Category Archives: ART & CULTURE

Chinese Film and Television Month Kicks Off in Nigeria

A Platform for Cultural Exchange

Mr. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of film and television as tools for fostering understanding between countries.

He made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Chinese Film and Television Broadcast Month in Nigeria, organized by StarTimes Nigeria and hosted by the China Cultural Center.

Showcasing Chinese Culture

During the event, Mr. Jianxing highlighted the initiative’s aim to showcase the charm of Chinese culture and the achievements of contemporary China to the Nigerian audience.

He noted that both China and Nigeria have rich histories and vibrant cultures, and that cultural exchange is essential for strengthening bilateral relations. “We hope our Nigerian friends will gain a deeper understanding of China and appreciate the profound friendship between our peoples,” he stated.

Government Support for Cultural Initiatives

Patricia Roberts, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Art, Culture, Creative Economy and Tourism, represented by Zainab Ali-Biu, affirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to fostering cultural exchanges.

She emphasized the significance of sharing stories and values through the film and television industry, which provides unique opportunities for connection between artists from both nations.

Strengthening Partnerships

Salihu Dembos, Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), echoed the importance of the event in highlighting the collaborative stories and cultural narratives between China and Africa. He stated that initiatives like these help build bridges of understanding and mutual respect, enhancing cultural and economic bonds.

Celebrating Shared Narratives

Mr. Joshua Wang, CEO of NTA-Star TV Network, expressed optimism for the deepening of cultural exchange and cooperation through the two-month program. He noted that the festival celebrates the friendship between China and Nigeria and highlights their shared appreciation for storytelling.

Festival Details

The Chinese Film and Television Month will run from November to December, featuring approximately 35 Chinese films, TV series, and documentaries available across various television and online platforms. These works will reflect diverse aspects of Chinese cultural life, capturing the emotions and aspirations of the Chinese people.

Ijakadi Festival 2024: A Cultural Catalyst for Economic Growth in Offa

Festival Dedicated to Economic Development

Aare Waheed Olagunju, the Chairman of the Media and Communications Committee for the annual Ijakadi Festival in Offa, Kwara State, has announced that this year’s festival will focus on leveraging culture to drive economic growth in the community.

The event is scheduled to take place from December 26 to 28, 2024, under the theme “Cultural and Creative Sectors: A Vehicle for Economic Growth and Development.”

Commitment to Cultural Preservation

Olagunju emphasized the organizers’ commitment to building on the momentum established by Offa indigenes during last year’s festival. He expressed confidence that the theme of this year’s celebration aligns with their mission to utilize cultural initiatives for sustainable community development. “This year’s theme aptly captures our drive to sustain the momentum started last year,” he stated.

Festival Schedule and Highlights

The festival will kick off on December 26, 2024, with inter-denominational prayers led by Sheikh Muideen Abdulsallam, the Chief Imam of Offa, alongside the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Offa. The prayers will commence at 10:00 a.m.

Following the prayers, Dr. Lawal Muhammed will deliver an annual lecture titled “Evolution of Our Offa Compound Names as a Means of Preserving and Promoting Our Cultural Heritage” at the Olofa’s palace. The day will also feature cultural performances, including Rara Sisun and Omosunwo.

The second day, December 27, will showcase a traditional expo in the morning, highlighting traditional attires, drumming, and hairdo styles. The day will culminate in a beauty pageant at Olofa’s palace, followed by a musical concert at the Offa Descendants Union (ODU) open ground, running from 9:00 p.m. until dawn.

The festival will conclude on December 28, 2024, with a grand finale at the Offa Township Stadium, featuring various cultural displays, including symbolic wrestling led by Kabiyesi. The event will be rounded off with a royal dinner at the palace of the Kabiyesi, celebrating Offa’s rich cultural heritage.

The Ijakadi Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration that not only showcases the cultural richness of Offa but also underscores the potential of the cultural and creative sectors in fostering economic development. As the community prepares for this significant event, the commitment to cultural preservation and economic growth remains at the forefront of the festival’s mission.

