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Category: Entertainment

  • Film distribution: Actor Chidi Mokeme lauds creation of BRS Studios

     

     

    Nollywood Actor, Ramsey Nouah; Founder of Blue Pictures Cinema, Joy Odiete and renowned filmmaker, Chris Odeh

     

    Film

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Nollywood actor, Chidi Mokeme, has commended the establishment of BRS Studios, a platform to enhance film content, deepen distribution and improve creativity in audiovisual works from Africa.

    BRS Studios was established by Joy Odiete, Founder of Blue Pictures Cinema; Nollywood actor, Ramsey Nouah and renowned filmmaker, Chris Odeh, recently in Lagos.

    Mokeme, in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos said the initiative was insightful.

    He described it as the right tool to further entrench the African cinema which is blessed with abundant talents.

    “The platform will definitely take the industry further, because it will allow creatives the opportunity to explore their imaginations unrestrained by resources and logistics.”

    He said that the partnering companies had clearly stated that the joint venture would serve as a special vehicle to push projects of greater proportions while pursuing their individual businesses and specialties.

    He noted that the trio were bringing their different experiences and expertise in scriptwriting, directing, production management, as well as marketing to create a world class audio-visual outlet out of Africa.

    Also, renowned filmmaker, Charles Novia, said Nollywood was in need of such collaborations to enable it attain the desired heights.

    “We have been stressing the need for this kind of partnership in the industry. I am happy that BRS has set the stage rolling in this regard.

    “I would not be surprised to see others copying this initiative under various guises and names; the fact remains that this is good for Nollywood,” he said.

    Film producer, Uzodimma Okpechi, enjoined the team to give the platform the commitment it deserved so that the set goals would be realised.

    Ramsey Nouah, with over three decades of acting and more than 200 movies to his credit, owns Ramsey Films and has directed the remakes of classics like ‘Living in Bondage – Breaking Free’ and ‘Rattlesnake’.

    Joy Odiete, the producer of ‘Gone’, ‘Money Miss Road’ and ‘Owambe’ amongst others is the brain behind Blue Pictures, a renowned local and international independent film distributor/film sales agent.

    She has been a sub distributor to Warner Brothers Pictures, Walt Disney Pictures, Black Sheep Entertainment and other independent studios in the U.S., UK and South Africa for over 19 years.

    Chris Odeh has almost 20 years experience in the film and TV industry. He has also produced over 15 films, including Rattlesnake – The Ahanna Story, Choke, Nneka, the Pretty Serpent, Aki and Pawpaw, Love, Lust and Tokunbo, amongst others

    He is the Senior Producer of Sozo Films and Ramsey Films, and a consulting producer for Play Network Studios, Blue Pictures, Take Out Media and Urbane Productions. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

    PTB/FAA

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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Democracy: Adewale Ayuba releases new musical album, “Isé Olúwa”

    Fuji Musician, Adewale Ayuba

     

    Democracy: Adewale Ayuba releases new musical album, “Isé Olúwa”

    Album

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Legendary Fuji musician, Adewale Ayuba, popularly known as “Mr Johnson”, is set to release a new musical album titled “Isé Olúwa”, in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

    Ayuba disclosed this while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

    According to him, the four-track album to be released on June 14 is aimed at pacifying Nigerians on current economic challenges.

    “One of the tracks, “Humility”, emphasises the fact that Nigeria is not a destroyed nation, while the slogan “Nigeria ko wo”, repeatedly emphasised in the song means ‘Nigeria is not collapsed’.”

    He said the song was for listeners to know that the nation will survive the current economic hardship and in no time revert to good old days.

    “The tracks in Isé Olúwa album are: ‘Humility’, ‘Jo’folorun’, ‘Jafo Authority’ and ‘Bonsue On The Go USA’. I came up with this album to deliberately speak to Nigerians in a way of advice.

    “We all know that we have not elected a president from America or other climes, we elected a Nigerian like us. So, we should exercise patience, support the government and make things work again.

    “Current economic challenges did not start today and no one can say that President Bola Tinubu is not working, we must be consistent in our prayers for our leaders, for divine help.

    “I also emphasise the need to show love, which  Yoruba people refer to as ‘Ife Eleyele’. This is the kind of love exhibited by the pigeons, unequalled love that will not make an individual to jettison his or her neighbours, friends and relatives, in face of challenges.

    “When we exhibit this, we will have a sane society,” he said.

    Ayuba said that the album would be accessible on all musical distribution platform when released.

    He urged his fans across the globe to watch out for the release and position their minds to be inspired through the songs.

