By Kolawole Ojebisi
In a move reminiscent of FESTAC ’77, President Bola Tinubu has stated that efforts are in top gear by his administration to welcome people from every nook and cranny across the globe for what he described as “Motherland Festival”.
Tinubu declared this in a speech delivered early this morning to mark his administration second anniversary. He stated that the occasion is “in the spirit of democracy and national renewal”
According to the Nigeria’s helmsman, the landmark gathering “will spotlight our rich heritage, dynamic creative industries, and the vibrant energy of our people. He said, “In the spirit of democracy and national renewal, we are preparing to welcome the world to Nigeria soon for the Motherland Festival. This landmark gathering will spotlight our rich heritage, dynamic creative industries, and the vibrant energy of our people. It will showcase Nigeria’s beauty through tourism, culture, and innovation, inviting the world to rediscover our nation.”
“The Motherland Festival will bring together voices from across the continent and the diaspora in a decisive moment of unity and purpose, affirming that Nigeria is not only a leader in Africa but a committed global partner ready to engage, inspire, and lead.” Tinubu added.
Recall that the FESTAC ’77 was organised during the military regime of former President Olusegun Obasanjo who succeeded his former boss, Muritala Ramat Muhammed, who was assassinated on February 13, 1976.
The event, which was the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, brought together participants from 55-56 countries.
The festival, held in Lagos, Nigeria in 1977, was a global celebration of Black and African identity, featuring artists, performers, and intellectuals.