VON/Trendznigeria

Davido and Phyno Lead Star-Studded Tribute to Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III

High-profile visit to Olu of Warri highlights blend of traditional and modern influence

In a remarkable display of cultural pride and national unity, several of Nigeria’s most prominent entertainment stars, including music sensation Davido, rapper Phyno Fino, socialite Cubana Chiefpriest, and comedian AY, gathered at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri. The visit took place at the royal residence in Delta State, signaling the continued significance of traditional rulers in contemporary Nigerian society.

A Historic Moment for the Itsekiri Kingdom

The star-studded event marked a significant occasion for the Itsekiri Kingdom, a region rich in cultural heritage and known for its longstanding traditions. Under the leadership of Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Warri Kingdom has seen a resurgence of national attention, and the presence of these entertainment icons only further cemented its relevance in modern times.

His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III is highly regarded for his efforts to maintain and promote the cultural values of the Itsekiri people while simultaneously fostering connections with Nigeria’s rapidly evolving entertainment and social media-driven society.

Bridging the Gap Between Tradition and Modernity

The presence of celebrities such as Davido and Phyno at the event reflects a growing trend of collaboration between Nigeria’s entertainment industry and traditional institutions. The visit is not only a show of respect for the Olu of Warri’s authority but also a celebration of the rich cultural legacy that the Itsekiri Kingdom holds.

Ogiame Atuwatse III, who has become a prominent symbol of modern leadership in the region, has successfully bridged the gap between Nigeria’s deeply rooted traditions and its vibrant, contemporary society. His reign continues to emphasize the importance of cultural pride and the role that traditional rulers play in the nation’s development.

Social Media Buzz and National Attention

Social media was abuzz with hashtags such as #Itsekiri, #Warri, and #OluOfWarri, as images and videos from the event circulated widely, garnering praise and sparking conversations about the continued relevance of Nigeria’s traditional leadership. The celebrity endorsements and their engagement with indigenous traditions further highlighted how modern influencers and artists are increasingly embracing their roots.

The event became a symbol of unity, showcasing how Nigeria’s entertainment elites are helping to strengthen ties with the country’s cultural institutions, bringing heritage and contemporary culture together in the national spotlight.

Cultural Legacy Meets Contemporary Influence

This gathering at the Warri palace was not just a moment of celebration but a reflection of how Nigeria’s traditional values are being embraced by a younger, more modern generation. With leaders like Ogiame Atuwatse III at the helm, the cultural heritage of the Itsekiri people remains a point of pride for both the local community and the wider nation.

The visit exemplified the merging of past and present, bringing attention to the Warri Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural legacy while staying relevant in today’s fast-paced, entertainment-driven world. Through events like these, traditional leadership continues to thrive, even as Nigeria’s entertainment and social landscape evolve.

Nigeria to Host 2024 International Arts and Crafts Expo

NCAC Unveils Plans for Major Cultural Event in Abuja

The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), led by Director General Mr. Obi Asika, has announced that Nigeria will host the 2024 International Arts and Crafts (INAC) Expo. The event is set to take place in Abuja, the nation’s capital, and will celebrate Nigeria’s cultural diversity and artistic talent while promoting national unity and economic growth.

Pre-INAC Dinner for Diplomats and Stakeholders

In preparation for the highly anticipated Expo, the NCAC will organize a Pre-INAC dinner for members of the Diplomatic Community and other key stakeholders. Scheduled for October 10, 2024, in Abuja, this event will serve as a prelude to the 17th edition of the INAC Expo, which will run from November 18 to November 30, 2024, concurrently with the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) at the Arts and Crafts Village.

