March 21, 2025, will forever be etched in Nigeria’s cultural history as the day poetry, music and shared heritage converged at the Terra Kulture Arena for the sixth edition of the Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café. Under the theme “Sand Dune and Ocean Bed: The Template of Dispersal,” the event honoured the United Nations’ Second Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034) and reflected on the enduring legacy of the transatlantic dispersal of enslaved peoples, while celebrating Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.
The evening began promptly at 4:02pm with the arrival of Soyinka, whose presence set the tone for a night of intellectual and artistic grandeur. The stage came alive with the electrifying performance of Magic Fingers, a dance troupe whose songs and dance heralded the arrival of the distinguished guests.
Providus Bank’s Dafe Ivwurie, warmly welcomed the audience and introduced Professor Wole Soyinka and the Cuban delegation. The delegation, led by a cabinet minister and accompanied by the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Morales, was a testament to the deep cultural ties between Nigeria and Cuba.
The event also featured a virtual poetry performance by Rotji Gokir, a Providus Bank staff member who had won an in-house writing competition. His remote participation underscored the global reach of the celebration. Following this, the Managing Director of Providus Bank, Sir Walter Akpani, took the stage to deliver his opening remarks. Expressing his delight at hosting the sixth edition of the event, Sir Akpani reiterated the bank’s commitment to promoting arts and culture as part of its corporate social responsibility.
Jahman Anikulapo, the curator of the event, highlighted Sir Akpani’s recent recognition as Banker of the Year and invited the Cuban Ambassador to the stage. The Ambassador’s brief remarks emphasised the importance of cultural exchange in fostering global unity and understanding.
The evening’s performances began with a mesmerising rendition by Wole Alade, Nigeria’s renowned multi-instrumentalist and professor of music. Alade performed his London project, “Olodumare,” accompanied by a video projection, horns and drums. The piece, a fusion of African and contemporary music, captivated the audience and set the stage for the Cuban performers.
The Cuban musical ensemble, Camerata Cortés, led by the legendary flautist José Luis Cortés, delivered a breathtaking performance. Their clarinets echoed like waves and dunes, transporting the audience to the shores of Havana. The conductor’s rhythmic hand clapping introduced their fourth number, a vibrant rhumba that had the audience swaying to its infectious beat.
The Nigerian poets, carefully selected for their diverse styles and cultural depth, delivered powerful performances that resonated with the theme of the evening.
– Àrẹ̀mọ Gemini (Yusuf Àlàbí Balógun): Accompanied by talking drums, Àrẹ̀mọ Gemini delivered a poignant poem titled “A Continent on the Brink,” addressing Africa’s challenges and resilience. His performance was a call to action, urging the audience to reflect on the continent’s future.
– Chinelo Nwora: With her poem “Our Eternal Song,” Chinelo brought a softer, reflective tone to the evening. Her words, rich with emotion, spoke of love, loss and the enduring spirit of humanity.
– Kafayat Quadri (Kaffe of Life): Kafayat’s performance was a blend of poetry and music. Her poem-song about migration and the quest for visas struck a chord with the audience. She then transitioned to “The Sound of Peace When Times Are Good,” a piece that celebrated hope and resilience. Her performance concluded with a haunting tune played on a recorder, leaving the audience in awe.
– Tijani Usman (Tijaywebster): Tijaywebster’s spoken-word performance, accompanied by an animation video he created, appealed to the Gen-Z members of audience, and, indeed, everyone present. His dynamic delivery and visual artistry showcased the evolving nature of poetry in the digital age.
– Evelyn Osagie: Evelyn’s performance of “Iyanu” was a historic poetic journey, dramatised by a posse of five performers who sang, played the guitar, and brought her words to life. Her piece celebrated the miracles of African heritage and resilience.
The Cuban poets added a unique flavour to the evening with their passionate performances.
– Alex Pausides: His poem “His Hand Explained” was a lyrical exploration of human connection and heritage.
– Edelmis Anoceto: Though his poem was not projected on the big screen, his delivery was powerful, capturing the audience’s attention with its depth and emotion.
– Israel Domínguez: Israel’s performance began and ended with chants, creating a rhythmic and almost spiritual experience. His ability to connect with the audience was evident even in the dramatic way he discarded his notes after letting his words flow freely.
– Emiliano Sardiñas (Repentista): Emiliano’s musical poetry was a highlight of the evening. His deep singing voice, coupled with his dramatic gestures—kneeling, praying and reciting—created a performance that was both moving and unforgettable.
Professor Wole Soyinka, the event’s patron, graced the stage to read a work in progress titled “Image in a Time of Abstinence”. His poem, which echoed the themes of the UN Decade of Remembrance for Enslaved Peoples, was a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity born out of adversity.
The evening concluded with a final performance by Camerata Cortés, who delighted the audience with their rendition of a song the conductor described as one of Cuba’s most famous. The performers and guests alike joined in the celebration, creating a festive atmosphere that transcended cultural boundaries.
The event also featured a book presentation from the Cuban Ministry of Culture to Professor Wole Soyinka, symbolising the enduring bond between Nigeria and Cuba.
The sixth Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café was a beautiful celebration of poetry; a celebration of shared heritage, resilience and the unifying power of art. As the curtains fell on the event, the audience, which consisted of people from all walks of life and across generations, left with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of cultural exchange and the enduring spirit of humanity.
This year’s celebration not only continued to honour Soyinka, it acknowledged the past and also inspired hope for a future where poetry and art continue to bridge divides and celebrate our shared humanity.