Ecobank Nigeria celebrates Fela’s Afrobeat legacy through the Afrobeat Rebellion exhibition, promoting African creativity and cultural transformation
Ecobank Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting African creativity and cultural transformation through the ongoing “Fela Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion” exhibition — a celebration of art, activism, and identity that continues to inspire across generations.
Speaking at the exhibition’s opening, Omoboye Edu, Head of SME at Ecobank Nigeria, said the event aligns with the bank’s mission to drive innovation and cultural expression across the continent.
“Hosting Afrobeat Rebellion at EPAC aligns with our mission to showcase Africa’s creative energy,” Edu said. “We are proud to celebrate Fela’s legacy and the spirit of Afrobeat in a space that encourages dialogue, imagination, and progress.”
The three-month exhibition, which opened on October 12 and runs until December 28, 2025, celebrates the life, music, and activism of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, exploring his lasting influence as both an artist and a revolutionary.
Beyond honouring Fela’s legacy, the event reinforces Ecobank’s wider goal of fostering economic growth through creative industries. Edu noted that platforms like EPAC strengthen entrepreneurship, collaboration, and cultural exchange — vital elements of Africa’s creative economy.
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the CEO of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, Mrs Bukola Agbaminoja, commended Ecobank for its continued investment in Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
“By hosting this exhibition, Ecobank reaffirms its belief in the power of art and culture to drive economic development,” she said. “Creativity is not just an expression of identity; it’s a force that can reshape industries and spark innovation.”
Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Nigeria, described the exhibition as a model of cultural diplomacy, praising it for strengthening Franco-Nigerian ties.
“Supporting this exhibition in Lagos reflects our belief that culture is a bridge between nations,” he said. “It builds on the success of the Paris edition, celebrating collaboration and Fela’s enduring influence.”
Supported by the French Embassy in Nigeria, Ecobank, and other partners, Afrobeat Rebellion highlights Fela’s dual legacy as a musical pioneer and fearless advocate for social justice.
The opening night featured thrilling performances from Ezra Collective, Seun Kuti, and others, setting the tone for a season of artistic reflection inspired by Fela’s Afrobeat revolution.
Upcoming highlights include The Talks — a thought-leadership series featuring Yeni Kuti, Prof. Oyeronke Oyewumi, Falana, Ade Bantu, Minna Salami, and Kadaria Ahmed — and Kalakuta Cinema, curated by S16 Collective, showcasing films such as Music Is a Weapon, Mami Wata, Timbuktu, and Finding Fela.
For younger audiences, the Young Rebels’ Corner provides creative workshops for children aged 6–15, including Rebel Scrapbook, Jam Station, and Anikulapo Design Workshop.
Other programmes include Karatu Book Readings, Manifesto: The Weapon of the Future, Òrò Abamì Spoken Word Competition, and Dance for Freedom, a performance workshop by The Mud Art Company.
Open to the public, Afrobeat Rebellion invites visitors to experience Fela’s enduring spirit — a symbol of courage, creativity, and resistance — reflecting Ecobank’s belief that empowering art is key to transforming society.
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