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    Latoya, Jimi Solanke thrilled at EmuFest 2023

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    Folklore veteran musician, Uncle Jimi Solanke, and wife of the late legendary saxophonist, Orlando Julius, Latoya Aduke, and her Osun Ifokanbale Band, held sway and got the audience groovy to the sounds at the 14th Annual EniObanke Music Festival (Emu Fest), last Saturday, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The veterans were the cynosure of all eyes at the Ibadan leg of EMUfest as they thrilled the audience with the evergreen tunes.

    Latoya dished out ‘Love in Action’, ‘Oni Suru’, and ‘Aye Waka Le’ even as the audience sang and danced along to the timeless songs that have transcended culture, race, and bonded families.

    In the same vein, folklore expert, Uncle Jimi Solanke serenaded the audience at the music festival EmuFest with melodic songs associated with the cultural icon.

    Latoya Aduke, a reputable dancer in her usual way lighted up the event with her energetic dancing skills alongside her band.

    Speaking about the event, Latoya said, “Uncle Jimi is a legend. He can do no wrong with a mic and music. So many people were saying that they loved him since childhood and to be able to witness him live with their children is a blessing.

    “Beautiful Nubia always gives his all to his friends. They sing along to music with positive vibes which makes them proud to be Africans. I enjoyed the whole experience. I look forward to the 15th edition of EMUFEST,” she added.

    Festivals

    Vanuatu trade commission pledges investment for AI training at IPADA Initiative/Carnival 2024

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    IPADA Initiative 2024, Artificial Intelligence training, Vanuatu Trade Commission, African tourism, AI certification

    The upcoming IPADA Initiative/Carnival 2024 in Lagos has secured a major investment from the Vanuatu Trade Commission Ghana, pledging to train five million Africans in Artificial Intelligence certification, boosting Africa’s knowledge economy.

     

     

    The excitement surrounding the upcoming IPADA Initiative/Carnival 2024 continues to grow, with significant investments pouring in from corporations, groups, and individuals across the globe.

    A recent highlight came from the Vanuatu Trade Commission Ghana, which announced its commitment to investing in training over five million Africans in Artificial Intelligence (AI) certification over the next year.

     

    Also read: President Tinubu to host historic briefing on Ipada carnival 2024

     

    This investment aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of African professionals in a rapidly evolving global tech landscape.

    In partnership with the African Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB), the Vanuatu Trade Commission is spearheading an ambitious AI initiative, which will begin with the training of 5,000 participants during the IPADA Carnival in November.

    This training program, named *Business Unusual*, will kick off at the event and is designed to equip participants with critical AI skills that would otherwise cost $1,000 per individual.

    Upon completion of the program, participants will be granted a parity value of $100 and will be registered on a learning management system for continuous professional development and career opportunities.

    The AI training initiative is expected to have far-reaching economic impacts, opening doors for greater AI integration across Africa.

    This is part of a broader vision to empower Africans with high-value, knowledge-based skills, and contribute significantly to the continent’s economic transformation.

    The IPADA Initiative/Carnival 2024 is set to take place from November 29 to December 8 at the award-winning La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Lagos.

    It will feature cultural and business activities celebrating African heritage and the continent’s potential in tourism. The carnival will include music, dance, fashion, arts, beach polo, and traditional wrestling, offering a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and business networking.

    One of the event’s key goals is to bolster African tourism by attracting millions of tourists annually. The carnival and the AI certification program will help showcase Africa’s unique offerings, from its rich cultural heritage to its burgeoning tech sector.

    Projections suggest that by 2030, Africa could attract over 200 million tourists annually, boosting local economies and creating new business opportunities.

    The IPADA Initiative enjoys the backing of the Nigerian government, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu serving as the Grand Patron. Several state governments, including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti, have also pledged support.

    The event has garnered the backing of various corporate bodies, including the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), which represents private sector tourism operators.

    As the IPADA Carnival prepares to unfold, it represents a critical moment for Africa to unlock its potential in tourism and technology, bringing together local communities, businesses, and international stakeholders to drive economic growth and cultural exchange.

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    Festivals

    President Tinubu directs FCT to elevate Arts and Culture for unity and economic growth

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    Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture, ASOFEST 2024, FCT arts and culture, Tinubu tourism directive

    In a bid to enhance unity and economic growth in Abuja, President Tinubu has directed the FCT Administration to bolster the capital’s arts, culture, and tourism sectors. This aligns with his vision of celebrating Nigeria’s cultural heritage while creating jobs and skill opportunities.

     

    President Bola Tinubu has tasked the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration with advancing the arts, culture, and tourism sectors in Abuja to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among its residents.

    This announcement was made by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, represented by the Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat, Ibrahim Aminu, during the opening of the 2024 Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture (ASOFEST).

     

    Also read: Tinubu’s reforms: President scraps Niger Delta and sports ministries, merges tourism with culture

     

    Minister Wike underscored that the FCTA is committed to fostering Nigeria’s cultural heritage in alignment with President Tinubu’s vision, noting that arts and culture can drive economic growth, especially by creating skill acquisition and job opportunities for youth and women.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has specifically tasked us with developing and nurturing the arts, culture, and tourism sectors in the FCT, and we are fully committed to fulfilling this mandate,” he stated.

    Minister Wike announced that the FCT will host the 2024 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) within weeks, in collaboration with the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC).

    This event will unite stakeholders in the sector and showcase Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, reinforcing social cohesion.

    Permanent Secretary Olubumi Olowookere highlighted that ASOFEST is more than a celebration—it offers residents a chance to experience diverse cultural expressions, fostering understanding and unity across the capital’s communities.

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    21st Abuja international film festival celebrates cinematic excellence

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    Abuja International Film Festival 2024

    The 21st Abuja International Film Festival highlights exceptional talent with 1,524 submissions and prestigious awards for outstanding films.

     

     

    The 21st Abuja International Film Festival recently concluded, showcasing an impressive array of talent and creativity from around the globe.

    This year’s festival received a remarkable 1,524 film submissions, from which 70 films made it to the nomination list, demonstrating the growing interest in film production and storytelling.

     

    Also read: Abuja International Film Festival Kicks Off With Global Theme

     

    The standout feature of the festival was the acclaimed Russian film “Four Quarters,” which garnered significant attention by winning four awards, including the prestigious Golden Jury Award.

    This accolade underscored the film’s artistic merit and resonance with audiences and critics alike.

    Nigerian filmmakers also made a strong impression at the festival. Femi Adebayo and Stan Nze were jointly awarded Best Actor for their captivating performances in “Jagun Jagun” and “12 Hours,” respectively.

    The Best Actress award went to Tana Adelana for her role in “Tender Edges,” while Lum Norah was recognised for her outstanding performance in “Kismet.”

    The festival featured a total of 18 categories, including the coveted Audience Choice Award, which was claimed by the Nigerian film “Accroche.”

    The film “Kaka” also shone brightly, winning accolades for both Best Indigenous Film and Best Music Score, highlighting the diverse storytelling within Nigerian cinema.

    In addition to celebrating filmmakers, the festival honoured the Governors of Cross River and Lagos States, Senator Prince Bassey Otu and Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with the Distinguished Merit Award.

    This recognition highlighted their significant contributions to the entertainment industry and the promotion of film and culture in their respective states.

    Overall, the event served as a testament to the vibrant creativity and dedication within the Nigerian film sector, setting a promising stage for future cinematic endeavours.

    As filmmakers continue to explore new narratives and innovative techniques, the Abuja International Film Festival remains a crucial platform for showcasing their work and fostering cultural exchange.

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