.

She said there would be other collaborations for the fashion week.

Some of the collaborations include the British Museum, Disney The Lion King Africa Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University London, Winchester School of Art London and London School of Economics. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Mercy Neme

The Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN), says he is happy with the immense contributions of the Nollywood industry in branding and projecting the image of Asaba Kingdom to the outside world.

Azinge said this when a delegation of actors and actresses, led by philanthropist Sonia Patterson, paid him a visit at the palace.

He said that his kingdom would continue to encourage the growth of the industry, given its potential to promote the city’s culture and economy.

He recalled how the community had sometime intervened to ensure that the Film Village was sited in Asaba, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the industry.

The royal father further disclosed that plans were underway to acquire 350 acres of land for a California-based Asaba son, a leading light in Hollywood, to replicate his industry in Asaba.

He praised the creative minds of scriptwriters, actors, and actresses, acknowledging the skills and dexterity required to bring stories to life.

In a speech, Patterson expressed joy in doing good for children, the elderly, and the Nollywood industry, without expecting rewards.

Patterson highlighted her philanthropic activities in some cities, including Lagos, Owerri, Enugu, and Asaba, emphasising her commitment to putting smiles on people’s faces. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sam Oditah

By Joan Odafe

The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) has projected that Africa’s tourism sector will create over 80 million new jobs in the next ten years.

The Director-General of CBAAC, Mrs Aisha Augie, gave the projection during a two-day international conference organised by the centre on Tuesday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event is in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos, and the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS).

The theme of the event is ‘Cultural Tourism, Creative Economy and Sustainable Development in Africa’.

Augie, while describing tourism as a pillar for economic revival, said the industry was central to the transformation of the continent.

Citing the World Travel and Tourism Council, Augie said: “Tourism contributed $168 billion to Africa’s GDP in 2024 and poised to create over 80 million new jobs in the coming decade.

“They are not just statistics, they represent livelihoods, opportunities and hope for the millions of Africans.”

Highlighting festivals including the Ojude Oba, Osun-Osogbo, Calabar Carnival and durbars, Augie said tourism was more than a journey but an experience of culture.

She noted that tourists were not just visitors but participants, consumers and investors.

Emphasising the potential, she said current projections showed that tourism revenue would reach $25.1 billion in 2025.

“Every visitor who attends a local festival, buys a hand-packed event ticket or watches a traditional performance, is directly investing in Africa’s creative product.

“This connection between tourism and creativity forms a system that powers communities, supports artisans and tells our stories of the global stage.

“Across the continent, our creative industries, film, music, fashion, visual arts, storytelling, design, are thriving.

“They are currently generating over $4.2 billion dollars annually and have the potential to create up to $20 billion annually,” she said.

Augie said there was a need for the creative sector to be positioned to benefit equitably from this growth.

She, however, said that in spite of the growth, sustainability was low.

She added that growth without sustainability was not progress but a short-lived impulse.

The director-general urged participants at the event to commit actions that uplift Africa’s traditions, honour heritage, empower youths and protect the planet. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Raji Rasak

The 2025 edition of Door of Return celebrations has been scheduled for Oct. 18 in Badagry.

Mr Bonu Solomon, member representing Badagry Constituency I in the state’s House of Assembly, disclosed.

Solomon said that the Door of Return initiative was expected to attract global attention, thus positioning Badagry as a key destination for cultural tourism, historical education and diaspora homecomings.

“The event is anticipated to feature cultural performances, historical reenactments and international participation, reinforcing Badagry’s significance in the African diaspora narrative.

“This iconic monument will undoubtedly promote tourism in Lagos State and showcase Badagry’s rich history,” he said.

According to him, the project aligns with the state’s broader vision of preserving heritage sites, while boosting economic opportunities for local communities.

Solomon praised the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration’s commitment to tourism in Badagry.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the announcement has sparked excitement among cultural enthusiasts, historians and tourism stakeholders.

