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    The Royal Dynasty of Ile-Ife: Ancient rule and contemporary influence

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    THE dynamic city of Ile-Ife is located in the heart of the Yoruba community, where tradition gently intertwines with modernity, generating a complex tapestry of cultural resilience and dynamism. The historic Royal Dynasty exhibits a remarkable synthesis of ancestral traditions and modern innovations, managing the shifting sands of time with skill and imaginative leadership. We see a living monument to the Yoruba’s ability to preserve their respected traditions while embracing the kaleidoscope of current culture as we explore deeper into this interesting subject.

    The Royal Dynasty, an entity steeped in myth and history, is central to this confluence between the past and the present. It spans time, expressing the Yoruba civilization’s spiritual, political, and cultural heartbeat. These notable characters, led by the mythological Oduduwa, have shaped the region’s trajectory, masterfully managing conflicts and forging city-state unity.

    Today, the Royal Family has considerable power, spanning the fields of politics, governance, and the delicate art of conflict resolution. With its profound roots in spirituality and royalty, the dynasty remains a beacon of cultural preservation and creative enrichment, adept at balancing the complexities of tradition and modernity.

    The familial lineage advocates for the global spread of Yoruba history, encouraging scholarly pursuits and sustaining the artistic endeavours that have come to define the community. Their multifaceted functions as keepers of culture and tradition go beyond simple stewardship. They serve as cultural envoys, embodying goodness and catalyzing advancement in their sphere.

    Their active participation in the global Yoruba diaspora demonstrates a tenacious commitment to preserving tradition and embracing modern innovations. The spirit of innovation coexists with regard to tradition in Ile-Ife, producing a community in which educational endeavours blend effortlessly with the wealth of information passed down through generations. Curricula that integrate contemporary approaches with ancient knowledge and values are prioritized by local institutions, providing younger generations with an essential connection to their rich cultural past.

    To truly grasp the Royal Dynasty’s visionary position, one must evaluate its exceptional capacity to adapt to evolving governance and economic advancement landscapes. Traditional rulers, such as the illustrious Ooni of Ife, have accepted the dynamic nature of their positions in modern society, actively participating in talks with government officials and policymakers to handle today’s difficulties. This shift from traditional authority to a consultative and diplomatic posture indicates a profound metamorphosis in which leaders use their symbolic power to promote the welfare of their constituents.

    This first look into the colourful world of Ile-Ife and its Royal Dynasty sets the tone for a deeper dive into the community’s unique efforts to preserve its cultural heritage in the face of globalization and modernization. As we progress, we will uncover the intricate strategies used to foster economic development, embrace technology, and cultivate inclusivity and dialogue within the community, creating a rich tapestry of a society that thrives at the intersection of tradition and modernity.

    As we move deeper into the effervescent terrain of Ile-Ife, we find ourselves amid a developing landscape in which the Royal Dynasty spearheads projects promoting a delicate yet potent synergy between time-honoured rituals and the rising features of modernity. It is a colourful tapestry in which each thread tells a story of tenacity, inventiveness, and the collective desire to construct a future that honours its heritage while excitedly embracing the novelties of the present.

    As the modern era unfolds, the Royal Dynasty acts with forethought, attempting to merge the rich tale of the past with the bright palette of contemporary culture. As a result, economic development emerges as the fundamental axis around which this harmonic integration revolves. Ile-Ife’s leaders passionately support the development of local industries, craftsmanship, and cultural tourism, activities that serve as bulwarks for preserving traditional customs and open up profitable avenues for the community’s economic growth. Promoting long-term economic endeavours becomes a rallying cry for the community.

    An intentional transition occurs in which entrepreneurial initiatives combine traditional knowledge and traditions to construct a route of economic progress with the essence of cultural legacy at its centre. As a result, the Royal Dynasty serves as a beacon, guiding the community toward economic viability while preserving the unique fabric of its traditions.

