Culture
Lagos Govt partners stagecraft production on kurunmi play
Published
8 months agoon
By
Lanre
Lagos State Government on Monday expressed its readiness to partner with Stagecraft Studios and Film Production Ltd. to stage a play titled ‘Kurunmi’.
The decision of the Lagos State Government was revealed by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, during a press conference held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
She said the government is partnering with the production firm in staging Kurunmi in its bid to foster historical heritage and prevent African culture and traditions from going into extinction, as well as expose and awaken the consciousness of youths to the role of good leadership anywhere they find themselves.
Kurunmi is a play written by the late renowned author, Prof. Ola Rotimi, that explores the themes of collective political and military leadership, social change and development, responsible leadership, control and accountability.
Kurunmi, which is to be staged at Alliance Française on June 13 and 14 and at the Terra Kulture Arena on July 20 and 21, is directed by a renowned movie producer and actor, Mr. Oladapo Muyideen, popularly known as Lala. The stage play, which has 75 cast and crew members, will also be taken to the five IBILE divisions of Lagos State for the delight of residents.
Speaking during the press conference attended by the Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toyin Atekoja; and representatives of organisations sponsoring the Kurunmi stage play, Benson-Awoyinka, said the stage play speaks to the THEMES+ agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to revive and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Lagos and Africa.
Benson-Awoyinka pointed out that the cultural rebirth and reorientation much desired could happen faster through entertainment and arts, and that is why the Lagos State Government is partnering with the production firm on Kurunmi.
She said: “In line with the vision of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to make Lagos State the preferred destination for tourism, leisure, and business in Africa, I am honoured to present this captivating stage play, KÚRUNMÍ put together by Stagecraft Studios and Film Production.
“This play is a masterpiece that showcases our rich cultural heritage, steeped in tradition and history. It showcases the talents of our vibrant arts industry and the creativity of our theater practitioners.
“The play is a historical play that tells the story of a legendary Yoruba king, Kúrunmí, who embodied courage, wisdom, and leadership. The play masterfully weaves together elements of history, culture, and entertainment, making it a must-see for everyone.”
Speaking on why the Lagos State Government is partnering with Stagecraft Studios and Film Production Ltd. in staging Kurunmi, Benson-Awoyinka disclosed that “as the Commissioner of Tourism, I recognise the significance of arts and culture in promoting tourism and showcasing our state’s diversity. The play is an excellent representation of our cultural wealth, which I encourage everyone to experience.
“The world is changing rapidly, and cultures and traditions are fast losing steam to the world order. As Africans, we have a culture; we have our history. These two elements are most cherished and are a reminder of who we are as a people.
“It is on that basis that the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, threw its weight behind the production of Kúrunmí, the stage play. We know that the cultural rebirth and reorientation that we talk about can happen faster through entertainment and the arts. Therefore, by attending this play, you will not only be entertained but also gain a deeper understanding of our rich cultural heritage. The talented cast, stunning costumes, and impressive set design will transport you to a world of wonder and awe.
“We support the production of Kúrunmí because we understand the inherent importance and value that it would bring to our society, especially the numerous Lagosians that would go out to watch the play on stage. I urge all residents and visitors to join us in celebrating our cultural excellence by watching KÚRUNMí. Let us come together to support the arts and make our state a hub for cultural tourism.”
Also speaking, the Director of Kurunmi, Mr. Oladapo Muyideen; the Production Manager, Michelle Adegbola; and the Technical Director, Mr. Biodun Abe, commended the Lagos State Government for supporting and funding the project for cultural rebirth, especially among the GenZ youths.
Oladapo said Kurunmi is about promoting the Yoruba cultural heritage. “As people of different cultural backgrounds, there are ways the Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa do their things. So Kurunmi is taking us to the way we do things and the way we address issues. It is about reminding us of our heritage,” he said.
Adegbola said the reason for the play is about a leader—a legendary warrior who stood up for the tradition. He said stage play is a message for the youth that “no matter the level of technology, we should not forget our background. That is why we are showcasing the play to the public. Governor Sanwo-Olu had seen the good in our culture and we want everyone to connect with our culture.”
Adegbola also disclosed that whoever wanted to use Uber to get to Ikoyi to watch Kurunmi will enjoy 30 percent on Uber using Kurunmi as the code.
Speaking during the press conference, the Media and Insight Manager of Rite Food, Mr. Adedotun Ajibade; the Group Executive Director of Omnicon Media Group, Mr. Yinka Adebayo; the Events and Sponsorship Manager of TOLARAM Group, Miss Frankie Ohwo; and other partners, whose companies are partnering with Stagecraft Studios and Film Production Ltd in staging Kurunmi, said they are committed to the play because they believe strongly in it.
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Culture
FG to develop diaspora city to reconnect Nigerians abroad
Published
4 days agoon
February 10, 2025By
Lanre
The Federal Government is developing Diaspora City to help Nigerians abroad invest and reconnect with their roots, Minister Hannatu Musawa announces.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to develop *Diaspora City*, a tourism and investment hub aimed at reconnecting Nigerians abroad with their roots.
The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, **Hannatu Musawa**, made the disclosure on Monday in Abuja during the launch of *Motherland 2025*, an initiative celebrating Nigeria’s cultural heritage and economic potential.
