Oluwatosin Enesi
Speaking on Wednesday evening during the celebration of the 2024 World Theatre Day, Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, said that Lagos would intensify effort in ensuring that more attention was given to arts, theatre and culture in the state.
The day was celebrated with energetic display of various theatrical performances, dances and music, by students in commemoration of the 2024 World Theatre Day.
The theme for this year’s commemoration of the Day is ‘Theatre and Culture of Peace.’
Idris added that he was delighted that the younger generation of artistes were carried along in the development of arts and culture.
“Lagos tourism is rising; we will continue to do our best. Our government is interested in tourism and arts of our people.
“We need to do more, increase the conversation to let the world know that Lagos has a lot to offer in the theatre industry. We are intensifying the scope, that is why we have different stakeholders here.”
Veteran actress, Mrs Taiwo Ajai-lycet, emphasised that “The entertaiment industry is the lifeline of Nigeria, this is where the future of Nigeria is. If you focus on the creative industry in Nigeria you cannot fail. You focus on the people when you focus on the entertainment.”
She also encouraged the government to partner more with entertainers, especially at events such as this.
She said, “How well have they thought about this. Politicians should do more by supporting arts. They should do more and incorporate entertainers in all this.”
The event held at Alliance Française in Ikoyi, featured performances cutting across different ethnic groups represented in the state.
The Saxophone Hub, a troupe of dancers, presented instrumental performance of late Victor Uwaifor’s “Joromi”, late Victor Olaiya’s “Omo Pupa” and Simi’s “Duduke”.
Also, Segun Afefila’s Crown Troupe of Africa rendered a play sensitising Nigerians on the need to contribute their quota in to the development of the country.
The Lagos State Troupe showcased a playlet entitled ‘Oshodi,’ highlighting Oshodi as a place of movement, prosperity and adversity.
Also, Chairman, Lagos State House Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Solomon Bonu, assured all stakeholders of his full commitment to developing the industry.
Our Reporter