    However, the cultural pulse of Ile-Ife is most alive during the festive congregations that mark the calendar. These festivals and events transform into arenas where the traditional and the contemporary collide, providing a pleasant convergence of songs, choreographies, and artistic expressions that entice spectators from local and worldwide landscapes. It presents a rich cultural reservoir that has been effortlessly blended with modern forms of entertainment, conserving the essence of tradition and paving the path for enhanced cultural exchange and revenue-generating through tourism.

    This innovative method goes beyond mere celebration, unfolding as a strategy to strengthen the community’s economy, allowing the vivid exhibition of local artistic prowess to fascinate audiences, thus producing a lively hub for cultural tourism. The fusion of traditional and contemporary components in these celebrations sustains and perpetuates cultural practices while creating opportunities for economic sustenance and progress.

    In this technologically advanced day, the officials of Ile-Ife realize technology’s potential as a powerful ally in their goal of cultural preservation and modernization. Websites and social media networks morph into tools for precisely protecting and distributing cultural narratives, folklore, and traditions, and the digital sphere becomes a vivid canvas.

    This digital embrace not only helps to preserve the rich cultural legacy but also helps to establish important ties with younger generations, who are known for their ability to navigate the internet terrain. Furthermore, the Royal Dynasty encourages an environment conducive to community interaction and dialogue. Developing forums that allow for open interactions between traditional leaders, community members, and youth is a key undertaking. These forums foster a sense of collective ownership and mutual accountability, fostering a community united in its purpose to preserve cultural traditions while navigating the difficulties of modern life.

    As we approach the end of this voyage, we find ourselves at a crossroads where hope for a successful future meets reverence for a storied past. A future in which the Royal Dynasty’s initiatives guarantee the preservation of a rich cultural history and the lively blossoming of a society that is inclusive, progressive, and profoundly based on its tradition. A story that exemplifies Ile-Ife’s indomitable character, ready to pave a path into the future while carrying the flame of tradition aloft and blazing the path of modernity with wisdom and elegance.

    Navigating the well-worn roads of Ile-Ife, there’s an unmistakable sense of legacy pervading the dynamic society organized by the Royal Dynasty. As caretakers of a vast cultural legacy, they must balance the rich traditions with contemporary advances, assuring the Yoruba civilization’s continued survival. This careful balancing effort has established them as powerful navigators in a dynamic world that oscillates continually between preservation and advancement.

    The beginnings of the Royal Dynasty can be traced back to a tapestry densely woven with mythical and historical threads epitomized by legendary heroes like Oduduwa. This great lineage has not only had deep spiritual and political ramifications but has also facilitated conflict settlement amongst city-states, fostering stability and togetherness within the community. This foundation of historical significance creates the platform for a future marked by both reverence for the past and a forward-thinking attitude to modern challenges.

    By accepting its duty as cultural envoys, the Royal Dynasty broadened its range of influence to include the varied domains of politics, governance, and dispute resolution. They actively promote the spread of Yoruba’s legacy globally, acting as benefactors and catalysts for community development. Their interests go beyond preserving traditions, diving deeply into pathways that enable significant contributions to the scholarly and creative domains, and constructing a rich narrative that resonates across generations.

    Their interaction with the worldwide Yoruba community demonstrates resilience and adaptability, demonstrating their unshakable dedication to preserving traditions while embracing the benefits of modernization. This bilateral approach improves the quality of life for Ile-Ife residents and promotes economic progress, setting the path for a wealthy future marked by cultural richness and modern sensibilities.

    As they negotiate this complicated route, the leaders serve as beacons of hope, capable of reconciling and integrating traditional values with contemporary ideals. It’s a hopeful road plan, with the leaders assuming positions as cultural, spiritual, and communal stalwarts who are passionately involved in the well-being of their constituents.

    Their diplomatic efforts, particularly in conflict resolution, support regional stability and generate a peaceful climate conducive to growth and development. Looking ahead, the Royal Dynasty sees a path profoundly rooted in the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity. Their plan involves fostering educational efforts, implementing adaptable government models, promoting economic success, and capitalizing on technological advancements.

