Kwara State Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, alongside Omoyeni “Yeni” Kuti—broadcaster, cultural entrepreneur, and daughter of late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has officially launched the Institute of Contemporary African Art & Film (ICAAF) in Ilorin on Monday, featuring a commemorative retrospective exhibition celebrating Fela’s life, music, activism, and cultural legacy.
The exhibition, titled “Fela — A Retrospective,” was presented by the Kwara State Ministry of Communications at the ICAAF facility along Ahmadu Bello Way, located beside the Ilorin Innovation Hub.
Delivering the keynote address at the ceremony, Governor AbdulRazaq commended the Ministry of Communications and project partners for initiating the creative space, urging youth across Kwara State to maximize the facility as an incubator for artistic expression and talent development.
“The Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film should serve as an open classroom where our students and young residents can explore creative arts, develop technical skills, and build sustainable careers,” Governor AbdulRazaq said.
“Our administration remains committed to creating platforms that connect Kwara’s youth to the global creative economy.” He added.
In her remarks, Omoyeni Kuti expressed gratitude to the Kwara State Government for honoring her father’s enduring contributions to pan-African consciousness, Afrobeat music, and social justice activism.
“On behalf of the Anikulapo-Kuti family, I deeply appreciate the Kwara State Government for recognizing my father and celebrating his legacy through this magnificent exhibition,” Kuti said.
“Fela used his art to speak truth to power and champion the cause of the common man. Honoring his life here in Kwara reinforces the power of culture as an instrument of social reform.” She added.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, emphasized that the exhibition was curated to engage visitors on Fela’s courageous advocacy and artistic philosophy.
“Fela was not merely an extraordinary musician; he was a fearless advocate for justice who challenged social inequality and spoke for the voiceless,” Olukoju noted.
“This retrospective offers our people an opportunity to reflect on his message while establishing Ilorin as a major hub for contemporary African art, film, and creative innovation.” She added.
Veteran actor and film producer, Alhaji Yinka Quadri during his remarks commended the state government for investing in arts and film infrastructure, noting that the ICAAF facility will provide critical technical support and inspiration for emerging filmmakers and creative practitioners across Nigeria.
The opening ceremony also featured addresses by the exhibition’s curatorial team, with Lead Curator Seun Alli delivering the welcome address outlining the structure of the multi-month showcase, while Assistant Curator Toyosi Taoreed detailed the archival collections, photography displays, film reels, and historical artifacts on display including documentation of Fela’s historic 1971 performance at the Niger Hotel in Ilorin.
The free public exhibition, produced in partnership with June Creative Art Advisory (JCAA), will run through December 31, 2026, incorporating guided tours, educational school visits, and technical creative workshops.
