Exhibition showcasing Fela’s enduring legacy opens in Lagos
The three-month exhibition celebrating the life, music, activism, influence, and enduring legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has opened in Lagos.
The event, which will hold until December 28, is taking place at the Felabration Hall, Ecobank Pan African Centre, and is titled ‘Fela Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion’.
The exhibition offers a rich, immersive experience, showcasing rare archival items, never-before-seen photos, Mr Anikulapo-Kuti’s actual stage clothes, and vibrant installations that recreate iconic spaces like the Kalakuta Republic and the Afrika Shrine.
Speaking at the event on Sunday night, Papa Omotayo, founder of Whitespace Creative Agency and a leading part of the exhibition team, said it is an immersive experience that bridges generations through art, sound, and storytelling.
Mr Omotayo, who guided attendees through the halls, said the exhibition was inspired by Fela’s defiance and creativity.
“For us, this is more than an art show. It’s a three-month programme featuring concerts, talks, children’s workshops, and spoken word competitions, all aimed at engaging the next generation in the legacy of what it means to be Nigerian and creative. Originally staged in Paris, Afrobeat Rebellion has now been expanded for its Lagos debut in collaboration with the French Embassy and Musee Philharmonie,” he said.
According to Mr Omotayo, the Lagos edition is the most extensive yet, tracing Mr Anikulapo-Kuti’s journey from his early life and the birth of the Kalakuta Republic to his political resistance and global musical impact.
“This is about how Fela’s spirit breathes today. We created mirror narratives between the old Africa Shrine and the new one to show how his energy continues to inspire a new generation,” Mr Omotayo added.
Also, Laurent Favier, the Consul General of France in Nigeria, described the exhibition as an act of both cultural diplomacy and reclaiming Fela’s narrative.
”Supporting the Afrobeat Rebellion in Lagos reflects our belief that culture is a bridge. It is a logical and welcome follow-up to the successful exhibition in Paris. This project is both a celebration of Franco-Nigerian collaboration and a cultural gift, honouring Fela’s legacy while deepening the dialogue between our two nations,” Mr Favier said.
The highlight of the night was a powerful live performance by Mr Anikulapo-Kuti’s youngest son, Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti, and his band.
The band was joined by the acclaimed UK jazz group, Ezra Collective.
(NAN)
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