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AFRIMA: Beat S’Africa to hosting rights, stakeholders tell Tinubu, Musawa

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10 months ago

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…insists one edition must hold in Abuja, Jos, Kaduna

 

A culture and creative industry advocacy group, Arewa Creative Industry Heritage Vanguard, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, to lead efforts in securing the hosting rights for the next two editions of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA)offered by the African Union Commission to Nigeria and South Africa as reported in the media recently. They want to ensure that at least one edition of the prestigious event takes place in the northern region of Nigeria of Kaduna, Jos or Abuja due to years of deliberate marginalization and deprivation of international events of this nature.

 

 

 

According to Dr Shehu Samadi, the President of the Vanguard, speaking from Kaduna, they have learned that the African Union (AU) invited the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to submit bids for the hosting rights for the next editions of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). As such, they are imploring and advising President Tinubu not to allow South Africa to beat Nigeria to the hosting rights as this will have implications on the national psyche of Nigerians and the development of the music industry. It called on the Honorable Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa to update Nigerians on the progress made thus far in securing the AFRIMA hosting rights, for Nigerians to know how and where to assist in achieving this common objective.

 

 

 

The group, which comprises cultural enthusiasts, music industry stakeholders, and advocates for Northern Nigeria’s music heritage, recognizes the significance of AFRIMA in promoting African music and fostering cultural exchange across the continent and with the rest of the world. Therefore, they believe it is essential for Nigeria, especially the Northern region, to play a central role in hosting the event and showcasing the country’s rich creativity and cultural diversity from its point of expertise and cultural expression.

 

 

 

Samadi emphasized three significant reasons why President Tinubu should champion the course of securing the hosting rights. The group recalls with nostalgia how President Tinubu in 2015, in person received a 23.9 karat gold plated AFRIMA trophy as the pillar of Art and Culture in Africa presented by the African Union commission.” This should motivate the President to intensify efforts to secure the hosting rightshaving experience the creative power and the global influence of AFRIMA personally.

 

 

 

The second reason is that as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, President Tinubu can utilize the opportunity of hosting a large-scale event like this to further his commitment towards promoting unity, economic development, and cultural diversity in the region and on the continent. Although an event of AFRIMA’s scale can cause significant ripples across the continent and around the world, Nigeria stands a chance of benefiting the most, and we in the North hope to tap into the inherent benefits as against the past practice of marginalization where such international events are preserved for the exclusive experience of the southern part of Nigeria..”

 

 

 

Thirdly, the Nigerian Music industry has witnessed astronomical global growth with little or no input from successive governments. Hosting an AFRIMA by this government provides an appropriate platform for the Tinubu Administration to establish itself as a creative industry supporting the government as well as engendering positive perception and image for Nigeria to attract tourism and foreign direct investment.

 

 

 

“Fourth, we believe that Northern Nigeria has the potential to become a tourism hub, and hosting events like this can help mitigate the effect of insecurity in our region. We are eager to host an event like this because we strongly believe that it could be used to address the issues that have plagued our region, including terrorism and banditry. By promoting peace and tranquillity, our youth can embrace hope and prosperity as well promote the budding music talents in the region who require inspiration and pragmatic motivation” he said.

 

 

 

The group is advocating for the cities of Abuja, Jos and Kaduna to be considered as host cities for at least one of the two editions of AFRIMA. The group believes that these cities are strategically located, culturally significant, and have vibrant music scenes, making them ideal venues for the event.

 

 

 

The group expresses concern over what they perceive as a pattern of neglect in the hosting of key musical events, and they call for greater inclusivity and representation for the Northern region. They note that in recent years, there has been a growing sentiment among stakeholders in the Northern music industry that the region is often overlooked when it comes to hosting major international events.

 

 

 

Samadi said: “Despite boasting a wealth of cultural heritage and a thriving music industry, Northern Nigeria has frequently found itself sidelined in favour of other regions when it comes to hosting events of national and international significance. This is unfortunate.

 

 

 

“We strongly believe that hosting AFRIMA in Abuja, Jos and Kaduna would not only stimulate economic growth and promote tourism in the region but address this feeling of discrimination against us.

 

 

 

“In addition to the big music superstars from this part of the country, Abuja, Jos and Kaduna have the infrastructure, capacity, and cultural significance to host AFRIMA successfully. It is time for Northern Nigeria to be given the recognition it deserves on the continental stage.”

 

 

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Nigerian Art Icons Lemi Ghariokwu and Ini Dan to be Honored at Ojez Forum on Sunday

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2 days ago

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February 21, 2025

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A celebration of artistic excellence is on the horizon as the February edition of the Ojez Forum pays tribute to two giants of Nigerian art: Lemi Ghariokwu and Otunba Akang Ini Dan. The event will be held this Sunday at Ojez Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

 

Lemi Ghariokwu, also known as Emmanuel Sunday, is a self-taught Nigerian visual artist celebrated for his distinctive and thought-provoking album cover designs. He is most recognized for his extensive collaboration with Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, creating the artwork for 26 of Kuti’s albums. Ghariokwu’s art is distinguished by its vibrant colors, meticulous detail, and socio-political messages, reflecting African identity, activism, and cultural pride. His prolific career includes designing over 2,000 album covers for artists around the globe, including iconic figures such as Bob Marley, Miriam Makeba, and Lucky Dube. His work has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide.

