Events

Sanwo-Olu celebrates the resounding return of the Lagos Fanti Carnival

Published

1 year ago

April 22, 2025

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.

Also read: Lagos State announces return of vibrant Fanti Carnival in partnership with Brazil

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.”

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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.”