Mohammed Shosanya

The Abuja edition of the ‘Life In My City Art Festival’ Abuja Region Exhibition,has opened at the Thought Pyramid Art Centre Abuja with the theme ‘ Humanism’

A seven- month- old baby, Akuchinyere Bliss Enyeribe is among the artists taking part in the event which is an annual celebration of creativity featuring young talents in the Nigerian art landscape.

Akuchinyere showcased three of her works through her mother which are made up of paintings on the paper with different colours and impressions with the title ‘ The Art of Giving ‘

The event will feature festivals, lectures, engaging workshops for school children and art teachers as well as workshops for children with disabilities.

The Regional exhibitions will take place in fourteen ( 14 ) selected cities nationwide, providing artists from all regions with an opportunity to showcase their work .

The Grand finale of the event will be held on 19th – 26th October 2024 in Enugu, Enugu State and will showcase the work of 100 artists selected from the regional exhibitions with each artist sponsored to participate in the event.

Addressing journalists during the opening ceremony the LIMCAF Art Director, Ayo Adewunmi said the festival will feature 75 creative works of young artists who will be competing in the National competition involving artists from 15 regions of the county.

According to him, “ We think that there is a need to have opportunity for the younger generation and what we can do is to think of how we can help our younger Nigerian artists.

Asked about the criteria to be used by the local judges in making selection Adewunmi said “ The use certain criteria which includes; thematic relevance, technical proficiency, the art work, basic principles of art and the quality of production.

Those are the things the local jurists will look at and unfortunately we have limited space for each region. Abuja for instance may have more thank nine ( 9 ) entries out of these 75 . So is very and they consider the spread of the various area of art. You have mixed media, photography, digital art , so they consider that in their selection.
Adewunmi lamented the low patronage of the visual art in the country saying is not getting support that is required.

“ When you see a product like ‘Life In My City’ that is already making waves you need to support it and give it global relevance. We said let us encourage the artists to look at their environment and make statement concerning what is happening there even though we have thematic concept every year . But before now the idea is to talk about life in your city , village and environment. We expect them to look into their environment and interpret visually”.

The Director General National Council For Art and Culture, Mr. Obi Asika who was represented by Chris Obada commended the courage and resilience of the organizers of LIMCAF and determination of young people who took Art off the shelf and put it in the street.

He also pledged to prioritize the relationship between the council and the other stakeholders with the view to promoting art in the country.

According to Asika,”I wish to welcome everyone again to this event and I must say that I am very impressed with the ambience as provided by our regular host and foremost art hangout, the Thought Pyramid Art Centre. Well done.

“ When I received the invitation to this event, I asked for a brief concerning LIFE IN MY CITY and what I received had a huge imprint on me. Looking through the prism of my vision of charting a new course both in art administration and practice, I saw in LIMCAF courage, determination and resilience of young people who took Art off the shelf and put it in the streets, thereby enlivening art talents and berthing one of the most consistent creative converges that this sector has witnessed in the period of a little less than two decades.

“ On a worrisome note, the organisers of this event in their letter of invitation have termed the contribution of the National Gallery of Art to them in their 17 years of existence as “scanty” and for an agency whose primary responsibility is to oversee the development of our nation’s creative resource, that is not acceptable.

“ But let it be told that there is a new sheriff in town with a smoking gun and a listening ear for everyone. Please be informed that as Director General, I have begun to pull down barriers and diffuse negative energies that have hitherto affected relationships between the National Gallery of art and its critical stakeholders. So, impressions like this are becoming a thing of the past.

“ In closing, let me say that LIMCAF has done well as engine room of creative interchange and I consider it as great inspiration especially in an era when very many art programmes are depending on government handouts. Looking closely, I see areas of synergy between them and the National Gallery of Art and I am using this opportunity to invite them for cross fertilization of ideas for the benefit of the Visual Art sector.

“ Also, I am determined to expand the contents of our national Collection, therefore I am looking forward to the climax and award night of this gathering in October, 2024. Please come with me there again, and thank you for listening”

No fewer than 637 entries were received from around the regions including Lagos, Ogun, Ibadan, Abeokuta , Jos PortHarcourt , Abuja, Zaria and Enugu.

