Events
Dr Reuben Abati Marks 60th Birthday with Book Launch
Dr Reuben Abati 60th birthday celebration in Lagos saw Obasanjo, Jonathan, and other dignitaries honour the journalist as he launched three new books
Dr Reuben Abati 60th birthday celebration turned into a remarkable gathering of Nigeria’s most influential figures on Friday, November 7, 2025, as dignitaries, journalists, and royal fathers converged on the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, to honour the veteran journalist and statesman.
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The event, which marked Dr Abati’s diamond jubilee, featured the launch of three new books, underscoring his continued impact as a scholar, thought leader, and patriotic voice of reason.
Presiding over the occasion was former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, who chaired the event, while former President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, also graced the celebration.
Other attendees included Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Lagos Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat (representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu), Chief Olusegun Osoba, and Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
Adding royal splendour to the gathering, His Majesty Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege (Olota of Ottaland) described Dr Abati as “an extraordinary human being whose life has inspired many”.
He noted that he remains proud to reference Dr Abati as a mentor in journalism, both at home and abroad.
Also present was the Alake of Egbaland, HRM Oba Adedotun Gbadebo (Okukenu IV), alongside other royal fathers and dignitaries, including HRM Oba Dr Ademola Eletu Ashorota, High Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun, Chief Dele Momodu, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, and Omooba Jamiu Komolafe.
In a remarkable show of solidarity, journalists and “pen warriors” from across Nigeria filled the venue, celebrating one of the nation’s finest voices in journalism and public service.
The atmosphere was filled with warmth, admiration, and heartfelt tributes.
The event not only celebrated Dr Abati’s career milestones but also reaffirmed his enduring influence on national discourse, mentorship, and intellectual excellence.
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As accolades poured in, many wished him continued success, health, and divine favour. Indeed, it was a memorable evening of honour, legacy, and gratitude for a man whose words have shaped minds and inspired a generation.
The contemporary art and photography exhibition “Wake Up!” is back again for a second edition.
Curated by Awele Onwordi, Wake Up! 2 exhibition pays homage to the Nigerian youth and burgeoning street culture which many of its contributing artists reference in their works.
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Titled “Young, Wild, Free”, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, resilience, freedom and cultural influence found in Nigerian youth.
Taking aim at societal issues and economic concerns, the exhibit reflects the youth and their refusal to compromise or bow despite all the challenges stacked against them while charting youth culture through art, music, fashion, skateboarding, photography and community.
The exhibition will be held, once again, at the Angel and Muse Gallery at 25 Sumbo Jibowu street off Ribadu Road off Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.
It will open on Saturday 5 September 2026 and will run until 11 September 2026
This second edition which focuses on celebrating, nurturing and exploring artistic practices rooted in youth and street culture will feature works from DENCITY and SUPERGLIDER HOUSE.
Exhibiting artists include Ajilore Kehinde – their work is deeply influenced by Nigerian street culture and works of other artists like Slawn, Peters Ejiro, etc, Chuka Onwordi – graphic designer who embodies themes of death, melancholy and beauty in his works, ZIDYEP – Abuja based creative whose works move between digital and physical spaces through art, graphic design and air brushing , Franklyn Okoye – graphic designer and artist whose works explore themes of identity and hyper-reality, Awele Onwordi – founder & curator of WAKE UP and multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans character art, creative logo design, album covers and more , Oluchi Kogolo – digital illustrator whose work explores street culture, personality and storytelling through a raw and playful visual style and Kozetuo Apeji – multidisciplinary artists who work explores experimental approaches to problem solving through both digital and traditional art forms.
Commenting on the exhibition in her curatorial statement, Awele noted that “despite economic instability, limited opportunities and socio-political challenges, Nigerian youth continue to shape culture through music, fashion, art, skateboarding, raves, photography and community.”
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Continuing and harping on the raison d’etre of the exhibition she said, “Young, Wild and Free exists to celebrate Nigerian youth while also creating a platform that supports and amplifies them.”
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