The popular Arnheim Art Gallery and Restaurant, Onireke, Ibadan, was a beehive of activities on Saturday as artistes and cultural enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the country’s culture and 62nd independence anniversary.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the artistes include veteran actor and dramatist Jimi Solanke, comic actor Hafiz Oyetoro, Elnana of Africa, Ms Elfreda Moradeyo, A J Sequential and Goke Bajowa.
The event tagged “FAT October Concert 2022”, was organised by Tunde Odunlade Arts and Culture Connexions, Ibadan.
The Chief Executive Officer and Curator of Tunde Odunlade Arts and Culture, Prince Tunde Odunlade, said at the event that October was a significant month to every Nigerian because of the independence.
“The Yoruba people call it “Owara Owara”, meaning the month of many rains – rain of mercy, joy and wealth to all and sundry.
“Folks are invited today to gather to have fun, dance, sing, clap and unwind from all that have been menacing them all year round,” he said.
Odunlade said that culture transcended dancing and singing.
“It is a recipe for exhibiting, a way of life that is evident of our wellbeing, showcasing our civility as a people with high degree of cerebral disposition, and more importantly, our understanding of other cultures.
“The use of arts and culture as image launder is inevitable and, therefore, desirable; a people without culture are in asylum and a people without art, have no heart.
“It is in this light, we deemed it necessary to converge under a roof with love shared among people through music, drama, comedy, etc.
“Constant celebration and appreciation of our culture will bring the dynamism in it to bear, and we are better for it,” he said.
He added that the event was a way of giving back to the people of Ibadan, noting that Ibadan had been a place for arts and culture.
Commenting, Oyetoro called on Nigerians to find reasons to celebrate the country’s independence anniversary is spite of challenges.
“We should keep thinking positively about our dear country; the challenges we are facing now are a phase that will come to pass.
“We should not lose hope but look inwards and appreciate our values as a nation, we should make sure that we are productive in whatever we are doing.
“If all of us have determination and be focused on what we do, Nigeria will surely be better,” he said.
He said that economic situation in the country might have hindered many citizens from celebrating the independence.
“People are just doing their normal businesses, there no special programmes as it should be.
“This may be because of the economic problems. What we should do is to manage our natural resources to achieve desired results.
“We need to come together to develop our country rather than running to other countries even for medical support.
“For me, I’m going to be in Nigeria and do the little I can to make the country better,” he said.
Also, Moradeyo called on Nigerians to see the need to promote the country’s culture and tourism.
She urged governments and other stakeholders to support young artistes and invest more in the culture and tourism industry.
“We should see the need to always put ourselves and our culture first because charity begins from home.
“We should all work together as a team and promote our own culture rather than that of the White,” she said. (NAN)