Lagos Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke benson-Awoyinka
Afropolis 2024 to transform Lagos into art, tech hub – Benson-Awoyinka
[By VICTOR NZE]
Lagos Government has declared that the forthcoming edition of the Afropolis Festival is being positioned to transform the state into a vibrant hub of artistic and technological hub of excellence in the country.
Speaking at the JK Randle Yoruba Culture Centre, Onikan, Lagos, Wednesday, venue of a press briefing on the festival billed to run from October 26 to November 3, this year, state Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, further disclosed that the event will seek to celebrate creativity, innovation.
According to the commissioner, the state will partner with a private firm, QDance Center as co-organiser, for the event billed to span over a period of nine days.
The press briefing described as a ‘town hall meeting’, had in attendance, Mr. Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser on Tourism to state Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, s well as, Mr. Qudus Onikeku, operator of the QDance Center, Lagos.
The festival is expected to cover the Onikan area of Lagos Island as it aims to showcase the creativity of the state with lively arts and technology display.
The festival will end with a curated marketplace exhibition, over the weekend, where participants will showcase their works.
“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 (Onikan) has long been a cultural hub, and hosting Afropolis here is a fitting tribute to its legacy. The JK 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.
“Additionally, we have launched various funding programs to support young creatives and organized international cultural exchange programs. These initiatives have enabled our artists to gain new perspectives, enhance their skills, and bring innovative ideas back to Lagos,” said the Lagos commissioner.
