society
Garri Day Festival Targets Unity, Diversity Through Food – Obani Boyede
Garri Day Festival Targets Unity, Diversity Through Food – Obani Boyede
Sahara Weekly Reports That Chief Obani Oluwabiyi Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, founder of Theatre Centrik and organiser of the 2024 African Food and Drinks Festival, Garri Day, revealed that the event was intentionally crafted to use food as a means of fostering national unity, cohesion, and diversity in Nigeria while addressing issues of ethnicity, tribalism, and disunity.
Boyede, a cultural advocate who also leads the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI) in the Alimosho area of Lagos State, noted that the celebration would also contribute to development, as cohesion and unity are vital for national growth and advancement.
In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, the multi-talented thespian, traditionalist, cultural ambassador, and performance theatre icon shared insights during the annual event in Lagos over the weekend.
He reiterated his commitment to celebrating African culture with a special emphasis on Garri, a staple of African cuisine.
He stated, “The event was centered around cultural promotion and capacity building. We are celebrating the African Food and Drinks Festival, tagged Garri Day 2024. We leveraged the importance of food as a source of unity, bringing people together regardless of age or race, without discrimination, using Garri as a common denominator. We are promoting diversity across the nation. This is the 19th edition; we organise it year-round and promote our culture through various initiatives. We also host other cultural festivals under the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives.”
Looking ahead, Boyede expressed his vision for the next five years: “We aim to establish an empire where children can acquire general academic knowledge alongside African culture. We envision a school that incorporates Ifa and the total culture of Africa alongside essential subjects. That’s why we have established the University of Kulture as an academic institution to drive this mission.”
The event was held in partnership with the Lagos State Tourism Board, the University of Kulture, Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI), and other esteemed organisations.
Regarding community acceptance, he shared, “This is a community-based programme, and we have seen great turnout, as evidenced by the attendance at our summer programme. Although financial support is limited, we are persevering. Participants are enjoying it and they remain enthusiastic.”
On the support from the state government, he praised Hon. Toke Benson, the Lagos State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, for her endorsement of the forthcoming cultural fest, which he described as the mother of all festivals, and will take place at the same venue on November 16-17 this year to conclude the year’s activities.
“Frankly, a lack of funding has been a long-standing challenge from the Lagos State government, but this year we have received their support, for which we are very grateful. We are moving forward and not slowing down.”
Temitope Ojubanire, the Garri Queen 2024, remarked on the festival’s impact on the community, stating, “The food and culture festival, Garri Day, has been amazing, evident in the quality of people who turned out.”
She added, “Garri is a beloved staple that transcends food. It is recognided globally, from America to Africa, and symbolises love, unity, and cultural heritage. That’s why we celebrate culture through Garri, a cherished food staple among various tribes in Nigeria, enjoyed in different forms, including Koro and eba.”
Discussing the children’s participation, she reflected, “Events like this create lasting memories not only for adults but for kids as well. Growing up, I remember attending events with my mother, where I learned invaluable lessons that continue to inspire me to give back to society.”
Approximately 1,000 children participated in dance, competitions, songs, and cultural activities, showcasing exhibitions from Yoruba, Igbo, Efik, South African cultures, and others.
Speaking further, Ojubanire said she plans to engage further with the community, meeting children and stakeholders to promote cultural awareness through Garri, advocating for love and humanity as a volunteer and one of the visionaries at the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI) and University of Kulture.
The event, which held on August 24th, provided attendees with a day filled with cultural activities, including various Garri drinking and eba eating competitions, dance and drama performances, and numerous exhibitions.
The festival showcased a variety of Garri from across Africa, including Ijebu Garri with its fine texture and sweet taste, Ghanaian Garri with its spiced blend, Cameroonian Garri known for its crunchy texture and rich aroma, and traditional Nigerian Garri.
In addition to the culinary delights, the event featured a lineup of notable guests, including veteran actors, traditional rulers, and key figures from the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Tourism.
Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation
The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.
The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.
Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.
This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.
As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.
Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps
Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.
Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:
“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”
This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.
society
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria
In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.
The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.
According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.
“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”
Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.
By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.
For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.
As one youth participant reflected:
“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”
The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.
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