Theme and Highlights of INAC 2024

Themed “Networking Nigerian Crafts to the World,” INAC 2024 aims to showcase Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage and offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. According to Mr. Asika, the Expo will feature a diverse range of artistic creations, including:

Textiles -Handwoven fabrics, Ankara prints, and intricate embroidery

Sculpture -Wooden carvings, metalwork, and ceramics

Painting -Contemporary and traditional styles

Jewelry- Beads, silver, and gold pieces

Pottery – Functional and decorative items

Photography -Artistic and documentary imagery

These displays will provide a platform for artisans to connect with buyers, collectors, and industry professionals. In addition, visitors will be treated to live performances, workshops, and cultural demonstrations that celebrate Nigeria’s vibrant artistic heritage.

Economic Impact and Cultural Significance

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Asika highlighted the Expo’s significance: “The 17th edition of INAC will continue to elevate Nigerian arts and culture on the global stage. It’s an incredible opportunity for our artisans to showcase their talent and creativity, and connect with a wider audience.”

Mr. Asika emphasized that the event underscores NCAC’s commitment to fostering economic empowerment, growth, and national unity. INAC 2024 is expected to be a landmark event, reflecting NCAC’s dedication to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

MTN Nigeria Launches ‘See Naija’ Platform to Promote Nigerian Tourism

New Digital Initiative Aims to Showcase Nigeria’s Cultural and Natural Beauty

MTN Nigeria has announced plans to promote the country’s rich tourism assets globally through a new digital platform called “See Naija.” The platform, unveiled on Thursday by Ugonwa Nwoye, Chief Customer Relations Officer and Acting Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, aims to highlight Nigeria’s vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and creative talent.

Highlighting Nigeria’s Cultural and Natural Wonders

The “See Naija” platform is a digital tourism initiative designed to challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about Nigeria. According to Nwoye, the platform will serve as a curated online space, offering users the opportunity to discover Nigeria’s diverse culture through stunning natural landscapes, colorful festivals, and traditional lifestyles.

Nwoye highlighted iconic locations such as the Great Oyo Empire, Gashaka Gumti Park in Taraba state, Gurara Waterfalls in Niger state, Mount Patti in Lokoja, Agbokim Waterfall, and the Osun Sacred Grove as key attractions to be featured on the platform.

‘See Naija’ Competition Encourages Creative Participation

Alongside the platform, MTN has launched the ‘See Naija’ competition, which invites Nigerians to rediscover the beauty of their country through a creative challenge. Participants, including content creators, photographers, and videographers, are encouraged to share photos and videos that reflect Nigeria’s culture, landscapes, and traditions using the hashtag #SeeNaijawithMTN.

To enter, participants are required to submit a 1-2 minute video showcasing captivating locations in their cities. Submissions can be shared on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Facebook, or YouTube, tagging @mtnng and their respective locations.

Campaign to Run for Three Months

The ‘See Naija’ campaign, which began on World Tourism Day on September 17, will run for three months. MTN hopes the initiative will inspire more Nigerians to showcase the hidden gems of their country and, in turn, promote tourism and local talent.

MTN’s Commitment to Cultural Diversity

MTN Nigeria sees the ‘See Naija’ initiative as part of its broader commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and socio-economic growth. Nwoye emphasized Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, with over 500 languages and 300 ethnic groups contributing to its identity.

“Nigeria’s art, crafts, and traditions, from the Nok civilization to the Benin Empire, form the core of our national identity,” Nwoye said. “By telling our own stories and sharing the beauty of our country, we can reshape the narrative about Nigeria and show the world what makes it truly special.”

MTN’s ‘See Naija’ invites Nigerians to be part of this storytelling, showcasing everything from bustling markets in Lagos to the stunning landscapes of Calabar and the vibrant festivals in Kano. Through this initiative, MTN seeks to reveal the untapped beauty and diversity of Nigeria to the world.

Tourism Minister Pledges Collaboration with Nigeria Association of Tour Operators

Ministry to Promote Nigeria’s Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Abuja, Thursday – The Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, has committed to partnering with the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) to enhance the promotion of Nigeria’s rich tourism sites, cultural heritage, and hospitality offerings. During a meeting with NATOP President, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha, and her executive team, the minister expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, aiming to showcase Nigeria’s diverse landscape and cultural heritage to both domestic and international audiences.

