CBAAC celebrates 45 years of FESTAC 77
Chinyere Ndukwe-Oteh & Vanessa Onyenwe, Abuja
Echoes of FESTAC 77 reverberated in Abuja as the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC) held a public lecture and symposium, the theme: Deepening Intercultural Dialogue and Integration for Global Peace.
The aim was to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the second Festival of Black Arts and Culture (FESTAC) hosted by Nigeria in the year 1977.
Chief Host and the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, represented by Otunba Runsewe, Director General of National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), said it was a dream come true to relive that historical event which put the black race on the global map.
“CBAAC rehabilitated our consciousness today to know that FESTAC was unique and the biggest gathering of Blacks all over the world, forty-five years ago,” he said.
Amazing moments all through at Day one of Festac at 45!!
Beautiful People
Great Lectures
Fantastic PerformancesMore is coming and it's getting better!
You can still join us onsite or online. #cbaac#eventfirstday#Festacat45#blackartnotdarkart pic.twitter.com/rbiReaqzz1
— Centre For Black And African Arts And Civilization (@cbaac77) December 8, 2022
“It’s a huge success and glory to Nigeria. I believe every Nigerian must celebrate its forty-five-year anniversary.”
Director General of CBAAC, Oluwabunmi Ayobami Amao in her speech said FESTAC 77 helped to reunite the black race – an unprecedented feat.
“FESTAC equally took place to project African culture to the world and strengthen historical connections and relationships between Africa and the diaspora. Forty-Five years after FESTAC, Black and African people are beginning to take up their rightful places in the world.”
Amazing moments all through at Day one of Festac at 45!!
Beautiful People
Great Lectures
Fantastic PerformancesMore is coming and it's getting better! #cbaac#eventfirstday#Festacat45#blackartnotdarkart pic.twitter.com/wZrbvr7yMJ
— Centre For Black And African Arts And Civilization (@cbaac77) December 8, 2022
The Programme featured conversations on cultural diversity, nation building and Integration in Africa and the World,
The climax was an Award and Gala night to celebrate individuals who have contributed to the promotion and propagation of African cultural heritage.