Also at the event was Martin Ilo , board member of LIMCAF, Cultural Affairs Officer US Embassy, Brian Neuberty , Associate Curator Thought Pyramid Art Centre , Ogbonnaya Eke and other art enthusiasts.

Mohammed Shosanya

Absa Group has announced that the exhibition “The Melodious Struggle of Souls and Consciousness” by multi-disciplinary and self-taught multifaceted Nigerian artist, Raji Bamidele, is finally coming to Nigeria.

The exhibition forms part of the Absa L’Atelier, in collaboration with the South African National Association with the Visual Arts (SANAVA).

Raji is the 2019 Absa L’Atelier Ambassador. He aims to take local art enthusiasts on an immersive journey into the profound depths of human existence – some of which may be familiar to many – with his latest solo exhibition.

He draws inspiration from the Yoruba people and their belief system. The Yoruba people, which are a West African ethnic group who inhabit parts of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, believe that the soul, consciousness, and spirit are intricately interconnected facets of the human experience.

His artwork encapsulates the concept that the soul embodies the mind, which reflects the heart, and the heart extends the soul and spirit. This interconnectedness forms the basis for a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

Dr. Paul Bayliss, Absa’s Senior Specialist: Art and Museum Curator, highlights the vital role played by the arts to society and support for the industry is pivotal, especially for young Africans.

“The arts sector in Africa is increasingly becoming an important economic sector, not only for the potential it holds for opportunities for young people, but for its ability to shape narrative for the future of the continent. The UNDP recognises the need to support the arts for their potential to lift many people out of poverty and to help transform how the global community sees Africa”, said Bayliss.

“Bamidele’s unique story is testament to this reality. He is talented, self-taught, and multifaceted, which proves that the continent is home for incredibly special and talented young people. And, once these stories are unearthed, more young people on the continent can resonate with the story, be inspired by the success, and work in similar fashion to contribute significantly to this continent.”

The exhibition will open in the Alliance Francais Gallery in Lagos to the public on Saturday, 23 June and run until 13 July 2024.

Absa remains committed to supporting the arts on the continent, which lives up to the brand promise of “Your Story Matters”, and ultimately recognises stories told through art, such as Bamidele.

Mohammed Shosanya

The Swedish government has resolved to return 39 pieces of Benin Artefacts in her Museum to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.

The action followed the Federal Republic of Nigeria Gazette No. 57, Volume 110 at pages A245-247 issued on March 23rd, 2023, which recognized ownership and vesting Custody and Management of repatriated Benin Artefacts in the Oba of Benin.

The Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Annika Hahn-Englund, conveyed the Swedish government decision when she paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Benin Palace in Benin City, Edo State.

Ambassador Hahn-Englund told the Royal father that Sweden and Nigeria, which is the second largest market in Sub-Sahara Africa, are trading partners, including infrastructure,telecommunication, energy and other businesses that supported the economies significantly.

The Swedish envoy, said, “also, I would like to mention that with cooperation, we have in Culture, Education with Nigeria; I would like to mention the decision of why the Swedish government has to return 39 Artefacts to Benin Kingdom.

“So, your Majesty, I am very honoured to be here tonight”, Ambassador Hahn-Englund said this while paying respect to Oba Ewuare II.

Responding, Oba Ewuare II on behalf of Edo people also welcomes the decision and expressed his deepest gratitude to the Swedish government for the intervention.

The Benin monarch recalled how he made a request through the Swedish monarch in 1998 to return Benin Bronzes in Sweden during his courtesy visit to him as Nigeria Ambassador to Scandinavian countries.

He disclosed that the federal government-backed Benin Royal Museum project is still on course, and commended partners for their support and devotion towards the project.

The Oba also commended the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), which is an agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria, responsible for the preservation, promotion, and development of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

The traditional ruler who prayed for members of the Diplomatic Mission, shared a captivating tale of his Diplomatic exploits as Ambassador in the Scandinavian Countries, noting that the remarkable reign and enduring affection of the Swedish monarch, His Royal Majesty, Carl Gustaf Folke Hubertus remain indelible.