    Emphasising on the need to exhibit love to one another, the Bonsue-crooner said Nigerians must be ready to jettison tribal, religious and political differences to move forward. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

    PTB/FAA

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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • National Theatre GM urges more investment in cultural tourism, creative industries

    Investment

    By Babajide Awoyinfa

    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The General Manager, National Arts Theatre, Tola Akerele, has called for more investment in cultural tourism, creative industries, and multicultural education to further leverage Nigeria’s diversity.

    Akerele made the call on Tuesday in Lagos at a World Cultural Day celebration organised by the National Theatre in collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP).

    The theme of the programme is “Harnessing Cultural Diversity to foster Unity and drive Economic Growth in Nigeria”.

    “Cultural diversity is not a liability; it’s an asset waiting to be adequately harnessed.

    “By embracing our diversity, we position Nigeria as a global leader – a hub of creativity and ingenuity.”

    She highlighted the creative industry’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s GDP, citing the sector’s impressive figures from 2023.

    “The creative industry, particularly motion picture and music recording, accounted for roughly N154 billion (approximately 197.6 million U.S. dollars) of Nigeria’s GDP in 2023.

    “This figure demonstrates the sector’s vital role in Nigeria’s overall economic landscape,” she said.

    According to Akerele, Nigeria’s cultural wealth is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and ingenuity of its people.

    “We must recognise and celebrate our differences, rather than allowing them to divide us,” she said.

    She emphasised the importance of promoting intercultural dialogue, celebrating Nigeria’s cultural heritage, and exploring ways to harness diversity for economic growth.

    Renowned Playwright and Theatre Director, Ben Tomoloju, highlighted the importance of multiculturalism in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria.

    The playwright defined multiculturalism as “the state of a society or the world in which there exists numerous distinct ethnic and cultural groups seen to be politically relevant.”

    Tomoloju urged stakeholders in the cultural industry to explore the potential of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage and optimise its commercial benefits.

    “I encourage the community of culture producers to take stock of extant manifestations of the Nigerian cultural industry and assess their potential use-value.”

    According to him, the democratisation of culture is essential for widening the space for participation of the people in organised cultural life.

    Tomoloju emphasised Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, with over 370 ethnic groups, each with its own language and cultural peculiarities.

    He acknowledged organisers of the event for their efforts in promoting Nigerian culture.

    He also recognised the National Theatre as a legacy of Nigeria’s most ambitious and globally celebrated cultural event-FESTAC 77.

    NAN reports that the event featured a vibrant celebration of Nigerian culture, with performances, exhibitions, and discussions showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

    Guests included dignitaries, cultural icons, and stakeholders from the creative industry. (NAN)

    BAG/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Unilorin to establish film village -V-C

    Film village
    By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

    Ilorin, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Prof. Wahab Egbewole, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, said the university will support the Department of Performing Arts to establish a Film Village.

    Egbewole made this pledge in Ilorin while declaring open the 499 final year project performance titled;  “Agudua,” held at the Performing Arts Theatre, in the University on Tuesday.

    He said that the film village when established would enhance the department’s global presence and improve the university’s internally generated revenue (IGR).

    The Vice Chancellor congratulated the lecturers of the department and their students for keeping faith with the project since 1985.

    “I hope that people would pay to see various performances by the students in the nearest future,” Egbewole said.

    He said his vision is for the department to develop a strategy to turn the course into a revenue-generating venture for both the department and the University.

    In his remarks, Prof. Segun Oyewo, the Head of the Department of Performing Arts, said that the department reached a significant milestone because of the tremendous support of the Vice Chancellor and his management team.

    He added that the recent renovation of the Performing Arts Theatre was possible through the support of the Vice Chancellor.

    “The rich artistic traditions of the 499 final year project performance, which has flourished since 1985, started with five groups of 18 students and now expanding to 18 groups performing for over 18 days.

