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A Cultural Trilogy: Celebrating Diversity, Heritage, and the Inspiring Presence of Chief Dr. Dele Momodu in Calgary

Published

3 days ago

October 12, 2024

Eric

By Lanre Ajayi

The vibrant city of Calgary played host to an extraordinary three-day cultural celebration, A Cultural Trilogy, from September 26th to 28th, 2024, featuring the esteemed Chief Dr. Dele Momodu. This unique event, organized by Ethnik Festivals, brought together diverse communities and highlighted the richness of cultural heritage, business innovation, and artistic expression. Chief Dr. Dele Momodu, a globally recognized journalist, businessman, and cultural ambassador, graced the occasion with his presence, making it a landmark experience for the Nigerian and broader African community in Canada. His first-ever visit to Calgary was met with great excitement, high emotions, and warm hospitality, making it a truly memorable journey.

Day 1: Thursday, September 26, 2024

Morning and Afternoon Visits

The event kicked off with a courtesy visit to Osuji & Smith Law Firm at noon. Being the largest Black-owned law firm in Canada, it was the perfect starting point to honor the African community’s achievements in the legal field. Chief Momodu engaged in insightful discussions, exchanged ideas with the team, and highlighted the importance of legal representation for African diaspora communities.

Following this, he visited Motif Photography Studio, the first Black-owned photography studio in Calgary, owned by a black young, talented entrepreneur. The atmosphere was lively as Chief Momodu commended the efforts of local entrepreneurs who are making significant strides in creative industries. The studio visit concluded with a special photography session capturing the momentous occasion, which Chief Momodu humorously referred to as “a moment to be framed for the books.”

After a delightful lunch break at Delish Dining, where Chief Momodu enjoyed a traditional Nigerian dish of Eba and Egusi soup, the delegation returned to the Sheraton Eau Claire Hotel for a short rest, preparing for an eventful evening ahead.

Evening Event: University of Calgary

With Rondel Roberts in the middle and the Dean of the Faculty of African Studies

In the evening, Chief Momodu made his way to the University of Calgary, where he delivered a keynote address at the Department of African Studies. The venue was filled with eager students, faculty members, and community leaders. His speech, centered around “The Role of Youth in Shaping Africa’s Future,” was both powerful and thought-provoking, leaving the audience deeply moved. Following the address, a lively Q&A session allowed attendees to engage directly with Chief Momodu, discussing topics ranging from media representation to youth leadership.

The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural performance by the Rondel Roberts Band, a local Calgary-based group that showcased a fusion of Afro-beat and jazz. Tobi, a dynamic solo artist, added to the spirit of the evening, setting the stage for an unforgettable night that reflected the rich musical heritage of the African continent.

Day 2: Friday, September 27, 2024

Morning and Afternoon Highlights

Day 2 began with a courtesy visit to Flavours Restaurant, the first Nigerian restaurant in Calgary. The aroma of Jollof rice, plantains, and suya filled the air as Chief Momodu, alongside local business leaders and government officials, engaged in a casual yet impactful discussion on the economic contributions of African businesses in Canada. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and potential of the African business community in diaspora.

Chief Momodu’s admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit was evident as he mingled with various business owners, offering words of encouragement and sharing his own journey of building a transcontinental media empire.

Evening Event: International Business Summit & Cocktail Reception

The evening unfolded at the Central Library, Downtown Calgary, where the International Business Summit & Cocktail Reception took place. The grand venue was abuzz with activity as dignitaries, local businesses, and community leaders arrived, dressed in their finest attire. The event opened with a red-carpet welcome, where guests were treated to performances by the Young Bhangra Club of Calgary, setting a vibrant and inclusive tone for the night.

A series of business presentations followed, featuring leading entrepreneurs such as Alabi Adenekan of JL13 Concept Inc., Tola Jimoh of Calgary Luxury Photography, and Samusideen Kazeem from KSA Immigration.

The evening reached a high point with a panel discussion involving local business leaders, followed by a networking session where attendees had the chance to connect over a curated menu featuring Jollof rice, grilled shrimp, and an array of Nigerian delicacies. The night was not just a business gathering, but a celebration of shared heritage, entrepreneurship, and the collective future of the African community in Canada.