According to Oba Ewuare II, the demand for the return of looted Benin Artefacts has been on since the reign of Oba Akenzua II, “and you are here today telling me that it has been approved. This has been my request a long time ago. God’s time is always the best”.

The Ambassador in the company of her husband and a member of the Diplomatic Mission, presented a souvenir to Oba Ewuare II, who in turn gave a copy of the federal government Gazette on all Benin Artefacts to the envoy in appreciation.

Mohammed Shosanya

This Nigerian Copyright Commission has dedicated this year’s World Book and Copyright Day to the Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, and named July 13 the National Reading Day to mark his 90th birthday.

The Director-General,NCC, John Asein,who disclosed this in a statement,also emphasized the import of allowing individuals to read in their preferred manner and location.

“Our Nobel laureate in Literature, playwright, essayist, literary icon and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, Prof Wole Soyinka, will turn 90 on the 13th of July, 2024.

“We are pleased to dedicate this year’s World Book and Copyright Day to him. He is unarguably the tallest living iroko in Nigeria’s rich literary forest and an advocate of books, reading and copyright.

“Beyond a befitting celebration of the literary icon on his 90th Birthday, the commission is calling on stakeholders in the book industry to recognise July 13 as Nigeria’s National Reading Day to encourage Nigerians to read for pleasure and draw attention to some of the values that he has advanced in the literary world.

“By this recognition, he becomes our first Copyright Change Champion,” the NCC DG announced.

He urged stakeholders in Nigeria’s book industry to recognise July 13 as Nigeria’s National Reading Day, coinciding with the 90th birthday celebration of the literary icon.

The World Book and Copyright Day is set aside every April 23 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation to focus on books, celebrate authors, promote reading, encourage non-discriminatory access to knowledge and raise copyright awareness.

In his goodwill message to mark the World Book and Copyright Day, Soyinka stressed the importance of intellectual property rights for authors.

He said the prevalence of pirated copies of authors’ works reflected poorly on society and governments’ understanding of copyright.

Soyinka urged concerted efforts to protect intellectual property, highlighting its significance in the global intellectual landscape.

He added:“An author’s encounter with pirated copies of his or her work is not the most inspiring of social responses to the literary occupation.

“It is also a sad reflection on such societies and the slack understanding of governments to the meaning and responsibilities of – copyright – the fundamental entitlement to intellectual property.

“As we celebrate yet another day dedicated to this product of human enlightenment, we should dedicate ourselves to the protection of this cornerstone in the intellectual edifice of humanity, across nations, races, faiths, cultures and histories.

“Even where the world persists in its impeccable strides towards a seeming destiny of self-destruction, the still, small voice of humanity refuses to be silenced, nor is its zeal of mission diminished.”

Mohammed Shosanya

A seasoned thespian,William Benson unveils his latest masterpiece, “The Rising Sun,” shining a spotlight on the remarkable life of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi of the Benin Kingdom.

Set against the backdrop of the 1897 Invasion of Benin, the play delves into the exile, demise, and succession of Oba Ovonramwen, offering a poignant exploration of Benin culture through vivid storytelling, dance, and music.

Scheduled to be unveiled at the Muson Centre on April 27th and 28th, as well as May 4th, 5th, and 11th, the production boasts a stellar 60-man cast, including renowned actors such as Patrick Doyle and ThinTallTony. The play also features Seyi Fasuyi as Oba Ovoramwen, Stephen Ogundele as Chief Obaseki, and Victor Coker as Chief Numa. Others are Inem Inyang – The narrator, Tony Okuyeme as Uzazakpo, and Nissi George as Ologbosere among others.

The Rising Sun: Ovonramwen Nogbaisi” offers a profound exploration of history from the perspective of the Bini people, shedding light on the cataclysmic events of the great Benin massacre of 1897 and the subsequent dethronement and exile of Oba Ovonramwen by the British Empire. furthermore, the play offers insights into the Oba’s tenure in Essien Town in Calabar from 1897 until 1914, when he ascended to the realm of his forebears, encapsulating a poignant saga of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of a people amidst adversity.

