Events

Minister visits, describes Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort as Nigeria’s hidden gem

Published

2 years ago

April 19, 2024

Describing it as one of the most charming places in Nigeria, the Tourism Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to partner with the private sector to continue supporting of tourism at iconic locations like Ikogosi Resort to ensure it becomes a global tourist hotspot.

“I was so impressed when I drove into Ikogosi, the foliage, the greenery, the whole place is charming and enticing,” Ade-John remarked, highlighting the resort’s excellent hiking trails and urging Nigerians to embrace hiking clubs for exploring the country’s natural beauty.

During her visit to Ekiti state, Ade-John was warmly received by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who joined her on a tour of the springs on Easter Sunday. “Every community (such as Ikogosi) has a story, and we want to share those stories across the land,” Ade-John shared with journalists during her visit.

“Real tourists don’t care much about hotels and airports. They want to get to where the action is. It is hiking trails such as this that enable them to connect with the communities in a way that they won’t have anywhere else.” She underscored the significance of community stories in tourism, emphasizing that authentic experiences like hiking trails allow tourists to connect with local communities in meaningful ways.

Expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of both federal and state governments, Lanre Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, operators of Ikogosi Resort and Conference Centre, highlighted the tourism potential of Nigeria.

He cited the story of Ikogosi since its acquisition by Glocient Hospitality, as a prime example of how tourism can drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, attract foreign investment while transforming local communities.

He said, “Under the leadership of our chairman Niyi John Olajide and with the support of the federal and state government, we will continue to invest in the hospitality sector, creating jobs and adding value to the communities where we operate.”

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Rechael Okonkwo’s Carnival Brings Free Healthcare to 5,000 Residents

Published

2 weeks ago

September 2, 2026

Mariam Balogun

Rechael Okonkwo’s carnival provided free healthcare to over 5,000 Nsukka residents, alongside support for widows and children (more…)

Culture

WAKE UP! Art Exhibition Returns for a Second Act

Published

3 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.”