society
Accelerating Tourism in Lagos: Cash Onadele’s The Noble Warrior as A Catalyst
Accelerating Tourism in Lagos: Cash Onadele’s The Noble Warrior as A Catalyst
By Bolaji Israel
In January, the Lagos State Government revealed that it generated over $71.6 million in revenue from tourism, hospitality, and entertainment sectors during the 2024 yuletide season.
The milestone reinforces Lagos’s status as the tourism and entertainment capital of Africa, underlining the crucial role that tourism plays in driving economic growth and preserving cultural heritage in the aquatic-rich state.
The end of the year season has evolved into a robust platform for showcasing Nigerian arts, culture, and music on a global stage. It nurtures community spirit, strengthens ties with the diaspora, and solidifies Lagos as a premier destination for cultural tourism.
Indeed, Lagos is firmly establishing itself as a hub for tourism in Africa, a trend significantly bolstered by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
However, there is a need for more. Governor Sanwo-Olu must sustain the current momentum by further harnessing various areas of tourism through strategic initiatives that can significantly enhance the state’s appeal to both local and international visitors.
One area to explore more deeply is cultural history, which resonates with identity, values and reorientation, as music, fashion, food and entertainment have received robust attention. A great starting point is a more deliberate and strategic canonisation and projection – beyond mere celebration – of our exemplary cultural and social crusaders such as Ogedengbe Agbogungboro, Wole Soyinka, Funmilayo Kuti, Obafemi Awolowo and others whose lives exemplify values such as selflessness, social equity, justice, fairness and incorruptibility, which are currently in short supply in the nation. Leveraging these icons to engage local and relevant diaspora community helps to rewrite erroneous histories, reorient delinquent youths and affirm our truly positive African identity and character in a manner that offers economic benefits.
A Nigerian-American prolific playwright, Cash Onadele, also known by his pseudonym Aiye-ko-Ooto’, wrote The Noble Warrior (Eni Ogun), as a tribute to the world-acclaimed Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, in 2024. The play presents a golden opportunity for Lagos to reinforce its tourism potential, particularly among the diaspora. I am unaware of any comparable literary endeavour like the 239-page play that so splendidly encapsulates and projects Kongi in his true elements as a bastion of African identity.
The performance of the play in Abeokuta and MUSON centre, Lagos, was so gripping and profound yet entertaining, featuring ample music and dance, as well as a sufficient infusion of the Yoruba language into the production. It was directed by the cerebral Segun Adefila who once again demonstrated his exceptional talent, and produced by Aiye-ko-Ooto himself. The production was such a vivid spectacle to behold laced with a fine dosage of all elements needed for an enjoyable yet instructive theatre moment. It was a delightful show to behold!
One of Nigeria’s most revered thespians, Pa Tunde Kelani, who witnessed the production captured it succinctly: “The play is dense and layered; a courageous blend of sheer theatre, dance and music with a life band music playing alongside which I found very interesting and courageous because it blended so well. The quality and technical is top-notch with no distraction. I congratulate the writer, director and the team for their courage in putting together such a complex play – long and running smoothly to the audience delight. I doff my hat.”
Aisha Adamu Augie, Director General, Centre For Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), a frontline agency that promotes, projects and preserves Nigeria’s cultural heritage also congratulated the producers and Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange as they celebrate Nigeria’s Global Literary Giant with the stage production of The Noble Warrior.
Packed with intrigues, hatred, humour, love, forgiveness, social struggle, and emancipation, The Noble Warrior is not merely a celebration of Soyinka’s legacy; it serves as a pivotal vehicle for promoting Yoruba culture, history and heritage. The play’s narrative revolves around Prince Oluwole, a character inspired by Soyinka, who embodies the values of leadership, bravery, justice and cultural pride as he leads his pre-colonial ijebu-Igbo community against European incursion. Although it is not a factual account of Soyinka’s life, the play creatively mirrors his persona and the ideals he represents, making it a compelling representation of Yoruba history and culture.
With the profundity, aesthetics and volume of literary corpus that Nigeria has been producing including plays, one wonders what is delaying a long overdue review of our curriculum for the crop of new vibrant writers to come in while we do away with the good old Shakespeare that has held sway for far too long!
It’s not every generation that a nation or community is blessed with the enduring presence of such a colossus like Soyinka after nine fascinating decades. As such, the brilliant minds driving the tourism train in Lagos State under the leadership of the Governor, Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Toke Benson Awoyinfa, and other officials like Mr Olatunde Lawal, Director of Tourism Promotion, must seize the moment to leverage the play as a launchpad for enhancing Lagos’s rising tourism profile.
For instance, by sponsoring command performances for diplomats and international communities in Lagos, the government can promote the rich cultural tapestry of the Yoruba people, creating a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. It can also act as a catalyst for cultural reawakening, generating revenue and creating employment opportunities. By engaging local talent – from actors to stagehands – the production contributes to the creative economy, bolstering youth involvement.
