The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) has called for collaborations from the South African and Libyan governments to host the 45th anniversary of the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC ’77).

Oluwabunmi Amao, CBAAC director-general, in a statement on Monday said the two countries participated remarkably during the festival in 1977.

Ms Amao noted that their participation would contribute to the success of the 45th anniversary of the festival slated for December 5 to 11.

The CBAAC director-general, who paid courtesy visits to the high commissions of the countries in Abuja for further consultations and deliberations, recalled some of the remarkable events of FESTAC ’77.

Ms Amao said the festival was the largest Pan-African event that featured expression of African arts and culture in various forms.

According to her, the festival anniversary’s theme is ‘Celebrating Black and African Arts and Civilization, reliving the memories of FESTAC ’77@45.’

She called for full participation and partnership of the two countries to showcase their rich cultural heritage and to promote cultural dialogue among Nigeria, South Africa and Libya.

Ms Amao made reference to the epoch-making performance of the South African music icon, Miriam Makeba, the epitombe cultural troupe and the amandla symbol of struggle which were in CBAAC’s archives.

The CBAAC boss also mentioned the contributions of the South African delegation at FESTAC ’77.

“Also of a very worthy note was Nelson Mandela’s visit to CBAAC office in Nigeria after his release from prison to collect his certificate of citizenship of Glasgow which was as of that time in the centre’s custody,” explained Ms Amao.  “The arts and culture of the South African people is very dynamic and we consider it quite of immense importance to be fully incorporated in this programme.”

She added, “To this end, exhibition pavilion would be made available for each participating country and High Commission at a token fee as indicated in our promotional brochure.”

Ms Amao noted that the Libyan contingents had some of the most remarkable performances and participation in different art forms during FESTAC ’77 and that the footages and archival materials available in CBAAC’s custody were testimonials to the outstanding feats the Libyans achieved in Nigeria during FESTAC ’77.

She disclosed that a replication of the country’s historical performances 45 years ago would be something to look forward to.

(NAN)