Day 3: Saturday, September 28, 2024

Morning and Afternoon Visits

The final day of the trilogy began with a visit to Health Watch Medical Clinic, a prominent Nigerian-owned medical clinic in Calgary. Chief Momodu took time to interact with the staff, praising their dedication to community health and wellness.

He then proceeded to Treasure African Market, an Afro-Canadian grocery store owned by a royal descendant from Ile-Ife. The market, filled with African produce, spices, and crafts, felt like a nostalgic journey back to Nigeria, evoking deep emotions for Chief Momodu.

The store’s unique connection to the Yoruba heritage added a sentimental touch to the visit, as Chief Momodu reflected on the importance of preserving cultural identity in the diaspora.

Evening Event: Cultural Presentations & Storytelling Night

The grand finale of A Cultural Trilogy took place at the Central Library, featuring a spectacular showcase of diverse cultural performances. The evening was graced by the presence of Hon. Muhammad Yaseen, Alberta’s Minister of Trade, Immigration, and Multiculturalism, who emphasized the importance of embracing diversity in his welcome speech.

The highlight of the night was the White Hat Ceremony, a Calgary tradition symbolizing hospitality and community spirit. As Chief Momodu donned the iconic White Hat, an overwhelming sense of pride and emotion swept through the audience. For Chief Momodu, it was a moment of honor and acceptance, marking his deep connection with Calgary and its people.

With each performance, from Egyptian folk dance to Thai traditional music, Korean Samulnori drumming to Caribbean dance rhythms, the audience was transported across continents. The diversity of artistic expression and storytelling was a testament to the shared values of unity, resilience, and cultural pride.

The evening ended with heartfelt remarks by Chief Momodu, who expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the opportunity to experience Calgary’s vibrant multicultural scene. The audience responded with a standing ovation, a fitting end to a three-day celebration of heritage, creativity, and community.

The Emotional Impact

Throughout the three days, Chief Dr. Dele Momodu’s presence brought a sense of gravitas and inspiration. His personal reflections, candid conversations, and unwavering support for the African diaspora community left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. From the emotional resonance of the White Hat Ceremony to his joyful engagement with the youth and business leaders, each moment was filled with a sense of connection and shared purpose.

Conclusion

A Cultural Trilogy was more than just a series of events; it was a powerful reminder of the strength of cultural diversity and the importance of community. Chief Dr. Dele Momodu’s first visit to Calgary will be remembered as a milestone, a celebration of identity, and a call to action for continued collaboration and empowerment. His presence, heartfelt reflections, and inspiring words left a lasting impact on everyone who attended A Cultural Trilogy.

As the curtains closed on this memorable event, Chief Momodu expressed his eagerness to return for the upcoming International Art and Culture Festival, scheduled for February 21 and 22, 2025. This festival promises to be the largest cultural celebration of the year in Calgary, and Chief Momodu is looking forward to witnessing an even greater display of art, heritage, and diversity. With anticipation building, Calgary’s multicultural community is already preparing to make this an unforgettable showcase, further strengthening the ties that were forged during this historic visit.

Featured

NANTA Releases Tailwind Innovative Hashtag for WTM

Published

10 hours ago

October 15, 2024

Eric

The National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) on Monday confirmed its strategic participation as a registered exhibitor at the November 5th to 7th World Travel Market ( WTM) with a prolific and innovative hashtag, capturing its massive membership presence and marketing reach.

The beautiful electronic flyer design rolled out from the stable of the association public relations officer, Mrs Adeola Adewole, amply signifies the intent of the association leadership to maximise the full potential of digital technology in marketing communications as nanta members who have registered and confirmed their participation, are encouraged to further escalate their brand and organisational skills through the coloured electronic flyer embossed by the a colourful wtm logo, indicating NANTA registered pavilion for easy location for trade enquiries and information about Nigeria cultural tourism products and offerings.

The association, apart from the “I will be at WTM,” will weekly unveil additional hashtags to drive robust digital marketing presence and reach, targeting foreign trade opportunities interested in Nigeria cultural tourism market and in addition to tagging global tourism groups and tourism platforms thus saturating global media space with nanta’s exponential hunt for corporate communities and individuals on search engines looking for creative marketing links and ready markets.