Additionally, the government could extend its support by sponsoring performances across Nigeria and in countries with significant Yoruba-speaking populations, such as Benin and Togo. Furthermore, international tours to places like Brazil and Cuba, where historical ties to Yoruba culture exist, could enhance Lagos’s standing as a cultural hub. Such initiatives would not only showcase the play but also draw attention to the broader cultural heritage of Nigeria, enticing tourists from around the globe.
Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated considerable support for the arts and culture in Lagos, but there remains an urgent need to communicate the value of Yoruba culture to the international community. The Noble Warrior represents a significant opportunity for the government to market Lagos as a premier destination for cultural tourism. By aligning this initiative with the broader objectives of the state’s tourism strategy, the government can attract diplomats and international visitors eager to experience the richness of Nigerian culture. For the government, facilitating partnerships with cultural organisations and securing funding for the play will be a game changer, and showcasing the production on a grand scale would be a masterstroke.
The play is not just an artistic endeavour; it is also an essential narrative that fosters cultural identity and pride. In an era where young Nigerians often grapple with issues of identity and cultural erosion, it could serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of heritage. By integrating the play into educational curricula, particularly for secondary school students, the Lagos government can foster a deeper understanding of cultural history among the youths. This initiative could rekindle interest in literature and the arts, which have seen a decline in recent years.
Moreover, the government should consider purchasing copies of the play for high school libraries, ensuring that students have access to literature that reflects their culture. Commissioning a special version of the play tailored for school performances would further enhance its educational value and encourage engagement among young audiences.
In conclusion, the intersection of The Noble Warrior and Lagos’s tourism strategy presents a unique opportunity for the state to enhance its cultural footprint. By embracing the play, Lagos can not only honour the legacy of Wole Soyinka but also reinforce its position as a beacon of culture and creativity in Africa and beyond. This is an opportunity for Lagos to shine on the global stage, showcasing the richness of Yoruba culture and the spirit of its people.
society
Rt Hon Treasure Edwin Inyang Appointed Secretary General to the Government of UKA (Worldwide)
Rt Hon Treasure Edwin Inyang Appointed Secretary General to the Government of UKA (Worldwide)*
January 29, 2026 – A prestigious appointment has been announced in the reign of Emperor Solomon Wining 1st, recognizing Rt Hon Treasure Edwin Inyang as the *Secretary General to the Government of UKA (Worldwide)*. The official certificate, designated STE.001-1 E, was presented to Rt Hon Inyang during a ceremonial investiture.
As Secretary General, Rt Hon Treasure Edwin Inyang will *monitor and coordinate* the implementation of government policies and programmes, serve as an advisory institution to the Government, drive policy formulation, harmonization, and implementation, and oversee the activities of ministries, agencies, and departments.
The appointment was proclaimed by *Emperor Prof. Dr. Solomon Wining*, Emperor of the United Kingdom of Atlantics and Empire Worldwide, and co-signed by *Empress Prof. Dr. Sriwan Kingjun*, Empress of Attica Empire, under the auspices of the 5 Billions Humanitarian Projects Incorporated.
The ceremony underscores the commitment to strengthening governance and humanitarian initiatives within the UKA (Worldwide) jurisdiction, effective immediately in the reign of Emperor Solomon Wining 1st.
society
GENERAL BULAMA BIU MOURNS BOKO HARAM VICTIMS, CALLS FOR UNITY AND RENEWED EFFORTS FOR PEACE
GENERAL BULAMA BIU MOURNS BOKO HARAM VICTIMS, CALLS FOR UNITY AND RENEWED EFFORTS FOR PEACE
In a solemn message of condolence and resolve, Major General Abdulmalik Bulama Biu mni (Rtd), the Sarkin Yakin of Biu Emirate, has expressed profound grief over a recent deadly attack by Boko Haram insurgents on citizens at a work site. The attack, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives, has been condemned as a senseless and barbaric act of inhumanity.
The revered traditional and military leader extended his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, the entire people of Biu Emirate, Borno State, and all patriotic Nigerians affected by the tragedy. He described the victims as “innocent, peaceful, hardworking and committed citizens,” whose lives were tragically cut short.
General Biu lamented that the assault represents “one too many” such ruthless attacks, occurring at a time when communities are already engaged in immense personal and collective sacrifices to support government efforts in rebuilding devastated infrastructure and restoring hope.
In his statement, he offered prayers for the departed, saying, “May Almighty Allah forgive their souls and grant them Aljannan Firdaus.” He further urged the living to be encouraged by and uphold the spirit of sacrifice demonstrated by the victims.
Emphasizing the need for collective action, the retired Major General called on all citizens to redouble their efforts in building a virile community that future generations can be proud of. He specifically commended the “silent efforts” of some patriotic leaders working behind the scenes to end the security menace and encouraged all well-meaning Nigerians to join the cause for a better society.
“Together we can surmount the troubles,” he asserted, concluding with a prayer for divine intervention: “May Allah guide and protect us, free us from this terrible situation and restore an enduring peace, security, unity and prosperity. Amin.”
The statement serves as both a poignant tribute to the fallen and a clarion call for national solidarity in the face of persistent security challenges.
society
When a Nation Outgrows Its Care
When a Nation Outgrows Its Care.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
“Population Pressure, Poverty and the Politics of Responsibility.”
