Creative Industry
‘NEW GATE’ Art Exhibition Opens in Abuja, Celebrating Pakistan-Nigeria Cultural Bond
Joel Ajayi
The ‘NEW GATE’ Art Exhibition, a vibrant showcase of cultural harmony and creative brilliance, was officially inaugurated on Saturday by His Excellency Major General (Retd) Sohail Ahmad Khan, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Nigeria.
The ceremony took place at the High Commission of Pakistan in Abuja and marked a significant milestone in the growing cultural collaboration between Pakistan and Nigeria.
In his keynote remarks, the High Commissioner emphasized the unifying power of art as a bridge for cross-cultural understanding, peacebuilding, and the promotion of Pakistan’s rich artistic legacy.
He described the exhibition as “a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values between the peoples of Pakistan and Nigeria.”
The exhibition, organized in celebration with Anila’s Art Addiction Gallery, prominently featured the works of celebrated curator and artist Anila Adnan, who received a commemorative shield in recognition of her leadership and artistic contribution.
Her thoughtful curation, which creatively intertwined Pakistani and Nigerian artistic elements, presented a powerful narrative of unity in diversity.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, Mama Nike, Nigeria’s renowned artist and cultural icon, served as the chief guest. In her remarks, she praised the exhibition for its spirit of cultural fusion and artistic excellence.
A major highlight of the evening was the electrifying performance by the Wazobia Dancers, whose colorful and energetic display of traditional Nigerian dance thrilled the audience and brought the event to life. The rhythmic beats and cultural expression captured the essence of the evening’s theme — unity through the arts.
The event attracted a diverse gathering, including members of the diplomatic corps, art lovers, dignitaries, and representatives from both the Pakistani and Nigerian communities.
Attendees were treated to an immersive cultural experience that underscored the potential of art to inspire dialogue and strengthen international ties.
The exhibition will remain open to the public until July 2, 2025, at the Pakistan High Commission, Abuja.
Business
NTDA: Naija Flavour Poised to Create Wealth, Empower SMEs, and Drive National Growth
Joel Ajayi
The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), Olayiwola Awakan, has affirmed that the 2025 edition of Naija Flavour… Destination December will play a pivotal role in creating wealth, empowering local businesses, strengthening the creative economy, and accelerating national growth.
Scheduled for December 13, 2025, Naija Flavour will showcase a vibrant marketplace of culture, food, fashion, games, live theatre, and music. Designed as a platform for SMEs to increase visibility, attract customers, and build partnerships, the event aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking at the launching in Abuja on Friday, the DG described Naija Flavour as a strategic cultural tourism initiative that channels Nigeria’s identity, creativity, and entrepreneurial energy into economic impact.
“Naija Flavour has been conceptualised to generate wealth, empower local businesses, strengthen our creative economy, and build a tourism experience that sustains itself and stimulates national growth,” Awakan said.
He noted that Nigeria’s globally recognised Detty December culture has become a magnet for visitors seeking the country’s music, food, nightlife, and cultural vibrancy. NTDA, he explained, saw an opportunity to transform this natural phenomenon into a structured tourism product.
“Nigeria is not just a country; we are a global vibe. So, we asked ourselves: how do we package that vibe into a tourism experience that drives jobs, revenue, and international attention? Naija Flavour is our answer,” he said.
To amplify cultural tourism, NTDA also unveiled a theatrical production titled Echoes of the Drums—a celebration of unity, ecotourism, folklore, and Nigeria’s ancestral heritage. Written by Ola Awakan and directed by Isioma Williams, the production will serve as a centrepiece for cultural storytelling.
Awakan expressed appreciation for institutional partners including The Monoliza Abuja, NIHOTOUR, the National Troupe of Nigeria, CBAAC, NFVCB, and GOTHAD.
He called on the media, corporate bodies, SMEs, and creative entrepreneurs to support the movement and seize the opportunities Naija Flavour will unlock.
“Let the flavours travel. Let the world know that Nigeria is shaping tourism with innovation, entertainment, and economic impact,” he said.
Encouraging Nigerians and global visitors to save the date, he added: “Naija Flavour is a celebration of our diversity, creativity, and innovation. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we will continue to build a tourism industry that generates income, sustains jobs, and promotes national pride. Let the drums speak. Let the flavours rise. Let Nigeria shine.”
-
Featured6 years agoLampard Names New Chelsea Manager
-
Featured6 years agoFG To Extends Lockdown In FCT, Lagos Ogun states For 7days
-
Featured6 years agoChildren Custody: Court Adjourns Mike Ezuruonye, Wife’s Case To April 7
-
Featured6 years agoNYSC Dismisses Report Of DG’s Plan To Islamize Benue Orientation Camp
-
Featured4 years agoTransfer Saga: How Mikel Obi Refused to compensate me After I Linked Him Worth $4m Deal In Kuwait SC – Okafor
-
Sports3 years ago
TINUBU LAMBAST DELE MOMODU
-
News11 months agoZulu to Super Eagles B team, President Tinubu is happy with you
-
Featured6 years ago
Board urges FG to establish one-stop rehabilitation centres in 6 geopolitical zones
