Lagos Govt Declares Afropolis Open
Kehinde Adeleye
The Lagos State government has officially declared Afropolis 2024 open in a grand ceremony at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba History and Culture, Onikan, Lagos State.
The Afropolis celebrates African heritage, bringing together artists, creatives, and culture enthusiasts to explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in Africa.
The Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the event organisers for their commitments to African cultural preservation.
In his remarks, Dr. Hamzat while speaking on the theme, New Myth, which calls on Africans to reimagine their identity by fusing ancestral wisdom with the realities of modern life said, “Today, we celebrate New Myth, a theme that urges us to blend the wisdom of our forebears with our contemporary experiences.”
“These stories, once the foundation of our society, now help us understand our complex realities and dream of the future we want to shape as Africans.”
He emphasised that “creativity, technology, and sustainability must drive the African narrative in the 21st century.”
Dr. Hamzat reiterated the Lagos State government’s commitment to support the arts, stating that the creative industry is essential for social unity, economic growth, and international diplomacy.
He highlighted that arts and culture not only reflect identity but are also tools for economic development and global influence.
Artistic Director and Curator of Afropolis 2024, Qudus Onikeku, emphasised the importance of collaboration. “Lagos will only achieve greatness through true collaboration, not mere inclusion,” he stated.
He explained that Afropolis serves as a shared platform that unites diverse voices across various creative spaces, such as the Idea Lab, Nexus, Film Lab, and Vibe Stage amongst others.
Afropolis 2024 promises a vibrant line-up of exhibitions, performances, and discussions that delve into Africa’s evolving identity.
He encouraged participants to embrace these experiences, gain insight from diverse perspectives, and craft new myths that reflect Africa’s aspirations for the future.
The festival is set to continue over the coming week, showcasing African culture, with a mission to elevate African artistry on the global stage, Afropolis 2024 invites all to engage in this celebration of creativity, identity, and innovation.
