Folorunsho Coker, the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation director-general, has ascribed the recent Burna Boy and Wizkid’s Grammy awards to efforts of all Nigerian artistes across the country.

Mr Coker, in a statement he issued in Abuja on Wednesday, noted that the “apotheosis of recognition of Nigerian creative expression in the global space in more recent times was the Grammy honours accorded to two Nigerian musicians,” Burna Boy and Wizkid in March.

He explained that the awards “appear as the culmination of the efforts of numerous artistes from the country,” whose various musical forms and styles “have widely come to be acknowledged as touchstones of excellence.”

“They define standards and set the artistic pace for a growing world community – whether in the genius of their productions, messages, or unique add-ons, like dance accompaniments,’’ said Mr Coker. “This is ranging, in no particular order, from Fela Anikulapo-Kuti to Haruna Ishola, Sonny Okosuns, William Onyeabor, and Oliver de Coque. Others include the Lijadu Sisters, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, Orlando Julius Ekemode, and I.K. Dairo – which has been as remarkable in its diversity as in the virtuosity of the individual talents.”

He also listed King Sunny Ade, Chief Stephen Osita Osadebey, Ebenezer Obey, Prince Nico Mbarga, Majek Fashek, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, Femi Kuti, 2Face, Nneka, Asa, D’Banj, PSquare, Banky W, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade; and, of course, Phyno, Timaya, Davido, Harry Song, and Sound Sultan as part of the artistes to be recognised.

“What has apparently made this pull stronger have been the huge expressions of Nigerian creativity – from music to film, and others,” Mr Coker stated.

(NAN)