‘Afropolis’: African rich cultural heritage, creativity deserve celebration — Commissioner
Lagos- The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka says African rich cultural heritage, creativity and innovation deserves more celebration for cultural and economic prosperity.
Benson-Awoyinka made this remark on Wednesday at the Town Hall Meeting preceding Afropolis Lagos 2024, held at the JK Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture abd History, Onikan, Lagos.
Extending her deepest appreciation to the co-organisers of Afropolis Lagos for providing a comprehensive overview of the programme, Benson-Awoyinka said that Lagos, as the host city, was proud to be at the forefront of the cultural revolution.
“As we have heard, Afropolis is not just an event; it is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, creativity, and innovation.
“It is a platform where African creatives can come together to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and collaborate on groundbreaking projects.
“This festival is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic spirit of our continent,” the commissioner said.
According to her, Lagos is renowned as the largest black cultural melting pot in the world, and the state has continued to lead in various creative sectors such as music, fashion, gaming, tech, design, film, dance, AI, and research.
“Our young talents are making significant strides on the global stage, and events like AFROPOLIS provide them with the visibility and opportunities they deserve,” she added.
She said that over the past few years, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture had been committed to supporting and nurturing our creative industries.
Benson-Awoyinka said that the ministry had made significant investments in infrastructure, such as renovating key cultural sites and establishing new venues for arts and performances.
“These efforts ensure that our artists have the platforms they need to thrive,” she said.
According to her, the essence of Afropolis lies in its ability to bring together a diverse array of creative minds.
“Imagine the vibrant fusion of traditional and modern expressions that will be on display, from indigenous crafts to cutting-edge digital art.
“This melting point of ideas and talents promises to be an unforgettable experience for both participants and attendees,” the commissioner said.
She said that it was also important to reflect on the historical significance of Onikan.
Benson-Awoyinka said that the area had long been a cultural hub, saying hosting Afropolis here would bring a fitting tribute to its legacy.
She said that the JK.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, in particular, stands as a beacon of our rich heritage and offers the perfect backdrop for the celebration.
The commissioner said that the Lagos State government had launched various funding programs to support young creatives and organised international cultural exchange programmes.
“These initiatives have enabled our artists to gain new perspectives, enhance their skills, and bring innovative ideas back to Lagos,” she said.
The commissioner said that hosting high-profile events such as Lagos Fashion Week, Lagos Theatre Festival, and Lagos Photo Festival had also played a crucial role in putting Lagos on the global cultural map.
“These events attract international attention, foster collaborations, and showcase the immense talent and creativity that our city has to offer,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka said that Afropolis scheduled for the end of October through to early November, would transform Onikan’s main street, J. Randle Road, into a vibrant hub of artistic and technological excellence.
“The festival will feature a curated marketplace, traditional and contemporary performances, exhibitions, and much more. It will bring together creatives, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond.
“The goal of Afropolis is to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and celebrate the diverse traditions and creativity of Africa.
“We aim to create a space where creatives from diverse backgrounds can come together to share ideas, learn from each other, and create something truly unique,” she said.
She encouraged everyone to participate actively and make the most of the opportunities the event would present.
“Let us work together to ensure that AFROPOLIS LAGOS 2024 is a resounding success and a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation of Africa.
“We believe in the power of creativity and culture to drive economic growth, foster community spirit, and enhance our global reputation.
Expatiating more on the event, Qudus Onikede, the organiser of the Afropolis said that event would be a pan-african gathering of creatives and curious people.
According to him, it seeks to celebrate African culture and promote same for economic competitiveness.
Highlighting programmes of the nine-day event, Onikede, a professional dancer, said Afropolis would feature a maker fair, pop up fashion stores, arts and craft market, live performances.
He said that other features included street arts, street food, street vendors, music concerts, Djsets, master classes, meetings and networking other speed pitches.
The rest are talks and round-tables, gaming, innovation exhibition, children playground and urban culture display.
According to him, Afropolis will also see a range of smaller break-outs and highly interactive sessions, master classes focused on topics across creative sectors.
Onikede said: “It is projected that Afropolis will attract more than 1,000 creatives and exhibitors from Africa and the diaspora.
“We also expect more than 20,000 visitors, buyers and delegates from Africa, the diaspora and the rest of the World.
“Provide a platform for young talents to showcase their ideas, and stimulate economic growth for local vendors, artisans, and global African creatives to showcase their product or services.
“It will position Lagos as a hub for technology, creativity and innovation by leveraging the festival to showcase African advancements in art, tech, gaming, design, fashion and other creative fields.”
He said that Afropolis would ensure that creatives artistes were able to meet and network, and also meet with buyers and potential partners and investors.
He said that it would attract international audience, contributing to the growth of the local tourism industry and positioning Lagos as a global cultural destination.
Onikede has the potential to ensure long-term economic and cultural benefits for local businesses and residents. (Shadanpamaeporters)