Supporting Tourism Growth

Mrs. Ade-John emphasized the importance of NATOP’s efforts in exploring and packaging Nigeria’s tourism assets. She assured the association of her ministry’s support, stating, “We shall partner together, and I do assure you of my ministry’s support and encouragement. Going forward, we will include your association in our activities.” The minister also requested NATOP provide a list of accredited members and promised to involve the association in the review and enhancement of the country’s tourism policy.

Funding Challenges and Future Plans

Addressing financial constraints, Mrs. Ade-John acknowledged that the ministry’s current budget may hinder participation in this year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London. However, she assured NATOP that next year’s budget would allow for greater investment in tourism projects, saying, “We are financially constrained for now, but by next year, we will be better positioned to embark on major tourism projects together.”

NATOP’s Vision for Nigeria’s Tourism

In response, NATOP President Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha outlined the association’s short- and long-term goals to promote Nigeria’s tourism assets. She emphasized NATOP’s dedication to marketing Nigeria’s cultural heritage, ecological tourism, and festivals on a global scale. “We are here to assure you of our partnership and collaboration to market Nigeria’s diverse offerings,” Mustapha stated, highlighting the association’s desire to help reposition Nigeria as a top tourist destination in Africa.

Project Rediscover Nigeria

NATOP also announced its upcoming “Project Rediscover Nigeria,” which aims to galvanize states, local authorities, and citizens to prioritize the promotion of Nigerian culture and tourism. The project seeks to reinforce the socioeconomic importance of tourism as a tool for job creation and empowerment, contributing to an improved global ranking for Nigeria as a must-visit destination.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together to boost Nigeria’s tourism industry, with an eye toward greater international visibility in the coming years.

Femi Adebayo’s “Jagun Jagun” Bags Seven Nominations at 2024 AMAA Awards

Actor and filmmaker celebrates major achievement at prestigious African film event

Nigerian actor and filmmaker, Femi Adebayo, is elated as his 2023 epic film Jagun Jagun garners seven nominations at the highly regarded 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). The nominations were announced recently, positioning Jagun Jagun as a standout contender at the upcoming awards.

Seven Key Nominations

Taking to social media, Adebayo enthusiastically shared the exciting news with his fans, listing the categories in which Jagun Jagun has been recognized. The film, which has captivated audiences since its release, is nominated in several major categories, showcasing its artistic and technical achievements. The categories include:

  • Best Actor in a Supporting Role
  • Achievement in Costume Design
  • Achievement in Make-up
  • Achievement in Production Design
  • Ousmane Sembene Award for Best Film in an African Language
  • Achievement in Visual Effect
  • National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) Award for Best Nigerian Film

Adebayo Expresses Gratitude

Femi Adebayo expressed his appreciation for the recognition and thanked his dedicated team for their hard work and creativity in making Jagun Jagun a cinematic masterpiece. In his post, he wrote:

“Hey Guys, we’ve done it again!!! Delighted to announce JAGUN JAGUN clinched seven nominations at the 2024 AMAA AWARDS nominee announcement yesterday.”

Read Also: Africa Film Academy Unveils 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards Nominees

He continued by expressing his excitement for the honors, saying, “Truly honored to receive these nominations… Big thanks to @amaawards_ for the recognition and to my team of talented creatives for making Jagun Jagun a timeless masterpiece.”

Looking Ahead to the 2024 AMAA

The Africa Movie Academy Awards, often referred to as the “African Oscars,” celebrate excellence in African cinema, and Jagun Jagun‘s multiple nominations underscore its impact in the industry. The awards ceremony, slated for 2024, is eagerly awaited by filmmakers, industry insiders, and fans alike.

With its strong showing at the nominations, Jagun Jagun is poised to make a significant mark at the event, further cementing Adebayo’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most versatile and accomplished filmmakers.

