Yomi Durojaye
...creative centre where you can dream dreams - Commissioner for Tourism, Toke-Benson
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unveiled the newly renovated J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.
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| R-L: Gov. Sanwo-Olu, Mrs. Toke-Benson and Qudus Onikeku |
It was unveiled during a a week long maiden edition of Afropolis Lagos Festival, an international festival of arts, creativity and innovation, as part of activities to mark the festival.
Sanwo-Olu also announced the appointment of Nigerian multimodal international artiste, Qudus Onikeku, as the Centre Director for the J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.
Sanwo-Olu said: “Qudus Onikeku will now be the Centre Director for the J Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History.
“Qudus is fit to manage this place. We are going to be relying on your expertise and skill for the proper management of this centre.
“He brought the idea of this Afropolis festival, for players in the creative sector to express themselves because we are aware that Lagos is home to lots of creative minds.
“This is a destination for the entire creative sector and people of innovation. It is appropriate for research, meetings, relaxation with lots of hospitality.”
According to him, it is a centre for the younger creatives to develop their talents.
“This is not a localised space, what we have here are things that bring the entire south west states together; you will see Obatala, Oranmiyan and other deities in the Yoruba kingdom.
“I am using this opportunity to say that we are deliberate in christening this place, it is open for the entire Yoruba race, everyone who wants to showcase anything creativity,” he added.
Speaking during the interview, The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the creative centre where a creative entrepreneurs can dream their dreams.
Token-Benson said the centre is not just about Lagos culture but embedded a collective dream, a dream of unity, understanding, and appreciation for the nation’s shared cultural identity.
“The John Randle Centre will serve as a beacon of knowledge, highlighting the profound contributions of our ancestors and the enduring spirit of our culture.
“It envisions a space where the stories of our forebears come alive, a place resonating with traditional music, showcasing intricate artistry, and sharing the vibrant narratives of our history.
“This centre is designed to foster a deep sense of connection and pride among all who visit.
“Importantly, this initiative is not only about preservation, it is about innovation.
“We invite our youth to engage with and reinterpret our heritage in contemporary ways, bridging the gap between generations and ensuring our culture remains dynamic and relevant,” she concluded.
Creative entrepreneurs, Historians, fun seekers were advised to visit J Randle Cultural Center where Afropolis Lagos Festival is currently going on to showcase their talents.