On its wtm delegates platform, about a hundred members of the association with visas and confirmed hotel bookings have embraced the NANTA/WTM hashtag train with their pictures and agency’s identity, flourishing their Facebook, Instagram and other social media handles, deliberately tagging their vast local and international contacts which has endeared the association to the Reeds exhibition, organisers of the biggest global tourism trade event.

The reeds exhibition organisation urged participating individuals, trade groups, and exhibiting nations to the November 2024 event slated for excel London to invite friends and associates to join the happy world of cultural tourism to mingle, buy offering packages and share experiences from diverse cultures and peoples from over hundred countries.

Yinka Folami, President of NANTA, stated that the commitment of nanta to Nigeria cultural tourism promotion is unquestionable and a selfless determination to put Nigeria first before personal or group gain

“I have heard about people questioning our intentional patriotic efforts, and my answer is that we as Nigerians must support our country and people before we can be taken seriously. Many years ago, most of our nanta icons were invited by foreign airlines, all expenses paid to come to wtm and under study how to leverage on the opportunities and contacts at the trade event in order to help sell Nigeria to the world. Those were the good old days when our principals were more Nigeria centric, but things have changed, and we in nanta must take the initiative to revive and sustain the presence of Nigerian cultural tourism beyond our shores.”

Susan Akporiaye, the immediate past president of NANTA, who drove the NANTA WTM mission during her tenure as a deliverable tailwind string of economic gain for nanta members, expressed happiness at the participation of nanta members this year for the third time, which promises to be bigger and better.

“It’s a revolution, and we are happy for the massive interest and support from our members. We are also happy to have awakened the consciousness of Nigerians to the need to put our country above our anxieties and worries. We are not in competition with our country or any trade groups. I believe someone, a group, should show the way when things are down and nanta has burned candles, made huge sacrifices, and shown absolute patriotism and pride in what is ours, our culture and creative economy,” Akporiaye said.

Pastor (Mrs) Chinyere Umeasiegbu, NANTA’s first national deputy president, who is coordinating the groundswell participation of nanta family at WTM, disclosed that the number of NANTA members heading to the global tourism trade event may hit an all time high of about two hundred if those awaiting their visas scale through.

“Marketing Nigeria destination at WTM this year is a game of numbers, and we intend to positively as we always done to bring the world to our exhibition stand. It is a mission of possibilities, and we are determined to lead from the front. This is not a jamboree or recreational outing. It is strictly serious business to showcase Nigeria and what we can do and trust our members, the Nigerian community in the UK has been mobilised to storm our pavilion and support our efforts to make Nigeria a preferred destination,” she said.

Featured

Who’s Afraid of Atiku Abubakar? By Dele Momodu

Published

1 day ago

October 14, 2024

Eric

Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu, has replied Ayo Fayose, for calling on the Waziri Adamawa, Atiku Abubakar to stop contesting elections.

Read the response in full:

“WHO’S AFRAID OF ATIKU ABUBAKAR?

I have read a statement credited to former GOVERNOR PETER AYODELE FAYOSE advising ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR to stay away from ever contesting Presidential election again in Nigeria. This has raised a few salient questions.

Who are the younger persons he has in mind for 2027? MINISTER NYESOM WIKE or PRESIDENT TINUBU of APC that they are supporting openly while still in PDP?
It is undemocratic to tell anyone not to contest an election. If ATIKU contests and you don’t like him, you have the right to oppose him but you can’t stylishly disqualify him. AGE alone can’t invalidate a leader’s vision and mission in life or in politics. Who would have expected a PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN to come on the global stage after POTUS BARACK OBAMA? Or that a former POTUS DONALD TRUMP will be contesting against a much younger and smart woman VP KAMALA HARRIS today?

Let’s go further. What has been the effect of the participation of many of the younger folks in Nigerian politics of former GOVERNOR FAYOSE’s generation? (Absolute CALAMITY and CHAOS and unprecedented CORRUPTION). How many members of that generation have done meaningful and visible BUSINESS since leaving power other than continuing to live parasitically on the nation?

