Ecobank ignites Fela’s Afrobeat spirit in powerful cultural reawakening

Ecobank Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting African culture and creativity through the ongoing “Fela Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion” exhibition, which the bank says embodies its belief in the power of art to inspire transformation across the continent.

Speaking at the exhibition’s opening, Omoboye Edu, Head of SME, Ecobank Nigeria, said the initiative underscores the bank’s mission to drive innovation and cultural expression across Africa.

“Hosting Afrobeat Rebellion at EPAC aligns with our mission to showcase Africa’s creative energy,” Edu said.

“We are proud to celebrate Fela’s legacy and the spirit of Afrobeat in a space that encourages dialogue, imagination, and progress.”

The three-month exhibition, which opened on October 12 and runs until December 28, 2025, celebrates the life, music, and activism of the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, exploring his lasting influence as both an artist and a revolutionary.

Beyond paying homage to the Afrobeat legend, the event reinforces Ecobank’s broader goal of fostering economic growth through creative industries.

According to Edu, platforms like EPAC help strengthen entrepreneurship, collaboration, and cultural exchange — key drivers of Africa’s creative economy.

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the CEO of the Lagos State Film & Video Censors Board, Mrs. Bukola Agbaminoja, commended Ecobank for its consistent investment in Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.

“By hosting this exhibition, Ecobank reaffirms its belief in the power of art and culture to drive economic development,” she said.

“Creativity is not just an expression of identity; it’s a force that can reshape industries and spark innovation.”

Also in attendance, Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Nigeria, praised the exhibition as a model of cultural diplomacy and artistic exchange.

“Supporting this exhibition in Lagos reflects our belief that culture is a bridge between nations,” Favier noted.

“It builds on the success of the Paris edition, celebrating Franco-Nigerian collaboration and Fela’s enduring influence.”

Supported by the French Embassy in Nigeria, Ecobank, and other partners, the exhibition celebrates Fela’s dual legacy as a musical pioneer and fearless advocate for social justice.

The opening night featured electrifying performances by Ezra Collective, Seun Kuti, and others, setting the tone for a season of artistic reflection inspired by Fela’s Afrobeat revolution.

Upcoming highlights include The Talks — a thought-leadership series featuring Yeni Kuti, Prof. Oyeronke Oyewumi, Falana, Ade Bantu, Minna Salami, and Kadaria Ahmed — as well as Kalakuta Cinema, curated by S16 Collective, showcasing films such as Music Is a Weapon, Mami Wata, Timbuktu, and Finding Fela.

For younger visitors, the Young Rebels’ Corner offers creative workshops for children aged 6–15, including Rebel Scrapbook, Jam Station, and Anikulapo Design Workshop.

Other programmes include Karatu Book Readings, Manifesto: The Weapon of the Future, Òrò Abamì Spoken Word Competition, and Dance for Freedom, a performance workshop by The Mud Art Company.

Open to the public, Afrobeat Rebellion invites visitors to experience Fela’s legacy as a symbol of courage, creativity, and social change — reflecting Ecobank’s belief that empowering art is key to transforming society.