His unique perspective and meticulous attention to detail promise to breathe new life into the narrative, uncovering previously overlooked facets of Ovonramwen Nogbaisi’s exile in Calabar and ultimate ascension to the throne by his son, Eweka II.

“My plays are engaging and I am very experimental in my production. The story will entertain, educate, and open a conversation about our culture. It opens up an issue for the audience to go and find out if what was portrayed in The drama is true.”

At a press preview, Benson expressed his desire for the play to serve as a definitive portrayal of Benin history, commemorating the 127th anniversary of Ovonramwen’s dispossession from the throne. He stated, “I want the play to be that version that Benin kingdom will approve of. We need the support of the Edo State Government.”

The play, The Rising Sun” is curated by Quebic 4 Productions Limited, a production company renowned for curating epic dramas including ‘Gods Are Not To Blame’, ‘The Lion And The Jewel’, ‘The King Must Dance Naked’, ‘The Marriage Of Anansewa’, among others. And with the support of Ggadesola Adenrele, a successful businessman.

With a vision for the play’s longevity, Benson calls for support from the private sector and government, emphasising the job opportunities and cultural enrichment that theater productions like “The Rising Sun” can bring.

“My approach to theatre as it is today, setting out with this one I am not doing theatre of the short term because it’s not business viable, I want a situation where I have the show running for the next two to four years.

“For us to do this we need the support of the private sector and government. Because we are telling our story, they should help us by giving us grants we can pull from rather than telling us to go to the central bank and borrow money.

“The grants should be controlled by experts who know what it is and not by individuals who may give grants only to their friends. It’s not viable that way. I am calling the private sectors like the bank, oil and gas sector, and government to support the theatre industry so that what we set out to do will be easy. We create jobs, the number of people we have in this production is huge, and they will all be paid.”

Through “The Rising Sun: Ovonramwen Nogbaisi,” audiences are immersed in a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of a people amidst adversity, ensuring that the legacy of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi continues to shine brightly for generations to come.

Mohammed Shosanya

The Advisory Boards for The Nigeria Prize for Science, The Nigeria Prize for Literature and The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism,sponsored by Nigeria LNG (NLNG) Limited, have published the Call for Entries for the 2024 edition of the prizes, flagging off this year’s competitions.

The Science and Literature prizes, which are now in their 20th year, each come with a cash prize of $100, 000 while the Prize for Literary Criticism has prize money of $10,000.

The Nigeria Prize for Science recognises outstanding scientific achievements by Nigerians and non-Nigerians and will focus on Innovations and Technologies for Reducing the Effects of Climate Change as the theme for this year.

The Nigeria Prize for Literature, on the other hand, will focus on Children’s Literature. The prize, which honours the author of the best book by a Nigerian, rotates among four literary genres, namely Prose Fiction, Poetry, Drama and Children’s Literature.

The Literary Criticism Prize, which theme is on Children’s Literature, also aims to promote Nigerian Literature, will receive entries on works in literary criticism of Nigerian Literature, especially critical essays on new writings in Nigerian Literature.

The Call for Entries for the Literature prize and Literary Criticism will close on 2nd April 2024 while the window for the science prize will close on 30th April 2024,a statement said.

Professor Saleh Abdu chairs the panel of judges for this year’s Literature and the Literary Criticism competition. Professor Abdu is a Professor of English at the Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State.

He has taught courses mostly in Literature at various levels. He also served in Bayero University Kano and Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, as Head of Department (HOD), Faculty Sub-Dean, Dean of Faculty, Chair of Senate, Management and Council Committees. He has authored and co-authored several books including his Poet of the People’s Republic: Reading the Poetry of Niyi Osundare (2003).

Other panel members include Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Igudia Osarobu. Professor Sylvester is a writer who has been teaching at the Department of English, University of Abuja. Her prolific writing career has produced numerous award-winning novels, poems, and academic works.  Dr. Osarobu is a Doctor of Philosophy at the Department of Library Archival & Information Studies, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Advisory Board also announced Dr. Christopher Okemwa as the International Consultant. Dr. Okemwa is a Doctor of Poetry, Drama & Creative Writing, and he is a Literature Lecturer in Kisii University, Kenya.

