By Omotunde Alawode
The national headquarters of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has shown its readiness to collaborate with The Drum Online Media Incorporation, the organizers of the annual Pan-Afrika Drum Festival In Canada, to organize the 2024 edition of Pan-Afrika Drum Festival, on June 27 and 28, in Mississauga and Toronto, Canada.
This was contained in a press statement made available to the media by the convener of the prestigious global cultural festival, Prince Segun Akanni. Akanni said, some months ago, a letter of partnership was sent to Dr. Chris Isiguzo, president, NUJ, to partner with the organization towards holding the African Media Nite Out, as part of activities to celebrate the 2024 edition of Pan-Afrika Drum Festival.
Furthermore, Isiguzo disclosed that the union would collaborate with Akanni, publisher of The Drum Online Media Incorporation and convener of Pan-Afrika Drum Festival, to organise the inaugural edition of Africa Media Nite Out, scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Fuzion Banquet Hall, Mississauga.
The NUJ president, with regard to the partnership, said, “We have carefully reviewed your proposal and we are excited about the opportunity to partner with your organization on this remarkable cultural festival.
“NUJ recognizes the significance of cultural festivals in fostering unity, inclusivity and celebrating the rich and diverse heritage of Africa.
“Your initiative to integrate various African drum festivals into a unified Pan-Afrika Drum Festival aligns with our core values of unity and promoting African cultural heritage, with the theme “Exploring the Dynamism of African Drums and Canadian Multiculturalism for Global Unity, Inclusivity and Development,” which speaks to the heart of multiculturalism and diversity, themes we deeply appreciate and advocate.
“We are honoured to contribute to the success of this festival and the Africa Media Nite Out. We understand the importance of recognising and celebrating Canadian and African journalists who have made remarkable contributions to the field of journalism and the betterment of society.
“The collaboration between the NUJ and your organisation in the selection and honour of media personalities is an opportunity we eagerly embrace.
“Furthermore, we are committed to supporting the overall organisation of the 2024 Drum Festival in Canada.
“We believe that our vibrant media landscape in Nigeria can play a pivotal role in promoting the festival, including the symposium, Pan Afrika Drum Festival, art exhibition, drum competitions, beauty pageant show and cultural performances, which are commendable and reflect the rich tapestry of African culture.
“We are eager to contribute in making these events a resounding success. We hope that this partnership will not only enhance the festival’s success but also provide valuable experience for African journalists, creating a bridge between our vibrant media community and the harmonious Canadian multi-ethnic society,” Isiguzo said.
The grand finale of the festival will be held on Friday, June, 28, 2024, at Wesley Hall, Milvan Drive, Toronto. This will be in commemoration of the Canadian Multicultural Day, which is held on June 27 every year.