Nigeria is not merely growing. It is swelling and faster than its institutions, faster than its conscience and far faster than its capacity to care for those it produces. In a world already straining under inequality, climate stress and fragile governance, Nigeria has become a living paradox: immense human potential multiplied without the social, economic or political scaffolding required to sustain it.
This is not a demographic miracle. It is a governance failure colliding with cultural denial.
Across the globe, societies facing economic hardship typically respond by slowing population growth through education, access to healthcare and deliberate family planning. Nigeria, by contrast, expands relentlessly, even as schools decay, hospitals collapse, power grids fail and public trust erodes. The contradiction is jarring: a country that struggles to FEED, EDUCATE and EMPLOY its people continues to produce more lives than it can dignify.
And when the inevitable consequences arrive (unemployment, crime, desperation, migration) the blame is conveniently outsourced to government alone, as though citizens bear no agency, no RESPONSIBILITY, no ROLE in shaping their collective destiny.
This evasion is at the heart of Nigeria’s crisis.
The political economist Amartya Sen has long said that development is not merely about economic growth but about expanding human capabilities. Nigeria does the opposite. It multiplies human beings while shrinking the space in which they can thrive. The result is a society where life is abundant but opportunity is scarce, where children are born into structural neglect rather than possibility.
Governments matter. Bad governments destroy nations. Though no government, however competent, can sustainably provide for a population expanding without restraint in an environment devoid of planning, infrastructure and accountability.
This is where the conversation becomes uncomfortable and therefore necessary.
For decades, Nigerian leaders have failed spectacularly. Public education has been HOLLOWED out. Healthcare has become a LUXURY. Electricity remains UNRELIABLE. Social safety nets are virtually NONEXISTENT. Public funds vanish into PRIVATE POCKETS with brazen regularity. These are not disputed facts; they are lived realities acknowledged by development agencies, scholars and ordinary citizens alike.
Yet amid this collapse, REPRODUCTION continues unchecked, often CELEBRATED rather than QUESTIONED. Large families persist not as a strategy of hope but as a cultural reflex, untouched by economic logic or future consequence. Children are brought into circumstances where hunger is normalized, schooling is uncertain and survival is a daily contest.
The philosopher Hannah Arendt warned that irresponsibility flourishes where accountability is diffused. In Nigeria, responsibility has become a political orphan. The state blames history, colonialism or global systems. Citizens blame the state. Meanwhile, children inherit the cost of this mutual abdication.
International development scholars consistently emphasize that education (especially of girls) correlates strongly with smaller, healthier families and better economic outcomes. Nigeria has ignored this lesson at scale. Where education is weak, fertility remains high. Where healthcare is absent, birth becomes both risk and ritual. Where women lack autonomy, choice disappears.
This is not destiny. It is policy failure reinforced by social silence.
Religious and cultural institutions, which wield enormous influence, have largely avoided confronting the economic implications of unchecked population growth. Instead, they often frame reproduction as a moral absolute divorced from material reality. The result is a dangerous romanticism that sanctifies birth while neglecting life after birth.
The Kenyan scholar Ali Mazrui once observed that Africa’s tragedy is not lack of resources but lack of responsibility in managing abundance. Nigeria exemplifies this truth painfully. Rich in land, talent and natural wealth, the country behaves as though human life is an infinite resource requiring no investment beyond conception.
This mindset is unsustainable.
Around the world, nations that escaped mass poverty did so by aligning population growth with state capacity. They invested in people before multiplying them. They built systems before expanding demand. They treated citizens not as numbers but as future contributors whose welfare was essential to national survival.
Nigeria has inverted this logic. It produces demand without supply, citizens without systems, lives without ladders.
To say this is not to absolve government. It is to indict both leadership and followership in equal measure. Governance is not a one-way transaction. A society that demands accountability must also practice responsibility. Family planning is not a foreign conspiracy. It is a survival strategy. Reproductive choice is not moral decay. It is economic realism.
The Nigerian sociologist Adebayo Olukoshi has argued that development fails where political elites and social norms reinforce each other’s worst tendencies. In Nigeria, elite corruption meets popular denial, and the outcome is demographic pressure without developmental intent.
This pressure manifests everywhere: overcrowded classrooms, collapsing cities, rising youth unemployment and a mass exodus of talent seeking dignity elsewhere. Migration is not a dream; it is an indictment. People leave not because they hate their country, but because their country has failed to imagine a future with them in it.
And still, the cycle continues.
At some point, honesty must replace sentiment. A nation cannot endlessly reproduce its way out of poverty. Children are not economic policy. Birth is not development. Hope without planning is cruelty.
True patriotism requires difficult conversations. It demands confronting cultural habits that no longer serve collective survival. It insists on shared responsibility between state and citizen. It recognizes that bringing life into the world carries obligations that extend far beyond celebration.
Nigeria does not lack people. It lacks care, coordination and courage. The courage to align birth with dignity, growth with governance and culture with reality.
Until that reckoning occurs, complaints will continue, governments will rotate and generations will be born into a system that apologizes for its failures while reproducing them.
A nation that refuses to plan its future cannot complain when the future overwhelms it.
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