According to Musawa, the project goes beyond tourism—it aims to strengthen economic ties between Nigeria and its diaspora while fostering cultural exchange and national development.
“Our vision extends beyond attracting global visitors; it is about ensuring that the creative and tourism sectors serve as critical tools to improve the lives of the Nigerian people,” she stated.
The *Motherland 2025* initiative is designed as a fully immersive cultural experience, featuring **state pavilions, exhibitions, and showcases** that highlight Nigeria’s innovation, business landscape, and cultural heritage.
A key component of the project is the creation of *Diaspora City*, which will serve as a **thriving tourism and investment hub** where members of the diaspora can seamlessly engage in economic activities, reconnect with their heritage, and settle in Nigeria.
“This year, we open our doors to the global diaspora, inviting them to immerse themselves in our rich traditions, explore investment opportunities, and witness the remarkable transformation unfolding across our nation,” Musawa added.
Chidinma Nwakwo, Managing Director of *Discover Motherland Africa*, described the initiative as a **transformative movement** aimed at deepening Nigeria’s connection with its diaspora while unlocking business and tourism opportunities.
“This is the beginning of a movement that not only reconnects Nigerians abroad with their roots but also fosters investment and cultural pride,” she said.
With *Motherland 2025* and the planned *Diaspora City*, Nigeria aims to position itself as the epicentre of **global Black and African culture, commerce, and community**.
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Culture
Governor Bassey Otu’s vision for Cross River: tourism, agriculture, digital economy
Published
1 week agoon
February 6, 2025By
Lanre
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, outlines his administration’s plans for economic growth, tourism development, food security, and digital transformation, emphasising shared prosperity and sustainability
Governor **Bassey Otu** has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic growth and tourism, particularly through the **2024 Calabar Carnival**, themed **”Shared Prosperity.”** Emphasising the need for **economic inclusivity**, he stated:
Also read: Cross River State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Abubakar Robert Ewa, Passes Away
> *“Unless there’s some equality of purpose in every society, there will be no peace… Shared prosperity is the key to achieving progress.”*
Despite **economic challenges**, Otu assured that the **Calabar Carnival** remains a **major cultural and economic event**, attracting investment and boosting local businesses.
Plans are also underway to **reintroduce the international segment** in the coming years, including a **diaspora band** to enhance global participation.
Tourism Development: Upgrading Cross River’s Attractions
Tourism remains central to Otu’s **economic blueprint**, with significant efforts being made to:
Upgrade **key tourism sites**
Enhance **hotel and transport infrastructure**
Train tourism professionals **locally and internationally**
Stabilise **product pricing** to encourage investment
The governor assured that **Obudu Ranch**, one of Nigeria’s premier resorts, is undergoing **a major restoration project** in partnership with **Marriott Hotels** and **international investors**.
*“We are bringing our tourism infrastructure to 21st-century standards, ensuring easy access to tourism sites and stabilising product prices,”* he said.
Tackling Hunger and Revamping Agriculture
Governor Otu has prioritised **food security**, acknowledging that agriculture was once **Nigeria’s economic backbone**. His administration is:
Conducting **soil mapping** to determine ideal crops
Launching a **5,000-hectare cassava farm pilot project**
Expanding **oil palm and cocoa farming**
Providing **microcredit schemes** for smallholder farmers
*“We are doing everything to revamp agriculture,”* Otu emphasised.
**Digital Economy: Training Youth for the Future**
Recognising the importance of **technology in economic transformation**, Otu is spearheading initiatives to:
Train **youth in digital skills**
Establish **technology incubation centres**
Integrate **agriculture with digital innovations**
Combat **cybercrime and ensure ethical tech practices**
*“The future lies in balancing digital advancements with agricultural productivity,”* he stated.
**Cross River’s Economic Future: A Bold Vision**
Governor Otu remains **optimistic about Nigeria’s economic reforms**, drawing from his experience in the **Senate’s Finance and Banking Committee**. He assured citizens that despite **current economic hardships**, positive changes will emerge.
With ambitious plans for **tourism, agriculture, and digital transformation**, Cross River is poised for **sustainable growth and economic prosperity**.
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Culture
Lagos State tourism commissioner discusses collaboration with Nigeria immigration service
Published
1 week agoon
February 5, 2025By
Lanre
Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, met with Mrs. Kemi Nandap, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, to discuss ways to improve the immigration process at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, paid a courtesy visit to the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs. Kemi Nandap, at her office in Abuja on Friday.
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During the meeting, both officials engaged in constructive discussions focused on fostering collaboration between the NIS and the Lagos State Government.
A primary area of concern was optimizing the immigration process at **Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA)**.
Both parties acknowledged the importance of simplifying entry procedures at the airport to enhance the overall experience for visitors.
They highlighted the critical role this would play in supporting the expected surge in tourism, particularly after the successful tourism campaigns of the fourth quarter of 2024.
Several strategies were explored to improve the immigration process, including:
– **Faster processing lanes** for international arrivals
– **Clearer communication** regarding visa-on-arrival policies
– **Enhanced training** for immigration personnel
The aim is to create a welcoming atmosphere that would encourage international travellers to see Lagos as a prime destination.
Both Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka and Mrs. Nandap agreed that a smooth and efficient immigration process is essential for solidifying Lagos’ position as a leading hub for cultural, artistic, and recreational tourism, contributing to the state’s economic growth and enhancing its global image.
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