Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu lauded the return of the vibrant Lagos Fanti Carnival as a powerful reconnection to the city’s cultural roots and a celebration of unity

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has enthusiastically welcomed the return of the historic Lagos Fanti Carnival, describing it as a radiant celebration of culture, colour, and community that has rekindled the spirit of Lagos.

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Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of the festival, stating, “more than a celebration, [it is] a powerful reconnection to our roots and a revival of a treasured heritage.”

He highlighted the carnival’s three major showcases: the Afro-Brazilian Food Fair, a Heritage Art Exhibition, and a vibrant Grand Parade, all of which contributed to the day’s splendour.

Expressing his delight at the overwhelming turnout, the Governor noted that the carnival successfully fostered unity and collective pride among Lagosians. He remarked, “Today, the streets of Lagos Island transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colour, rhythm, and expressions of community.”

Tracing its origins back to the 1800s, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the Fanti Carnival draws significant influence from Afro-Brazilian returnees who brought with them samba rhythms, ornate costumes, and architectural brilliance that have profoundly shaped the cultural identity of Lagos Island.

Today, we were part of something truly special, the return of the Lagos Fanti Carnival. It wasn’t just a celebration; it was a powerful reconnection to our roots, a revival of a cultural legacy that has shaped who we are,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu.

“The Fanti Carnival, with roots dating back to the 1800s, was enriched by Afro-Brazilian returnees who brought not only samba beats and intricate costumes but also architectural artistry,” he stated. “Today, we experienced the return of this historic event and the unique cultural identity of Lagos Island.”

This year’s exceptional carnival featured a diverse range of attractions, including an Afro-Brazilian Food Showcase, a Heritage Art Exhibition, and the grand parade.

Attendees were treated to captivating performances by local musicians and dancers, as well as cultural groups showcasing traditional masquerades and energetic samba-inspired drum ensembles.

Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by saying, “It was an absolute pleasure to see so many people come together to embrace the spirit of unity, resilience, and joy that the Fanti Carnival embodies.”

A documentary chronicling the life and global impact of Nigerian music icon Wizkid, titled ‘Love Live Lagos,’ is set to premiere at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival in June 2025

A compelling documentary exploring the extraordinary life and career of Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, globally recognized as Wizkid, is slated to premiere at the esteemed Tribeca Film Festival.

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Titled Love Live Lagos, the film offers an in-depth look at Wizkid’s remarkable journey from a celebrated Nigerian music artist to an international phenomenon whose influence has paved the way for African musicians on the global stage.

Love Live Lagos is scheduled for screening at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 6, 7, and 11, 2025, promising audiences an intimate portrayal of the artist’s ascent.

The documentary features insightful interviews with key individuals who have played pivotal roles in Wizkid’s journey. These include the legendary five-time Grammy-nominated Afrobeat pioneer Femi Kuti, Wizkid’s manager and partner Jada Pollock, his long-term manager Sunday Are, Julia Adenuga, and Seni Saraki. Their perspectives offer a unique and personal glimpse into the support system that has shaped Wizkid’s illustrious career.

Directed by Karam Gill, Love Live Lagos is being lauded as a powerful narrative that effectively showcases Wizkid’s meteoric rise to global stardom and his profound impact on how Africa is perceived and heard on a global scale through his music.

Adding another layer of engagement for festival attendees, Wizkid and director Karam Gill are scheduled to host a discussion at the festival. During this session, the Nigerian megastar will share personal insights and reflections on his remarkable career trajectory.

This significant project marks Wizkid’s return to film-related endeavors, following the release of a short film five years prior to promote the deluxe version of his Grammy-nominated album, Made in Lagos.

Karam Gill’s documentary further solidifies Wizkid’s enduring legacy, placing him alongside other iconic African musicians such as Fela Kuti and William Onyeabor, whose impactful careers have also been immortalized through film.

Nigeria confirms its readiness to host the 68th UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) meeting in Abuja from June 11-13, 2025, focusing on sustainable tourism and innovation

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially confirmed its preparedness to host the 68th meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) in Abuja from June 11 to 13, 2025.

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The significant event, themed “Boosting the Social Impact and Education in Tourism through Innovation, AI, and the Creative Industries,” aims to foster sustainable tourism development and enhance cultural exchange across the African continent.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr Hannatu Musa Musawa, conveyed Nigeria’s assurance during a courtesy visit from a two-person team representing the United Nations Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) in Abuja on Tuesday.

Minister Musawa expressed Nigeria’s enthusiasm to host this prestigious gathering, emphasizing the nation’s rich and diverse cultural heritage and its considerable tourism potential.

“We are excited to host this important event and showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential,” Minister Musawa stated. “We look forward to working closely with the UN Tourism and other stakeholders to make this event a resounding success.”

A statement released by the Minister’s Senior Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Nneka Anibeze, revealed that the meeting will convene key stakeholders from across the African continent to engage in discussions on strategic policies, explore emerging trends within the tourism sector, and foster crucial collaborations aimed at advancing tourism’s vital role in sustainable development.

Furthermore, a dedicated technical workshop focusing on innovation and artificial intelligence will be conducted during the meeting. This workshop is designed to build the capacity of local teams in effectively leveraging new technologies to maximize the potential of the tourism sector.

Earlier in her address, the UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa, Elicia Grandcourt, expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s ability to successfully host the event, citing the country’s positive track record in hosting previous high-level meetings.

The upcoming event is also expected to provide significant benefits for Nigerian youth by creating empowerment opportunities through the exploration and application of AI and innovation within the tourism and creative industries.