    These efforts are reinforced by their active engagement with the community, which fosters a dialogic space where voices converge to form a narrative that reflects both the rich history and the current dynamics. The Royal Dynasty is a dramatic example of cultural endurance and flexibility in this grand narrative. The Yoruba culture’s rich traditions, deeply established in its historic history, demonstrate a robust potential to flourish in the modern period. It is a living witness to a civilization that has successfully navigated time complexities, producing a rich tapestry that will reverberate with future generations. This enduring history strengthens the cultural character of the Yoruba community, ensuring its dynamic representation locally and globally.

    Finally, when the sun sets over Ile-Ife’s colourful landscapes, one can almost hear a harmonic symphony of the past chatting with the present, produced by a Royal Dynasty that epitomizes both the wisdom of predecessors and the dynamic pulse of modernity. This complex dance between old and modern is at the centre of a story that promises to preserve a rich cultural past and a bright, wealthy future distinguished by peace, prosperity, and a deep sense of communal unity. Through their efforts, Yoruba culture’s dynamic and relevant history promises to illuminate future generations’ paths, serving as a beacon of hope in an ever-changing world yet remaining profoundly anchored in its past.

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    Nigeria launches digital museum to preserve cultural heritage

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    Nigeria digital museum cultural heritage

    Nigeria collaborates with IHS Nigeria to launch a digital museum, showcasing cultural heritage globally and promoting sustainable growth.

     

    Nigeria is embracing digital innovation to preserve its cultural heritage through a transformative collaboration between IHS Nigeria, the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), and the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACTCE).

    This partnership aims to establish a digital museum that showcases Nigeria’s rich historical artifacts, artworks, and cultural monuments globally.

     

    Also read: Culturati Festival 2024: empowering SMEs and boosting Lagos’ economy through culture

     

    The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Digital Culture Initiative led by Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa.

    The museum, the first major project under this initiative, leverages cutting-edge technology to provide virtual access to Nigeria’s cultural treasures.

    It will serve as a vital resource for students, researchers, and enthusiasts worldwide, fostering education, sustainability, and innovation.

     

    Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa emphasised the project’s significance:

    “This collaboration positions Nigeria as a global leader while ensuring the preservation of our cultural legacy. It reflects our commitment to innovation, global partnerships, and sustainable advancement of our creative industries.”

     

    IHS Nigeria, a leader in shared communications infrastructure with operations across 10 countries, brings its expertise to the project. CEO Mohamad Darwish highlighted the partnership’s importance:
    “We aim to create a lasting legacy that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, fostering education and sustainability.”

    Olugbile Holloway, Director General of NCMM, added:
    “This digital museum will engage younger audiences and adapt to global trends. It ensures our heritage remains accessible while providing a platform for learning and cultural appreciation.”

    The museum will host virtual exhibitions, making Nigeria’s cultural history accessible to a global audience. It marks a bold step in safeguarding national heritage while advancing sustainable growth in the creative sector.

    This initiative not only preserves Nigeria’s past but also enhances its global cultural presence, reinforcing the nation’s leadership in heritage digitisation.

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    Culture

    NAFEST 2024: connecting cultures and boosting Nigeria’s creative economy

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    NAFEST 2024 Connected Culture

    NAFEST 2024 unites Nigeria’s diversity, fostering unity and showcasing rich cultural heritage for global recognition and economic growth.

     

     

    The 36th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) commenced in Abuja on November 22, 2024, with a renewed focus on fostering unity and leveraging Nigeria’s cultural diversity for economic growth.

    Organised by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, this year’s festival, themed “Connected Culture,” runs until November 30.

     

    Also read: NAFEST 2024 To Hold In FCT

     

    Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, represented by Dr Shaibu Husseini, highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to nurturing the arts and culture sector to enhance its revenue-generating capacity.

    She emphasised that Nigeria’s cultural richness and resilience present a unique opportunity for growth, urging citizens to embrace unity and collaboration.

    First held in 1970 to promote national integration after the civil war, NAFEST remains a vital platform for celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.

    Obi Asika, the NCAC Director-General, described this year’s edition as the most innovative yet.

    He noted that the festival’s revamped approach seeks to broaden its audience base, including the Nigerian diaspora, and unlock the economic potential of the nation’s cultural assets.