Netflix Celebrates Nigeria’s 64th Independence with New Nigerian Film Lineup

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Netflix has unveiled an exciting selection of licensed Nigerian films set for release throughout October and the final quarter of the year. One of the standout titles is Hijack 93, a gripping thriller based on real-life events, which will premiere on October 25, commemorating the 1993 plane hijacking in Nigeria.

Hijack 93: A Riveting Story of Protest and Tension

Hijack 93 recounts the dramatic tale of four young Nigerian men who hijacked a plane in protest against the annulment of the 1993 elections. Set in the intense atmosphere of a high-stakes situation, the film follows the hijackers as they grapple with the need to make their demands known while safeguarding the lives of the passengers and preserving their own freedom.

Produced by Play Network Studios, the film boasts an impressive cast, including top Nigerian stars such as Nancy Isime, Sharon Ooja, Jemima Osunde, Idia Aisen, Adam Garba, Nnamdi Agbo, Akinsola Oluwaseyi, Allison Emmanuel, Efa Iwara, and John Dumelo.

Behind the Film: The Vision of Play Network Studios

The film’s producer, Charles Okpaleke, co-founder of Play Network Studios, explained the importance of telling this story.

Hijack 93 is a fictional retelling inspired by the true events of a Nigerian Airways flight hijacked in 1993 by some Nigerian teenagers. Such historic events, which are part of the backbone of our democracy, have a tendency to fade from memory before the next generation becomes aware of them. As a filmmaker, my focus is on telling our true African stories for the world to see,” Okpaleke said.

Play Network Studios is known for previous hits like Blood Vessel and Glamour Girls, and Hijack 93 is expected to further solidify the studio’s reputation for creating compelling films that highlight significant moments in Nigerian history.

Netflix’s Commitment to Nigerian Storytelling

Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s Vice President of Content for the Middle East and Africa, emphasized the streaming platform’s dedication to promoting Nigerian stories and culture.

It is essential to us that Netflix remains the premier destination for the best in Nigerian storytelling for our members in Nigeria,” Amadasun said. “We aim to continue celebrating the country’s rich and vibrant culture and history by acquiring a variety of exciting licensed titles from Nigeria’s best filmmaking talent.”

With *Hijack 93* leading the charge, Netflix’s upcoming slate of Nigerian titles promises to captivate audiences and celebrate the nation’s cultural legacy.

China Highlights Cultural Diversity as Key to National Development

The Director  China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr. Yang Jianxing, has underscored the need for the exchange of cultural diversity between Nigeria and China to enhance national development.

He stated this during the celebration of the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Mooncake Festival, in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, which dates back over 1,000 years, is a time for families to come together, admire the full moon, and enjoy traditional mooncakes while making wishes for peace, reunion, and happiness.

According to the Director of the Cultural Centre,  Chinese believe that the moon is at its brightest and fullest during this festival, coinciding with harvest time in the middle of autumn.

Mr. Jianxing explained that the festival serves as an avenue for friends of China in Nigeria to share happiness and unite with one another.

We have expressed our feelings about our love for our families. Chinese people love their families deeply. So the key word is love. We must love one another—older people, younger children, everyone. Today’s key words are reunion and love.”

Mr. Jianxing also noted that the Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional Chinese holiday that highlights the importance of family reunions and togetherness.

As we gather here today, I’m reminded of the famous Chinese verses: ‘The bright moon rises over the sea; we share this moment from afar,’ and ‘May we all live long, sharing the beauty of the moon even if we are a thousand miles apart.’ These words encapsulate the deep longing for family reunion and the spirit of caring for others that defines the Chinese people.”

This partnership embodies the Chinese concept of ‘Tianxia Datong,’ which means all people under heaven are one family.

We aim to share experiences, help each other, and develop together with all African countries, including Nigeria.”

