Culture

Governor Fubara begins revitalisation of Port Harcourt tourist beach for Arts, Culture, and Tourism

Published

2 years ago

October 31, 2024

Governor Fubara initiates restoration of Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, aiming to revive it as a hub for arts, culture, and tourism in Rivers State.

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has taken significant steps toward restoring the long-neglected Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, aiming to transform it into a premier destination for arts, culture, and tourism.

During an inspection on Tuesday, Governor Fubara outlined his vision, which includes initial site improvements such as sandfilling swampy areas, and partnering with an experienced investor to manage and redevelop the site.

Also read: Rivers Announces 20-Day Event To Mark Fubara’s First-Year Anniversary

The Governor was accompanied by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Israel Ngbuelo, Ministry Permanent Secretary Ishmael Tomonialadieokuma, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, Alozie Nwala, who all underscored the importance of reviving this central tourist location.

“Revitalizing the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach aligns with our broader goal of restoring Rivers State to its former vibrancy,” Fubara stated.

“With newly acquired land, we’re set to expand the space, and with an investor who has both the capability and vision, this area will evolve into a modern tourist attraction.”

This ambitious project is expected to not only boost local tourism but also stimulate the economy by attracting both domestic and international visitors.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara encouraged local youth to support the redevelopment efforts.

He urged them to work alongside contractors and investors rather than hindering progress, emphasising that their cooperation is vital for creating a welcoming, modern destination that celebrates the heritage of Rivers State.

The rejuvenation of the Tourist Beach forms part of Governor Fubara’s broader vision to establish Rivers State as a prominent cultural and tourism hub in Nigeria.

By positioning the state as a go-to destination for visitors seeking scenic and peaceful getaways, the project is poised to enhance local quality of life while boosting economic prospects.

This revitalisation effort promises a renewed cultural space that will not only reflect Rivers State’s heritage but also showcase its modern aspirations.

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Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

2 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Mariam Balogun

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.

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

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.”

Also read: Five rising stars battle for 2026 Headies Next Rated

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.”