NAN also reports that the Door of Return is a symbolic monument in Badagry, mirroring Ghana’s Door of No Return.

It serves as a reminder of the trans-atlantic slave trade while promoting reconciliation and heritage tourism. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

By Bukola Adetoye

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has described cultural festivals like Ojude Oba as vital tools for stimulating the local economy and enhancing global recognition.

Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage—not just for the Ijebu people but for the benefit of humanity at large.

“This celebration aligns seamlessly with our administration’s development philosophy, the Building Our Future Together agenda,” Abiodun said.

“Festivals like Ojude Oba are critical to our vision of promoting the local economy, attracting global visibility, and fortifying our cultural capital.

“Our cultural heritage is a powerful tool for national development.”

He described Ojude Oba as a symbol of communal harmony, where religion, tradition, and modernity coexist under a shared identity.

According to the governor, the festival has evolved from a regional celebration into a living heritage that strengthens cultural roots and offers direction in a world marked by increasing social fragmentation.

“Ojude Oba is now a vibrant fulcrum of our culture—our pride, our values, and our continuity,” he said.

“This year’s theme, Celebrating Our Roots, Preserving Our Future, captures the very essence of this gathering.”

He noted the growing popularity of the festival among youth both at home and abroad, calling for deliberate efforts to accommodate its expanding influence.

“This festival has outgrown its current scope. We must take bold steps to scale it up,” Abiodun added.

The governor, who highlighed the festival’s broader role, said Ojude Oba had become a dynamic platform for tourism, youth engagement, and entrepreneurship, and pledged his administration’s commitment to expanding its reach and socio-economic impact.

In a goodwill message, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Deputy, Mr Olayide Adelani, praised the festival for advancing tourism and local enterprise.

He described culture as “a dynamic vehicle that drives economic growth,” saying “Ojude Oba creates jobs, promotes peace, and attracts foreign investment.”

Also speaking, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hannatu Musawa, highlighted Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, which she said had endured through generations and gained international appreciation.

She disclosed that the Federal Government was working closely with state governments to harness the cultural uniqueness of each region for national development.

“Ogun holds a significant place in Nigeria’s history through its contributions from illustrious sons and daughters,” she said.

“It is time we fully explored what culture can offer our country.”

The minister expressed hope that Ojude Oba would continue to grow, eventually becoming a major attraction for foreign tourists. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

By Gabriel Agbeja

The Yoruba Community in Abuja says its 2025 Cultural Festival will promote peace, unity, and national development.

This community’s President, Mr Abdulhakeem Adetunji, and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Pastor Gabriel Oladabo, said the event is scheduled for June 21 at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Abuja.

It aims to bring together Yoruba sons and daughters residing in Abuja and surrounding areas.

“The festival seeks to reconnect with our cultural roots, showcase the beauty of our traditions, and foster unity, peace, and progress among our people.

“This third edition will be a grand celebration of Yoruba heritage, culture, and unity.

“Highlights of the event will include traditional music, drumming, cultural dance performances, a Yoruba culinary experience, craft exhibitions, fashion displays, folklore, and oral poetry (Ewi).

“The programme will also feature panel discussions on Yoruba identity, youth empowerment, and cultural diplomacy.

“Other key segments include a royal parade of Yoruba Obas and traditional rulers, as well as awards and recognition for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Yoruba culture and development.”

The organisers noted that the cultural convergence would be a family-friendly, interactive experience designed to educate, entertain, and unite.

They said it would also offer business exhibitions, networking opportunities, and brand visibility for partners and sponsors.

“We call on all Yoruba descendants, culture enthusiasts, media partners, businesses, and friends of Yoruba culture to be a part of this historic celebration.

“To join the Yoruba Community Database or support the event in any capacity, please call 08065656586 or 07030772400.

“Let us celebrate our identity, preserve our heritage, and inspire a collective future rooted in pride and culture,” they said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Abiemwense Moru