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By Vivian Onyebukwa
The Artistic Pulse Festival (APF), Africa’s first sustainability and recycling festival, celebrated creativity and culture through a vibrant five-day event, which took place at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, recently.
The festival commenced with a spectacular opening ceremony, featuring a keynote presentation by Deputy President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, (NACCIMA), Chief (Dr.) Michael Olawale Cole, followed by remarks from Ms. Yemisi Ransome-Kuti.
Speaking at the event, the convener of the Artistic Pulse Festival (APF), Dr. Ngozi Omambala, affirmed that the event, with the theme “Footprints of Interconnectivity, Growth and Expansion: Creativity, Culture, Commerce and Innovation”, was a dynamic meeting point for artists, entrepreneurs, innovators and cultural enthusiasts who believe in the power of creativity to drive sustainable development.
Dr. Omambala, who is also the group managing director of NMO Management as well as the vice-chairman, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), stated that the APF proudly delivered Africa’s first sustainable recycling festival, powered by strategic partnership with Coca-Cola and recycling partner RecyclePoints, reinforcing the festival’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability, innovation and social impact.
Dr. Omambala recalled that the festival recorded outstanding success with exclusive screening of Omotola Jalade Ekeinde’s “Road Rogue” and “Ireke: Rise of the Maroons,” adding that the screenings were graced by Emmy-nominated journalist and film director, Peter Gbolahan Macjob.
On the 11th annual Pan-African Music Fashion Runway (MFR) – Legacy Edition, which held under the theme “Where Creativity Meets Culture,” at the Naval Dockyard, Lagos, Omambala noted that the event showcased innovative designers and pan-African models, celebrating heritage, excellence and modern African creativity. The runway displayed supermodels and eclectic designs, each telling a unique story. Designers included Naia, Gee Royal Fashion, AoAfriq, Uzuazomaro, Simeni and Top Dog.
The evening was crowned by a magical live performance by Grammy-nominated Afrobeat sensation, Made Kuti, grandson of Fela Kuti, who honored his family’s legacy while showcasing his own powerful music, alongside legendary steel pan maestro Mighty Dow from St. Martin, with the distinguished presence of matriarch of the Kuti clan, and co-founder of Lagos Island Connect, Yemisi Ransome-Kuti.
“This represented a defining highlight of the evening for award presentation of these three distinguished individuals,” Omambala said. “Each awardee was celebrated for their visionary leadership, enduring influence and transformative contributions to the growth and global positioning of Africa’s creative industries.”
This festival synergy focus of art, commerce and sustainability had a trade fair segment, which served as the commercial engine of the festival. The APF Trade Fair supported SMEs, drivers of the economy and contributors to Africa’s growth, particularly for women and youth.
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During the five-day programme, the resident art gallery presented a rich cultural identity through quality art pieces and life-size sculptures, reflecting the essence of the festival.
Also, the Creative-TechFormance showcased innovative segments blending poetry, music, technology and theatrical elements, creating an immersive experience.
In their remarks, some of the participants lauded the event for its strategies in fostering a business community and promoting art in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Chairperson of Creative and Entertainment Sector of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Obukome Ibru, commended the convener for her determination, commitment and love for the art and for sustaining the activity in Nigeria for the past 11 years.
She stated that the “Music Fashion Runway (MFR) would create impact positively in the creativity industry and upcoming artists in the industry”.
On his part, chief artist at the Artistic Pulse Festival, Made Kuti, described the Music Fashion Runway as an avenue for people to showcase their talents.
Made urged aspiring artists to master their craft, building a solid foundation so they can own their sound with confidence.
He emphasised the various methods youth can be encouraged by the government, parents and organizations: “Everything really depends on an individual household whereby the parents are open to being artistic in nature; then one would have less issues and challenges to encounter. When parents from traditional families push careers like being doctor, lawyer or engineer, it can lead to kids struggling to find their true calling.’’
He advised young ones to be serious in their studies, to be hardworking, focused and zealous in whatever they are doing in life.
Also speaking, co-founder of Lagos Island Connect, Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, commended the people of Africa for discovering a bunch of new talents in various sectors of the economy, including fashion, beads and accessories, among others.
The 11th Pan-African annual Music Fashion Runway went hybrid, featuring designers from across Africa who showcased their creativity both in person and online.
