In partnership with a dance company, Q Dance, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture would be staging a cultural event tagged:”Afropolis” which would run for 9 days at Onikan, Lagos Island.
According to the lead organiser of the event and brain behind Q Dance, Qudus Onikeku, at a town hall meeting held at J.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, on Wednesday, 10th July 2024, the event which would be running between October 26th and November 3rd, would be a world-class cultural event that would showcase talents, ideas and creativity in which technology would also play a key role.
Speaking further, Onikeku explained that his Q Dance Company is a pre-eminent creative agency that uses dance, music and creativity as capacities for human development, operating as a community centre in Lagos, Nigeria. And it, therefore, was not a surprise that Onikeku could come up with such a concept like Afropolis in collaboration with the Lagos State Government.
Explaining the concept of Afropolis further, Onikeku said, ” it is proposing an Afrocentric technocultural approach for future making, through collaboration between emerging technologies and emerging artists, who perceive technology not as a solution but as a tool for understanding and imagining a balanced future.”
And on collaborating with the Lagos State Government on the project, Onikeku rationalised that, ” sincerely, this is an idea and project that we cannot execute alone due to the huge financial implications. I appreciate Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture for being a partner. This indicates a government that is ready to support the youths and help them grow.”
In her keynote address towards the tail end of the town hall meeting, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, emphasised that, “Afropolis is not just an event; it is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, creativity, and innovation. It is a platform where African creatives can come together to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and collaborate on groundbreaking projects. This festival is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic spirit of our continent.”
Speaking further, the elegant Commissioner asserted that, “Lagos, as the host city, is proud to be at the forefront of this cultural revolution. Our city is renowned as the largest black cultural melting pot in the world, and we continue to lead in various creative sectors such as music, fashion, gaming, tech, design, film, dance, AI, and research. Our young talents are making significant strides on the global stage, and events like Afropolis provide them with the visibility and opportunities they deserve.
“Over the past few years, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has been committed to supporting and nurturing our creative industries. We have made significant investments in infrastructure, such as renovating key cultural sites and establishing new venues for arts and performances. These efforts ensure that our artists have the platforms they need to thrive.
“The essence of AFROPOLIS lies in its ability to bring together a diverse array of creative minds. Imagine the vibrant fusion of traditional and modern expressions that will be on display, from indigenous crafts to cutting-edge digital art. This melting pot of ideas and talents promises to be an unforgettable experience for both participants and attendees.
“As we gather here today, it is also important to reflect on the historical significance of Onikan. This area has long been a cultural hub, and hosting Afropolis here is a fitting tribute to its legacy. The J.Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, in particular, stands as a beacon of our rich heritage and offers the perfect backdrop for this celebration.” She explained.
There was a question and answer session before the town hall meeting moderated by popular stand-up comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka, came to a close.
Saheed Ojubanire.