    “The theatre is experiencing significant patronage, and with the continued support of the administration, it will be transformed into a premier destination for theatre entertainment in Nigeria and Africa,” Oyewo said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    FATY/DEB/EAL
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    Edited by Debo Oshundun/Ekemini Ladejobi

  • Mr Eazi seeks more collaboration in education, sports

    ‘My new interest in Africa are education, sports’ says Mr Eazi

    Mr Eazi, founder of the Choplife Foundation
    Collaboration
    By Aderonke Ojediran
    Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Nigeria’s afrobeats artiste and entrepreneur, Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi, has called for more collaborations in education and sports in Africa.
    Mr Eazi said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Tuesday.
    “As we grow in life, there’s this self awareness that drives us into new passion, education is the bedrock of any forward thinking nation, as Africans I believe we need to be more deliberate about creating the right environment for learning.
     “I recently visited Rwanda, engaging in
    several significant events and meetings.
    One of my highlight was attending the NBA Basketball Africa League (BAL) finals between the champions Petrol De Luanda and Al Ahly ly.
    “This event showcased the best of African
    basketball talent, and undoubtedly my presence underscored  support for the continent’s sports growth and development,” he said.
    Mr Eazi said he had also visited various Rwandan companies for his Choplife gaming company as he explores potential partnerships and collaborations to expand his entrepreneurial ventures.
    “This will increase my impact on African youths and the creative industry.
    “A key part of my visit involved meeting with the Ministry of sports.
    “This discussion focused on potential collaborations for sports development and creating more opportunities for young people
    “I also engaged with the education sector to discuss potential collaborations with the Choplife Foundation.
    “These partnerships aim to leverage my commitment toward providing resources, opportunities, and platforms for deserving students in the region,” he said.
    He said he was seeking partnerships in Rwanda because the country needed more support in the education and sports sectors.
    Mr Eazi said  he also had ongoing projects in Nigeria and Ghana. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    OAF/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Production of Ola Rotimi’s historical stage play, Kurunmi, excites Lagos

     

    Production of Ola Rotimi’s historical stage play, Kurunmi, excites Lagos

     

     

    Play

    By Aderonke Ojediran

    Lagos, June 10, 2024 (NAN) Lagos State Government has expressed delight at the production of ‘Kurunmi’, a historical stage play written by Prof. Ola Rotimi.

     

    At a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and  Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinfa,  described the play as an excellent representation of Lagos State cultural wealth.

     

    She said that the performance would take place at Alliance Francaise on June 13 and June 14, as well as at the Terra Kulture Arena on July 20 and July 21.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ‘Kurunmi’ explored the themes of collectivity, political and military leadership, social change and development, responsible leadership, control and accountability.

     

    ” I recognise the significance of arts and culture in promoting tourism and showcasing our state’s diversity.

    “The play is an excellent representation of our cultural wealth, which I encourage everyone to experience.

     

    “‘Kurunmi’ will expose and awaken the consciousness of youths to the role of good leadership anywhere they find themselves,” she said.

     

    According to her, the stage play reflects the THEMES Plus Agenda of Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration to revive and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Lagos and the entire Africa.

     

    “It is in line with the vision of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to make Lagos State a preferred destination for tourism.

     

    “This play is a masterpiece that showcases our rich cultural heritage steeped in tradition and history.

    “It showcases the talents of our vibrant arts industry and the creativity of our theatre practitioners,” she added.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the play tells the story of a legendary Yoruba king, Kúrunmí, who embodied courage, wisdom and good leadership.

     

    The commissioner said that the play weaved together elements of history, culture and entertainment.

     

    The stage play, which has seventy-five casts and produced in partnership with Stagecraft Studios Film and Production, will be taken to the three senatorial districts of Lagos State.

     

    Its Director, Mr Oladapo Muyideen, popularly called Lala, commended Lagos State Government for supporting and funding the project for cultural rebirth, especially among youths.

     

    “We know that the cultural rebirth and re-orientation, which we have been talking about, can happen faster through entertainment and arts.

     

    “Therefore, by attending this play, you will be entertained and gain a deeper understanding of our rich cultural heritage,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    OAF/KTO/IGO

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    Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo/Ijeoma Popoola

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Nigerian chef attempts to break GWR grilling marathon