While commending Nigerians for their hospitality, he noted that as a Chinese national, he still feels he is with family because of the warm reception he has enjoyed from the Nigerian people.

On his part, the Vice Secretary General of the Zhengzhou Municipal People’s Government, Zhao Hengkang, stated that the Mid-Autumn Festival aims to celebrate cultural exchange and the martial arts charm of Chinese Kung Fu.

This poetic event seeks to share the cultural and martial arts charm of Chinese Kung Fu, a fusion of Buddhist culture and traditional Chinese culture.

Zhao emphasized Zhengzhou’s renowned reputation as the “City of Kung Fu” and its rich history as the hometown of the legendary Yellow Emperor.

The Shaolin Kung Fu Performing Art Group has captivated global audiences, performing at events like the Athens and Beijing Olympics and touring across five continents. Their impressive feats have made Shaolin Kung Fu one of China’s most cherished cultural treasures, alongside the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and pandas.”

The representative of the Ministry of Arts and Creative Economy, Zainab Ali Biu, stated that China and Nigeria’s diverse cultures, if well harnessed, could benefit both countries.

Culture is the heart of any nation; it embodies our values, history, and the essence of who we are. Looking ahead, there are numerous practical ways through which Nigeria and China can mutually benefit from this strengthened partnership, such as art exhibitions, film festivals, and performances that showcase the talents of our artists,” She said.

Other highlights of the event were  Chinese dance and displays of gallantry through martial arts from both Nigeria and China

VON

Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio to Launch ‘Dance Cinematic Universe’

Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio is set to make waves in the entertainment industry with the upcoming launch of its “Dancinematic Universe.” The project, which merges the creative elements of music videos and the cinematic storytelling of feature films through dance, is scheduled for an official unveiling in October. This innovative series promises to revolutionize the Nigerian creative landscape, blending high-energy performances with immersive storytelling.

Pilot Project: The Big Bang

The debut project within the Dancinematic Universe is a short film titled The Big Bang, set in a fictional universe. It combines dance, music, and cinematic narratives to create a unique world-building experience for viewers. This musical fantasy, inspired by a true story, follows the journey of a young creative with a vision to reshape the entertainment industry. The project aims to bring an entirely new format to Nigerian entertainment, merging transmedia storytelling and cinematic flair.

Transmedia Storytelling and World-Building

A key aspect of this initiative is its groundbreaking approach to world-building through transmedia storytelling. This method allows for the narrative to expand across multiple platforms, creating an immersive experience for the audience. According to Sugar Factory Film Studio’s Creative Director, Tunde Ayinla, professionally known as StylSlayer, this format has been modeled after global franchises like *The Boys* and Deadpool, but with an added layer of immersion tailored to Nigerian audiences.

In a statement, Ayinla explained that Sugar Factory Film Studios is positioning itself as a creative hub for intellectual properties and brands, offering a unique blend of product placement and branded content. “This is a pioneering effort to enhance the world-building of promotional storytelling,” he said.

Governor Abdulrazaq’s Support and Industry Impact

Ayinla credited Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his visionary leadership and ongoing support of the creative sector in Kwara. The launch of the Dancinematic Universe follows closely after Kwara secured the hosting rights for the 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards. The awards event, set to attract over 500 movie stars, producers, and industry professionals to Ilorin, will take place at the iconic Sugar Factory Film Studios—a major project backed by the Abdulrazaq administration.

Ayinla emphasized that The Big Bang serves as the cornerstone of the Dancinematic Universe, creating a new market space within the Nigerian entertainment industry. “This is a first-of-its-kind project with a cross-pollinated audience. We’re excited about the potential this brings to the industry,” he stated.

Economic Projections and Job Creation

With an early revenue projection of N5.4 billion, the Dancinematic Universe has been designed as a blue ocean project, setting the studio apart from its competitors. Beyond its commercial success, the initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs for young people in Kwara, especially within the creative sector. The production aims to foster a new generation of talent, contributing to the growth of the local and national entertainment industries.