    “Nigeria’s culture is an asset that can be monetised and made profitable. What binds us as Nigerians is far greater than what divides us,” Asika remarked.

    Asika’s extensive background in the media and entertainment industries—including founding Storm 360, a key player in Nigeria’s music scene—underscores his vision for merging cultural heritage with economic development.

    The festival’s opening ceremony featured a vibrant parade of cultural dance performances by contingents from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Adorned in traditional attire, dancers showcased unique moves that reflected their heritage, symbolising the unity in diversity that defines NAFEST.

    Programmes during the nine-day event include arts and crafts exhibitions, music and dance performances, and discussions on enhancing global recognition of Nigerian culture.

    Bayelsa State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Iti Orugbani, praised the federal government’s renewed focus on positioning Nigeria’s creative industry within the global value chain.

    Participants like Saaniyol Akiga of Benue State’s Council for Arts and Culture expressed excitement about the festival’s new direction.

    “This initiative to ensure global recognition of NAFEST is timely and necessary,” Akiga said, adding that Benue’s contingent aims to uphold their tradition of excellence.

    With NAFEST 2024, the Federal Government seeks to not only celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage but also harness its potential for driving economic growth.

    By re-tuning its art and culture sector, the government aims to establish Nigeria as a global hub for creative and cultural excellence.

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    Culture

    The Benin Art Fair: redefining Edo’s artistic and cultural legacy

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    Benin Art Fair Edo culture

    The Benin Art Fair, a 10-day celebration of Edo’s art and culture, reclaims the region’s prominence in the global creative scene this November.

     

    In a bid to rewrite the narrative surrounding Edo State and spotlight its rich artistic and cultural heritage, The Benin Art Fair (TBAF) is set to take centre stage in Benin City from November 29 to December 8.

    The 10-day art festival, themed “Homage to the Red City”, promises a vibrant showcase of Edo State’s traditional and contemporary creative brilliance.

     

    Also read: Afropolis Festival 2024: global celebration of arts and culture in Lagos

     

    Held at Abstract Backyard, 33 Aiguobasimwin Crescent, G.R.A., Benin City, TBAF aims to re-establish Edo State as a premier arts and culture destination in Nigeria and Africa.

    The event is a dynamic platform celebrating the state’s artistic legacy while fostering innovation among its traditional and avant-garde artists.

    Director of The Benin Art Fair, Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi, emphasised the fair’s mission to challenge negative stereotypes associated with Edo State, such as violence, human trafficking, and other social vices.

    Instead, TBAF will shine a spotlight on the state’s profound cultural contributions and establish its position on the global arts map.

    “We want to rejuvenate Edo’s allure by showcasing its talent in traditional art and the international creative industries. This fair is a restoration process, placing Edo’s artistic and cultural sites in their rightful place on the global tourism map,” said Ajueshi.

    The long-term goal of the fair, curated by Mr James Irabor, is to preserve and promote the cultural and artistic identity of Edo State. Ajueshi added that the event would create a lasting legacy, celebrating Edo’s history while encouraging investment in its cultural preservation.

     

    The fair will feature a diverse array of activities, including:

    • Antiques and cultural showcases highlighting Edo’s traditional art forms.
    • Contemporary art exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
    • Live wood sculpting and performance art displays.
    • Discussions and workshops with renowned artists like Dr Bruce Onobrakpeya and Enotie Ogbebor.
    • Panel discussions on topics such as art education, cultural preservation, and photography’s role in history.
    • Benin Art Fair Concert Night, featuring Edo music legends.

     

    This year’s fair is proudly supported by a host of sponsors, including Hyde Energy, Coronation, and the Edo State Government.

    The Benin Art Fair aspires to position Edo State as a central player in the international art scene. According to Ajueshi, the event will generate revenue for the state while enhancing its reputation as a cultural hub.

    “This festival is not just about celebration; it’s about evolution—transforming Edo into a cornerstone of the Nigerian art subsector and a major contributor to global cultural conversations,” he noted.

    As Edo’s art and culture come alive this November, The Benin Art Fair represents a significant step toward reclaiming the state’s rightful place as a beacon of creativity and heritage in Africa and beyond.

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