It must be noted that ATIKU ABUBAKAR has carried himself admirably as a true Democrat. He does not have a tyrannical grip on any STATE in Nigeria. He has never sponsored thugs or INEC to hijack elections. If GOD has blessed him with good health, what stops him from contesting? Why did the proponents of younger candidates not support VP YEMI OSINBAJO, ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI, CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI, OMOYELE SOWORE, AMINU WAZIRI TAMBUWAL, DONALD DUKE, KAYODE FAYEMI, NASIR EL RUFAI, PETER OBI, RABIU MUSA KWANKWASO, and others but they worked actively to install PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU!!

Is FAYOSE assuring us that members of their group will soon come out boldly and openly to advise TINUBU not to contest in 2027?” – DELE MOMODU speaks

Featured

FirstBank Celebrates 63 Years of Golfing with Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship

Published

2 days ago

October 13, 2024

Eric

FirstBank, Nigeria’s premier financial institution and leading provider of financial inclusion services, is proud to announce the 63rd edition of the FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship. This prestigious international golf tournament, held under the First@Sports initiative, reinforces FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to sports development and nation-building.

A Legacy of Sporting Excellence

For over six decades, FirstBank has been a driving force in promoting sports in Nigeria, with a focus on golf, polo, and tennis. The FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship stands tall as Nigeria’s most esteemed international golf tournament, attracting top amateur golfers from around the globe.

Unveiling Talent and Fostering Success

This revered competition has become a springboard for success, propelling aspiring professionals to greatness. Many past winners have ascended to the elite professional class, while others have discovered their potential within the tournament’s nurturing environment. The championship provides a global stage for amateur golfers to showcase their skills, earn valuable World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, and propel their careers.

This Year’s Edition

The 63rd FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship will take place at the golf club of Ikoyi Club 1938 from November 18-24, 2024. This edition introduces two exciting components:

“Search for 4 Stars” – empowering 150 young aspiring male & female golfers aged 18-30, currently working as caddies at Ikoyi Club.
“Championship Kitty” – allowing golfers with a handicap of 10 and above to participate, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

The Corporate Golf Challenge for Charity continues, with net proceeds from team entry fees donated to charities/NGOs under the FirstBank SPARK initiative.

Partnerships and Collaborations

FirstBank has forged strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations to amplify the impact of this year’s championship. These collaborations align with the Bank’s objectives, leveraging collective expertise to create a world-class experience for participants and spectators.

WHAT THEY SAY…

“We are delighted to announce this year’s edition of the Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship. As we celebrate 63 years of sponsoring the Championship, we reaffirm our dedication to empowering Nigerian youth and promoting national development. Golf has the power to unite, inspire, and transform lives. Through this tournament, we’ve witnessed remarkable success stories, from amateur golfers turning pro to community development initiatives driving positive change. FirstBank remains committed to supporting sports and development initiatives that shape Nigeria’s future and cement its position as a leader in Africa” – Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank

On behalf of Ikoyi Club 1938 Golf Club, we are proud and excited to host the FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship once again. This remarkable 62-year partnership has consistently inspired amateur golfers to push their limits and has paved the way for those aspiring to become professional players.

We are confident that the 63rd edition will continue to uphold the excellence of previous tournaments. We warmly welcome FirstBank, the valued Strategic Partners, and all participating golfers and guests to Ikoyi Club 1938 Golf Club – Tade Adekunle, Golf Captain, Ikoyi Club 1938

Concierge Sports is honoured to serve as the Consultant and Event Manager for the prestigious FirstBank Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship. As we celebrate the 63rd edition of this iconic event, we are particularly excited about the introduction of new sub-events that enhance empowerment and inclusivity within the Championship.

We extend our gratitude to our long-standing Strategic Partners for their continued support and warmly welcome our newly onboarded partners. Their collaboration is integral to the success of this renowned tournament – Kayode Oguntayo, Concierge Sports

From 18th to 24th November, we will witness a thrilling week of golf, and we eagerly anticipate crowning the next Amateur Champion of the year.