By Taiye Olayemi

The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) on Sunday mesmerised the audience at the Goge Africa Festival with an exhibition, showcasing relics from the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC 77).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival is the celebration and commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Goge Africa, which has its theme as “Symphony of Culture”.

The exhibition by CBAAC was part of activities for the Goge Africa Festival at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos.

The exhibition took the people down memory lane on the enduring legacy of FESTAC ’77, revitalising the spirit of Africa’s most iconic cultural extravaganza.

The CBAAC exhibition tagged “Our Shared Heritage” featured vintage recordings of legendary performances, rare photographs and documents, intricately crafted artefacts, historical recordings and footages.

This captivated young festival-goers, many of whom were discovering FESTAC ’77’s significance for the first time.

Also, the exhibition left indelible mark on the revellers, reminding them of Africa’s rich cultural diversity; the power of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving heritages.

Speaking with NAN, Aisha Adamu-Augie, Director-General of CBAAC, said the centre had come to display its over 126 publications.

“We are here to celebrate with Goge Africa and support them to continue to project the beauty of Africa, we all know how beautiful Africa is.

“Yes, we have our shared heritage exhibition here, we have over 126 publications showcased here, that people can buy and learn about African art, civilisation and heritages,” she said.

Adamu-Augie commended Goge Africa, saying it had the last 25 years remained steadfast.

”It is not easy to run a business in Nigeria, and to have been able to run for 25 years, it is exceptional and we are here to celebrate with them.”

She advised younger Nigerians to explore the nation’s culture, to generate employment and wealth.

According to her, culture can also be explored to effect peace and unity. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran