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    Colours, thrills of Asun Carnival

    Published

    12 months ago

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    Expectation was palpable in the air, as the atmosphere draped with pomp, effervescent and suffusing colours as well as excitement and thrills filled the air. This is as the stadium of the Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, in Ondo State, took on a different colouration.

    The mood was that of carnival and you could feel the excitement and exhilaration written on the faces of the people as they trickled in their numbers into the stadium to partake in the communal feast that was about to unfold for the day.

    It was the fourth edition of the annual Asun Carnival 2024 that was billed for the day that was about to kick start. The annual celebration is the initiative of Wanle Akinboboye, founder and president of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, as part of his effort at developing and promoting tourism. It is also aimed at growing the economy of Ondo, his own home, the state, and extending to Nigeria and Africa.

    Before long the different stands and available spaces in the stadium, booming with colours, was taken over by people of different ages, colours and backgrounds that have come to the communal feast to harvest rich dosages of fun expected to be put on display by the different carnival floats and revelries, among other entertainers, who did not disappoint as they all spun out high octave entertainment to the delight of the people.

    Different fun-filled and well-curated activities that underscored the brand signature of La Campagne, which is an exciting and colourful blend of African themed motifs, took over the air. Some of the activities included the grand finale of the Inter Street Football Competition, which has over the years become a major attraction of the carnival, attracting huge participation from the people within the town and the entire state.

    The crowd was in an ecstatic mood by the time the various carnival floats, with their revelries dressed in different attires, took over the stage to entertain, with a rich blend of dance and music, while the booming sound filled the entire stadium atmosphere.

    The climax of the rich blend of entertainment broths served on that day was the musical performance by Atunda Entertainment, the entertainment arm of La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, alongside other guest artistes, who thrilled the crowd to their fill.

    Some of the star artistes that held the people spellbound; dancing, gyrating and singing along include; Olo Omidan Bata, who gave an extraordinary performance that shook the whole stadium. She is the rare and famous female ‘bata’ drummer and singer nurtured through the cradle by Akinboboye.

    Tasha, also from the stable of Atunda Entertainment, kept the fire and excitement on high level, with his brand of music and performance that the people could not have enough of as he had to make way for other artists to showcase their rich offerings as well.

    Next on the bill was Ara Thunder, the petite and talented female drummer, who among her rare and inherent musical gifts is the ability to perform Gangan in Yoruba language, fluently and effortlessly. Something that is definitely rare for a young musical artiste of her age from the Igbo extraction.

    Ara Thunder loomed over the stage, taking her performance to a crescendo and sending the people into an exhilarating mood as she electrified the stage with her energetic performance, infused with well-curated performance on the drum and her singing prowess.

    Another exciting performance of the day that caught everyone by surprise, and which no doubt was embraced by all, setting everyone on the edge of their seats, was the Kolokun competition. A live goat was set loose, with the smartest and fastest person from among the crowd who registered for the event expected to catch up with the live goat, which raced through the pitch.

    It was quite an exciting, fun filled and hilarious goat race, as both males and females, at different times were made in their numbers to run after the live goat. The male and female winners in each category went home with the live goats at the end of the race as their rewards.

    Among those celebrated during the carnival this year were the winners of the Inter Street Football Competition, and the annual Asun Football Competition.

    Prominent people from across the state and country that attended the event included government officials, corporate bodies and royal fathers. The royal guest of the carnival was Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo JILO III, the Osemawe Kiladejo 1, the Oba of Ondo. He commended Akinboboye, for the annual Asun Carnival, which he said, has become a great unifying factor among the indigenes of Ondo State, Nigerians and Africans at large.

    The monarch, who was represented by Chief Akinbileje Iiyemoja of Ondo Kingdom, noted that he was impressed by the massive turn out of people for the event this year. He also expressed delight over the fact that Asun Carnival this year inspired the home coming of many of the sons and daughters of Ondo and the state, who had with them some of their friends and business partners from across Nigeria and the world.

    This, he said, is a great development and something that needs to be encouraged, as it will help in the development of the people and the community, State and Nigeria as whole. He implored them to continue in this stride while also expressing appreciation to Akinboboye for his exceptional and visionary commitment to tourism development and promotion.

    On the rain that fell a night before the carnival, the traditional ruler noted that it was a blessing from the gods and a show that the carnival has spiritual blessings that bode well for the town and the people.

    “The rain the previous day was actually to render special blessings to this year’s Asun Carnival. As today Saturday has arrived with clear weather, necessary for the Asun Carnival celebration for this year 2024,” he said.

    2025 edition will surpass this year’s edition – Akinboboye

    In his remark at the occasion, Akinboboye, who is also the promoter of Continent Building Initiative through Motherland Beckons, which over the years has birthed different activations, including Asun Carnival, expressed his appreciation to the people and all those who contributed to the huge success of the carnival this year.

    He noted that the event this year was far greater that all other editions before it, adding that everything will be done to ensure that the 2025 edition surpassed all the editions so far staged. He, therefore, called on the people, government and corporate bodies, to continue to support the carnival and ensure that they heed ‘Motherland Beckons’ call.’

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    Festivals

    Lagos State announces return of vibrant Fanti Carnival in partnership with Brazil

    Published

    5 days ago

    on

    April 16, 2025

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    Lagos Fanti Carnival

    The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Brazilian Consulate, announces the return of the historic Lagos Fanti Carnival on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, celebrating Afro-Brazilian heritage and cultural exchange

    The Lagos State Government, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Consulate of Brazil in Lagos, has officially announced the highly anticipated return of the Lagos Fanti Carnival.

    Also read: Lagos unveils ambitious 20-year plan to transform Ibeju-Lekki

    The vibrant cultural extravaganza is scheduled to take place on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

    Speaking at a press briefing held at the Brazilian Consulate in Lagos Island on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the carnival as a cherished and significant cultural celebration for Lagos State.

    She emphasized its historical importance, particularly its deep roots in the Afro-Brazilian communities of Yoruba descent who resettled in Lagos in the late 19th century after enduring displacement from the transatlantic slave trade. These returnees played a crucial role in shaping the unique cultural landscape of Lagos.

    “The Lagos Fanti Carnival is more than a spectacle—it is a vibrant, living expression of our collective history,” stated Mrs Benson-Awoyinka.

    “It is a celebration of the resilience, identity, and creative spirit of Afro-Brazilian returnees who blended samba rhythms, Catholic influences, and street performance into what evolved as the Fancy Carnival.”

    The Commissioner highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to preserving Lagos’ rich cultural heritage through community-led initiatives, including the citywide heritage plaque program designed to share the stories of significant sites and traditions.

    “The Lagos Fanti Carnival is more than a spectacle—it is a vibrant, living expression of our collective history,” said Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka.

    She expressed profound gratitude to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support in promoting the state’s cultural and tourism sectors, noting his instrumental role in repositioning Lagos as a global cultural hub.

    In his remarks, the Consul General of Brazil in Lagos, Ambassador Manuel Innocencio del Lacerda Santos Jr., underscored the enduring historical and cultural ties between Brazil and Nigeria, emphasizing shared history, culture, cuisine, and spirit.

    He noted that the Fanti Carnival serves as a powerful reminder of the strong bond between the two nations, holding immense potential for future collaborations in various sectors. Ambassador Santos Jr. also reflected on the significant cultural influence of Yoruba traditions in Brazil, making Brazilians feel at home in Lagos.

    Mr. Peter Richie of IconGeo presented the ceremonial route map of the carnival, stressing the importance of community inclusion in urban renewal efforts.

    He also unveiled historical maps of Lagos, highlighting the historical significance of the Brazilian Quarters. Dr. Kola Peregrino, President of the Brazilian Descendants Association, commended the government’s support and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to preserving Afro-Brazilian heritage in Lagos.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, expressed gratitude to all partners and stakeholders for their dedication to reviving this significant cultural legacy and expressed optimism for wide media coverage of the upcoming carnival.

    The Lagos Fanti Carnival 2025 promises a captivating celebration of identity, featuring parades, music, storytelling, fashion, and cuisine. It is a key part of the Ministry’s broader vision to calendarize tourism events, establishing Lagos as a vibrant, year-round cultural destination.

    As Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka concluded, “Culture is not buried in textbooks—it lives in our streets, our communities, and our celebrations. Let us raise the Lagos Fanti Carnival to its rightful place on the global cultural stage: bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.”