The winners of the Nigeria Prize for Literature and the Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism, if any, will be announced at an award ceremony in October 2024 to commemorate the anniversary of the first LNG export from the NLNG’s Plant on October 9, 1999.

The Science Prize winner will be revealed in September 2024.

The Nigeria Prize for Literature and The Nigeria Prize for Science are part of NLNG’s contribution towards helping to build a better Nigeria.

Mohammed Shosanya

Asharami Synergy Kenya Limited, a Sahara Group Company, has announced Hope Nabalayo and Ariel Major, both students at University of Nairobi as joint winners of its creative writing competition at an awards ceremony held at KCA University, Nairobi, Kenya.

Cheryl Omolo, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Julius Musya Kilonzo, University of Baraton, and Nelson Gichuki, Kisii University emerged third, fourth and fifth, respectively.

In 2023 Asharami Synergy Kenya and the Sahara Group Foundation organised a creative writing competition for university students in Kenya aimed at fostering greater understanding and participation of youth in climate action, energy transition discourse, and sustainability.

Tagged the ‘Asharami Synergy Creative Writing Competition,the initiative received 225 submissions from university students who sent in essays, poems and plays on “creating a sustainable path for Africa’s energy transition.”

The winning entries stood out for their creativity, originality, and ability to convey compelling messages capable of facilitating the participation of young Kenyans in Africa’s March towards energy access and sustainability.

“This has been mission accomplished for Sahara Group Foundation and Asharami Synergy Kenya as our focus was to get youths in Kenya involved in the conversation around climate change and energy transition in Africa, especially seeing that they will bear the brunt of decisions made today.

The quality of the entries indicate we are on course to preparing Kenya youths for a seamless generational sustainability,” said Ejiro Gray, Director, Sahara Group Foundation.

Commending Sahara Group and Asharami Synergy Kenya for the initiative, Prof. Vincent Onywera, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Outreach at KCA University said, “climate change is a matter that calls for inclusive engagement of all stakeholders leaving no one behind, so this creative writing competition for our youths is important because we must catch them young.”

According to Lavinah Gonah, Operations Supervisor at Asharami Synergy Kenya, “Sahara Group is delighted at the success of the competition and commend all students who participated. Asharami Synergy Kenya remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure Kenya becomes a leading voice in driving a just energy transition for Africa.” Gonah added that Asharami Synergy Kenya in collaboration with the Sahara Group Foundation and Treedom had since commenced the planting of 1100 trees in Kenya to reduce carbon emissions.

Excited winner, Hope Nabalayo said: “Today, winning this award has validated me as a creative writer. I want to thank Asharami Synergy for giving me and many other students the opportunity to truly express ourselves, and contribute to the cause of creating sustainable solutions. Winning this award allows me to tap further into my creativity and be more vocal in environmental matters that affect Africa and knowing that as a youth I am at the forefront of fulfilling this mandate.”

Joint winner, Ariel Major said: ‘’I’m happy to have won this competition put together by the Sahara Group and Asharami Synergy Kenya. This is a milestone for me, I am passionate about climate justice and climate change. This competition is a step towards developing a clean Kenya and a clean Africa”.

Third-placed Cheryl said: “I am very happy to emerge as one of the winners and intend to continue contributing my thoughts on sustainability on many more platforms. I am grateful to Asharami Synergy Kenya and the Sahara Group Foundation for this laudable initiative. ”

In line with Sahara Group’s dedication to celebrating and rewarding excellence, the top five winners received cash prizes, plaques, and certificates for their excellent performance. The joint winners received $500 each, while the third, fourth and fifth winners received $250, $150, and $100, respectively.

In addition, outstanding entries will be published on the competition’s dedicated portal and other platforms.

Mohammed Shosanya

The Isale Eko Descendants Union, IDU, has extended warm wishes and congratulations to the iconic Nigerian actor, Prince Jide Kosoko, as he celebrates his remarkable 70th birthday.

The union, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Adeniji Kazeem (SAN), said the milestone is a testament to Kosoko’s incredible contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry and his unwavering commitment to the arts.