    Challenge
    By Taiye Olayemi
    Lagos, June 10, 2024 (NAN) A Nigerian accountant turned chef, Edwin Akinsowon, is attempting to break a Guinness World Record (GWR) of 80 hours in grilling.
    He is attempting to set a new record of 82 hours or more.
    Akinsowon, an indigene of Ondo State, in a statement on Monday said that the activity would start from 1.00 a.m. on June 15 until he is able to break the record.
    He noted that drawing from his diverse background and motivated by a deep-seated belief in achieving the extraordinary, he aimed to grill for over 82 hours, surpassing the current record of 80 hours.
    According to him, the activity will take place beside Kayser Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos.
    “To break the record, I must grill for over 81 hours in a public area, adhering to specific guidelines set by Guinness World Records.
    “I plan to grill for more than 82 hours, using only charcoal as modern grilling machines are not permitted.
    “The event will be open to the public, and I’ll have a medical certificate to ensure the quality and safety of the food,” he said.
    Akinsowon described himself as a passionate griller and aspiring world champion, with a background in accounting and a deep love for the culinary arts.
    He said his journey from an arts student to a record-breaking hopeful was a story of perseverance and unwavering belief in the power of dreams.
    On the inspiration behind this ambitious attempt, Akinsowon said, “Motivation is an inner drive that pushes you beyond expectations.
    “I have always believed that nothing is impossible. Though I was an arts student in secondary school and later studied accounting in higher education, I found my true calling in the restaurant business.
    “Learning to grill from my grandfather in Ondo town ignited my passion for barbecue.”
    He noted that his attempt toward this record-breaking attempt began two years ago and had engaged an expert trainer in 2023 who dedicated a month to honing his grilling skills.
    “From childhood, I envisioned myself as a world champion. Working in a restaurant solidified my dream of achieving greatness through grilling.
    “However, the path has not been without challenges, financial constraints and a demanding work ethic have been significant hurdles, but my determination to succeed keeps me going.
    “Managing rest breaks and staying active throughout the attempt will be crucial. Guinness allows only rest breaks, not sleeping time. I aim to remain active for the full four days,
    “The Lagos state government is providing emergency services to ensure safety and all foods prepared will undergo government approval to maintain high standards.
    “I solicit for private and public companies’ support, federal and state government support as I will be embarking on the journey.
    “We are inviting everybody to come and experience greatness at the venue,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)
    PTB/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

  • Otedola joins Kendall Jenner, Viola Davis as L’Oréal Paris ambassador

    Otedola joins Kendall Jenner,Viola Davis as L’Oréal’s ambassado

    Temi Otedola, the African Digital Brand Ambassador for L’Oréal Paris Makeup

     

     

     

     

    Ambassador

    By Aderonke Ojediran

     

    Lagos, June 9, 2024 (NAN) One of the leading cosmetic brands in the world, L’Oréal Paris, has unveiled Nigerian actress, Temi Otedola, as its new ‘African Digital Brand Ambassador’.

     

    This was disclosed in a statement signed by Issima Oniangue, the General Manager for Makeup in the Sub-Saharan Africa Zone at L’Oréal, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Sunday.

     

     

    “Temi’s unique style, confidence, and passion for beauty perfectly embodies the L’Oréal Paris ethos of empowerment and sophistication.

     

     

    “This partnership marks a new era of glamour and innovation in beauty for the region as we continue to celebrate and cater to the diverse beauty of African women.

     

    “We are excited to inspire and bring the best of beauty to every corner of the continent as the number one beauty brand worldwide, L’Oréal Paris has empowered women for more than 110 years with our state-of-the-art products backed by scientific advances,” she said

     

     

    She further stated that their partnerships and initiatives are dedicated to promoting equal rights and self-esteem.

     

    “Because I’m Worth It”,  the L’Oréal Paris slogan coined in 1971, is no less relevant today,” she said.

     

    “For many years, it has honoured extraordinary women who volunteer their time to serve their communities. Temi Otedola’s journey with L’Oréal Paris Makeup promises to celebrate beauty, empowerment, and communities.

     

     

    “Temi’s journey with L’Oréal Paris Makeup promises to celebrate beauty, empowerment, and cultural richness, resonating with audiences across Sub Saharan Africa and beyond.

     

     

     

    “This is a historic partnership as Otedola will serve as the new digital ambassador for Africa and the first ever Nigerian to represent the iconic brand.

     

     

    “Standing alongside fellow ambassadors including Kendall Jenner and Viola Davis, this collaboration marks a significant milestone in celebrating beauty in all its forms across the African continent.

     

     

    “As the face of L’Oréal Paris Makeup, Temi will headline the latest Infallible Makeup Range campaigns, showcasing her unique style and celebrating the diverse beauty of Africa,” she said.

     

     

    In her response, Otedola expressed excitement and honour as she promised to be a great ambassador.

     

     

    “Words cannot describe how honoured I am to partner with L’Oréal Paris Makeup. L’Oréal Paris was amongst the first beauty products I was introduced to as a young girl playing with my mother’s makeup. I have grown up loving their products and deeply respecting the company’s values and vision.

     

     

    “The L’Oréal Paris woman is someone I deeply resonate with, confident, unapologetic, and always striving to make a difference in the world.