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    Festivals

    Adamawa to host ADAFEST 2025 as Governor Fintiri revives cultural showcase

    Published

    7 days ago

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    April 14, 2025

    By

    Adamawa State Arts and Culture Festival

    Adamawa revives its cultural heritage as ADAFEST 2025 returns after decades, spotlighting unity, investment, and local traditions

    The Adamawa State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Aloysius Baba Dokes, has praised Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to cultural revival ahead of the highly anticipated Adamawa State Arts and Culture Festival (ADAFEST 2025).

    Also read: Adamawa’s new emirates: a pathway to cultural revival and development

    Scheduled to take place from 25 to 29 April 2025, ADAFEST is set to become a defining celebration of Adamawa’s rich heritage, with the potential to boost economic activities and attract both local and international investment.

    In a press statement, Hon. Dokes expressed gratitude for the governor’s “listening ear and tireless energy,” noting that the revival of ADAFEST after nearly two decades marks a major cultural milestone for the state.

    “Governor Fintiri has raised the bar of leadership with his passion for serving humanity,” Dokes said, applauding the governor’s approval and proactive support for the festival. “His dedication has made this celebration of Adamawa’s diversity and pride possible.”

    ADAFEST was first held in 1978 during the era of the defunct Gongola State, and later revived briefly in 2005. The 2025 edition marks its official return since the creation of Adamawa State in 1992, underscoring a renewed commitment to cultural preservation and promotion.

    Adamawa is home to several renowned cultural landmarks, including the Sukur UNESCO World Heritage Site, which reflects the depth of tradition in the region. The return of ADAFEST aligns with efforts to reinforce unity and peace through cultural expression.

    ADAFEST 2025 is designed to celebrate the state’s traditions, languages, dance, crafts, and cuisine while also serving as a platform for economic growth, creative industry expansion, and tourism development.

    The festival is expected to draw global attention to Adamawa’s cultural and economic potential, positioning the state as a key destination for cultural tourism in Nigeria.

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    Festivals

    Nigerian film “My Father’s Shadow” makes historic Cannes selection

    Published

    1 week ago

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    April 11, 2025

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    Nigerian film Cannes Film Festival

    Akinola Davies Jr.’s “My Father’s Shadow” secures a coveted spot at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a historic moment for Nigerian cinema after nearly 80 years

     

    For the first time in almost eight decades, a Nigerian film has been selected to compete at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Akinola Davies Jr.’s “My Father’s Shadow” will feature in the festival’s 2025 edition, screening in the esteemed Un Certain Regard category between May 13 and 24, 2025, festival organisers announced on Thursday.

    Set in Lagos against the backdrop of the pivotal 1993 presidential election, “My Father’s Shadow” is directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and produced by Fatherland Productions, led by Funmbi Ogunbanwo and Wale Davies. The film was chosen from over 2,900 feature film entries for the 2025 festival lineup.

    Reacting to this historic selection, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, extended her congratulations to the filmmaker and his team. She hailed the achievement as a landmark moment for Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.

    “This momentous achievement is not only a personal milestone for Akinola Davies and the remarkable team at Fatherland Productions, but also a landmark moment for Nigerian cinema,” Musawa stated. “’My Father’s Shadow’ stands as a powerful testament to what is possible when homegrown talent is nurtured, empowered, and given the space to shine.”

    She emphasised that the film, featuring a predominantly Nigerian cast and crew, effectively showcases the richness of Nigerian narratives and the country’s vibrant cultural identity.

    The Minister also commended Fatherland Productions for their consistent dedication to African storytelling, which has previously garnered recognition from BAFTA and the Sundance Film Festival.

    “As we prepare to support ‘My Father’s Shadow’ and its creators at Cannes through Screen Nigeria—our national platform for promoting Nigeria’s audiovisual industry—we are reminded of the importance of initiatives like Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere,” Musawa added.

    She explained that this initiative forms part of a broader soft power strategy aimed at exporting Nigerian creative products and elevating the voices of talents like Akinola, Funmbi, and Wale on the global stage.

    The Ministry is also scheduled to officially launch the Screen Nigeria platform at the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, as a key component of the Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere campaign. This platform is designed to spotlight Nigeria’s burgeoning audiovisual sector and its wealth of creative talent.

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