Otunba Akang Ini Dan is the Managing Director and CEO of Fodak Production. He is also the founder and chairman of the Sister Heart and Visual Foundation, organizations dedicated to developing artistic talent and promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. As Vice President (South West) of the Society for Nigerian Artists, Otunba Dan has been a champion for artists’ rights and a facilitator of platforms for artistic expression.

 

The Ojez Forum is a monthly event that highlights individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in Nigeria. This month’s gathering promises to be a special occasion, bringing together artists, enthusiasts, and patrons to celebrate the accomplishments of Lemi Ghariokwu and Otunba Akang Ini Dan. Attendees can anticipate engaging discussions, exhibitions, and performances showcasing the vibrant landscape of Nigerian art.

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KongaFM -103.7 Launches “Shop On Radio”

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5 days ago

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February 18, 2025

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For the first time in Africa, radio is no longer just about listening to music and advertisements; it’s added shopping. KongaFM -103.7, Nigeria’s pioneering Hit Music & Commerce radio station, is set to change the way Nigerians buy and sell with the official launch of “Shop On Radio.” On Monday 24th of February, 2025.

 

This is a game changer at a time Nigeria increased data cost by 50%.

 

This groundbreaking initiative, powered by an innovative partnership between KongaFM and Konga.com, turns live radio broadcasts into an interactive shopping experience, allowing listeners to place orders seamlessly, even without wasting so much cash on Data. Nigerian shoppers now have options with Konga.com and most importantly rock buttom prices on all items announced live on radio and delivered same day in lagos if orders are placed before 12noon.

 

Shoppers are encouraged to open a wallet with Kongapay.com as stock may be limited and orders shall be treated on first paid.

 

According to Mayowa Oladeji, Communications Lead at KongaFM, this marks a major shift in the e-commerce landscape.

“For the first time in Africa, radio is becoming an interactive shopping destination, bringing together millions of listeners and turning them into instant shoppers. We urge manufacturers and business owners to seize this opportunity by reaching out via WhatsApp, email, or Konga.com to showcase their products to a ready market.

Thanks to our innovative partnership, customers in Lagos who order during the show will enjoy guaranteed best prices and same-day delivery in Lagos, while we conclude logistics for same day delivery in other major cities of Nigeria before month of June this year, making shopping faster and more convenient than ever. This is a component of the future of commerce in Africa powered by KongaFM -103.7, streaming globally on kongafm.com 24hours every day.

 

How It Works

Listeners can tune in to “Shop On Radio” every morning from 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM and again in the evening from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Products will be announced live on air, often with exclusive discounts, and customers can place orders instantly via WhatsApp or Konga.com. A KongaFM representative confirms the order, and for Lagos-based shoppers, delivery is completed the same day; a service made possible by Konga Logistics’ expanded fleet of 140 trucks, buses, and over 120 motorbikes.

Beyond Lagos, Nigerians across the country, and even in the diaspora, can participate by streaming live at kongafm.com, ensuring that no one is left out of this retail revolution.

A Win-Win for Shoppers and Businesses

With high internet costs, trust issues, and logistical inefficiencies still posing challenges to e-commerce in Nigeria, Shop On Radio offers a data-free, fast, and trusted alternative for both buyers and sellers.

 

For shoppers, this means exclusive deals, quick and easy WhatsApp ordering, and guaranteed same-day delivery in Lagos. For businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and SMEs, this is a golden opportunity to reach a massive, engaged audience instantly and boost sales in real time.

Shoppers and merchants beyond Lagos can also seamlessly place orders or advertise their businesses, with Konga Logistics’ expanded fleet ensuring timely and efficient nationwide delivery.

 

To further enhance the experience, Konga.com has upgraded its call center to handle increased order volumes, ensuring smooth transactions and customer support.

More Than Just Shopping—A 24/7 Experience

KongaFM is more than a marketplace; it’s a dynamic platform designed to cater to diverse audiences. The station kicks off each day from 5 -7am with Morning Inspiration, featuring best global gospel music with uplifting words to start you day blessed captioned -Start your Day with God, and same All Sundays. It is inspiring both for Entrepreneurs, students, unemployed, employed and those retired. It is unbelievable these contents are domiciled in a Nigeria radio station powered by AI, ensuring a well-rounded listening experience beyond commerce.

KongaFm 103.7 in support of a new economy is also extending Free Advertisement to both big, medium and small businesses to showcase their products. Interested companies are advised to call 07080635705 or email info@kongafm.com

 

The future of shopping is here. Don’t just listen. Shop, sell, and save; all on KongaFM -103.7!

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Lagos Tourism commissioner on working visit to San Francisco film and entertainment commission

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1 week ago

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February 15, 2025

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Lagos Tourism commissioner on working visit to San Francisco film and entertainment commission

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