Kazeem, in the press statement, added that Kosoko has proven to be a distinguished figure, not only for his inimitable talent as an actor but also for his versatility and dedication to the world of film and theatre.

The group added that the actor’s performances have not only entertained audiences across generations but have also served as a source of inspiration for aspiring actors who look up to him with admiration.

Kazeem described Kosoko as a true ‘Omo Eko Pataki’ who preserved the dignity of the revered Eko royalty and has consistently projected the ancient city in a positive light through his numerous works and engagements.

“His artistic endeavours have become a source of pride for the Isale Eko community and the entire nation,” Kazeem was quoted in the statement.

“Beyond the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, Kosoko’s commitment to cultural and community engagements further solidifies his status as a cultural ambassador. The Isale Eko Descendants Union acknowledges and celebrates this enduring legacy that reaches beyond the silver screen.

“The 70th birthday celebration of Prince Kosoko serves as a moment of reflection on the joy he has brought to countless hearts through his illustrious career. It is a celebration of a man who has not only made a mark in the entertainment industry but has also contributed significantly to the cultural tapestry of Nigeria.

“We, the Isale Eko Descendants Union, express our heartfelt gratitude for Prince Kosoko’s invaluable contributions to the creative arts. May this milestone birthday celebration be a beacon of joy, reflecting the impact of a career that has touched the lives of many. As Prince Kosoko enters this new phase of life, we wish him continued success, good health, and happiness in the years ahead.”

It is impossible not to be inspired by Nigeria’s new Afrobeats generation. They have risen on the courage and chutzpah of the previous generation which includes the likes of 2face, Psquare, Freestyle (now Mista Styles), Sasha, Ruggedman, the Remedies, Bouqui and others, and they deserve credit for seizing the moment, casting out convention, and leaning in.

While major attention is fixed on the likes of Davido, the iconoclastic Burna Boy, the fearless Wizkid, and the brilliant Tems, I believe it is their younger sibling, Divine ‘Rema’ Ikubor, that fully captures the moment and its limitless potential and its range of possibilities.

People often think Nigerian creatives, especially its Afrobeats clan, need to be a certain way: gregarious, combative, other-focused. People think they have to surround themselves with activity and keep churning ‘content’. People expect them to stoke rivalries, rile up their base, and thump their chests.

However, Rema remained as himself: silent, focused and ferocious. I remember watching a raft of his interviews two years ago and thinking: This is the one who will remain, who will outlast and who will be unforgettable.

The major reason for his success is of course talent and hard work. But talent is not scarce in Nigeria, and, on average, everyone works work very hard. So I think the deeper reason for his success is his sense of inner-directedness. He doesn’t refer to anyone but himself. He is certain about who he is, what he is capable of and how far he can go.

His rise, as I have observed, is not driven by fear or competition. It is driven by a deep understanding that he has a unique contribution to the world, and he alone can make that contribution so there is no need to pay attention to what anyone else is doing.

It may seem odd to draw this comparison, but it’s not if you’ve been paying attention to him: Rema is what spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra referred to as ‘self-referential’ three decades ago. This is somewhat unusual because Rema is a staunch member of Gen Z.

Without judgment, it is a generation that is convinced that it must always be visible, always be heard and that the only game that counts is hustle and grind. Of course, the roots of this energy come from millennials, so no one should be too quick to get on their high horse.

But, remarkably, Rema has eschewed all of that to succeed in his own way, listen to his own voice, pay attention to his own spirit, and dance to his own tune, earning the African song with one billion streams on Spotify with “Calm Down.”

He is an icon and, almost inevitably, will end up becoming a legend. Because, you see, even Grammy-award-winning stars come and go, raves end, and trends expire, but legends? They matter for eternity. Those who have their eyes on the eternal and who see beyond the fickle here and now end up truly mattering. Rema teaches us that it never goes out of style to know oneself, to be oneself fully, and to walk one’s path, however lonely.

In this way, he is a voice – beyond the music – crying in the wilderness, a prophet speaking softly to his generation and age, telling them to calm down. In a time of great spiritual, emotional, and mental health crises, one can only hope that people will listen.