By Taiye Olayemi
Mr Ed Keazor, Director of Nsibidi Institute, says the connections between Nigerian contemporary and historical popular cultures must be explored for improved promotion and understanding.
Keazor said this in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.
According to him, Nigerian culture cannot be fully appreciated without recognising how present-day music, film, literature, fashion, and media draw inspiration from historical traditions and how they are often reinterpreted.
He said that exploring these linkages would strengthen cultural identity and provide younger generations with a sense of continuity and belonging.
He explained the historical popular cultures as: heritages, traditions, old media, early arts, and cultures as: modern arts, media, fashion, film, and more.
He described the institute as an independent research and cultural organisation devoted to preserving and reimagining indigenous knowledge systems rooted in Nigerian history, language, and identity.
He said that the institute will be hosting an inaugural festival to showcase the affinities between Nigerian contemporary and historical popular cultures through symposiums, exhibitions, film screenings, and interactive sessions.
“This is meant to drive better understanding of our culture, and it will hold from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28 at Quintessence, Victoria Island in Lagos.
“The theme will be “The Past in the Present Around Us: A Retrospective Celebration of Nigerian Popular Culture”.
“The opening day will feature a keynote address titled “Heritage and Future in the Past”, to be delivered by Mr Obi Asika, Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture.
“There will be a symposium on “The Nigerian Popular Press: A Driver of Heritage and Social Culture”, to be moderated by Mrs Aduke Gomez, with panelists such as Mr Jahman Anikulapo, Mr Don Adinuba, Mrs Freda Olatunbosun and Mr Micheal Effiong James.
“Exhibitions on century-old newspaper advertising (1863–1963) and a film screening on “Lagos: The Birth of a City Style (1861–1967)” by Muni and Ed Keazor will also be showcased,” he said.
He noted that a book discussion on “Hubris: A Brief Political History of the Nigerian Army” by retired Maj-Gen. Tunde Akinkunmi will focus on “Military Rule and Social Impact” and will feature a conversation with , Mr Yemi Candide-Johnson (SAN).
“The evening session will celebrate veteran photographer Don Barber in “A Life Behind the Lens” to be moderated by Mr Dayo Adedayo.
“The second day of the festival will hold at Didi Museum, Victoria Island, while the closing ceremony, featuring awards and recognitions, will return to Quintessence on Sept. 28,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