     

     

    “I’m so excited to begin this beautiful journey with a brand that truly has proven its excellence for years,” Otedola said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    OAF/FAA
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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

     

     

  • NAFEST 2024 to hold in FCT, says Asika

     

    NAFEST

    By Joshua Olomu

    Abuja, June 9, 2024 (NAN) The Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Obi Asika, says the 2024 edition of the  National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) will be held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    He disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

    NAFEST, a flagship programme  of NCAA, is acclaimed to  be a veritable cultural platform for promoting  national unity, mutual acceptance and peaceful co-existence among  Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic , culture and religiousl differences.

    According to Asika, the 2024 edition of the annual cultural fiesta which is the first under his watch as director-general of NCAC, will be held in the nation’s capital to resonate the call for national unity.

    He said the FCT edition was symbolic of the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and will chart new trajectory for the cultural fiesta.

    He added that NAFEST had come a long way, and it was high time it was improved with new innovations and packaged to attract larger audiences, including the  diaspora community.

    “This year’s NAFEST will be hosted in the FCT and we are trying to inolve all stakeholders, especially the FCT authority because we need collaborations,.

    “Abuja, first of all is a beautiful city, and then is Nigeria’s capital, so, we are  set to give it the global media attention it deserves.

    “The festival will be revamped with some key elements and initiatives that are brand new, and it will be exciting   because it will  be  another way to showcase incredible things that Nigeria has to offer.

     

    “Nigeria is a melting point of incredible contents and talents, and most of these  have just been happening randomly without any real organisational support from the government.

    “But all of that have changed and the deliverables and roadmap are being put together  and we are just beginning implementation,” he said.

    The NCAC helmsman said that culture was a veritable tool for economic transformation, adding that innovations to boost economic activities in the FCT and  Nigeria at large would be introduced  into the festival.

    “Besides its entertainment benefits and what it represents nationally, NAFEST can be a  source of national  revenue  as obtainable  in other  climes.”

    According to him, youth participation shall be encouraged by ensuring that Nigeria music stars from across the country perform at the festival.

    “We want  expansion of culture, business expansion, economic expansion in the territory and then in every other edition of the festival.

    “If you live in Abuja, I want you to come and say I want my NAFEST tickets because we have to bring one star at least from every state.

    “I want to put Burna Boy and other stars at   the national stadium because I think Abuja people and  Nigerians  deserve to experience the biggest and the best.

    “Every Nigerian state has something it can bring to the table and the opportunity will be given, because we expect at least  10,000 people in the stadium because of  NAFEST,” he said.

    Asika said the seventh edition of the annual International Arts and Crafts Festival (INAC), also a flagship programme of the NCAC, will also be repositioned to have more international participation.

    “INAC is going to run for at least two weeks in our arts village toward the end of the year, and that will be after NAFEST, which is holding for a week.

    “We really need to get more African countries on board for INAC, we want their participation, as we already have countries outside the continent among participants,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

    JOSH/FAA

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    Edited by Folasade Adeniran

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • AFFF: FG to showcase Nigerian rich cuisine globally

    AFFF: FG to showcase Nigerian rich cuisine globally

    Minister of Tourism Mrs Lola Ade-John

    Participation

    By Priscilla Osaje

    Abuja, June 8, 2024(NAN) The Ministry of Tourism, has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to showcase Nigerian rich cuisine to the world at the Afro Flavour Food Festival (AFFF) in the U.S.

    The Minister of Tourism, Mrs Lola Ade-John disclosed this in a statement by Ms Elizabeth Ofili, Special Adviser on Media to the minister, on Saturday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Afro Flavour Food Festival(AFFF) is slated for July 6 and Aug. 3, at Manchester UK and Maryland in U.S.

    According to her, participating in such event would help to showcase and promote Nigerian cuisine, in order to attract global attention to the richness and diversity of Nigerian foods.

    She said that this great opportunity would foster the promotion of inbound tourism into Nigeria, built around the diversity of Nigerian culture and how this feeds into the country’s cuisine and culinary offerings and experiences.

    “The Afro Flavour Food Festival is a wonderful initiative that celebrates Africa’s rich culinary heritage, cultural diversity, vibrant fashion, music and art.

    “Food tourism is indeed a significant component of the tourism sector, and this festival provides a significant platform to showcase the best of Nigerian and African cuisine and culture to an international audience.

    “I wish to assure you that I fully endorse this festival and will ensure that the Ministry of Tourism provides the necessary support.

    “Such initiatives are invaluable in promoting cultural exchange and enhancing the global profile of Nigerian and African cuisine and culture,” she said.

    The minister further said that Afro Flavour Food Festival is a prestigious event that celebrates African culture, food, music, and art, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the content.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PO/JPE

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    Edited by Joseph Edeh