What is the meaning of Festac 77?
Festac (Second Festival of Black Arts and Culture) was an ambitious festival of arts, music, dance, literature and culture held in Lagos in 1977 which brought together artists from all over Africa and its diaspora.
Who composed for Festac 77?
According to Afolabi Alaja-Browne, the FESTAC Cantata was commissioned in 1974 by the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation in commemoration of the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC). 1 The festival took place in 1977 in Lagos, Nigeria, one year after Bankole’s demise.
How many countries participated in Festac 77?
48 countries
The Festival. The opening ceremony of the festival took place on 15 January 1977 inside the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. One of the highlights of the ceremony was a parade of participants representing 48 countries marching past visiting dignitaries, diplomats and the Nigerian Head of State, Olusegun Obasanjo.
Who executed FESTAC?
His successor swiftly and indefinitely suspended preparations for FESTAC ’75. While he later prepared for a FESTAC ’76 due to pressure from other committed countries, he was assassinated in 1976 by an abortive coup led by Lt. General Olusegun Obasanjo.
What is the history of FESTAC?
Festac town was originally named Festival Town till the name FESTAC was known. This festival was initially meant to be held in 1975 during the regime of General Yakubu Gowon but due to political instability, this festival was postponed till 1977 during General Olusegun Obasanjo’s Regime.
When did FESTAC start?
January 15, 1977
He blamed the socio-political challenges currently bedevilling the country on the international festival held in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 15, 1977 to February 12, 1977 known as the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.
What is the symbol of FESTAC?
The Benin Pendant Mask
The Benin Pendant Mask has become an iconic image of Benin art, and the British Museum version in particular was featured on Nigerian one Naira banknotes in 1973, and was chosen as the official emblem of the pan-Africanist FESTAC 77 cultural festival in 1977, so that this design is often known in modern Nigeria as the …
What does FESTAC mask represent?
The original mask, said to represent Queen Idia, mother of Oba Esigie, who ruled in the 16th century, was worn by Benin Obas as pendant during the Igue religious ceremonies and the Emobo rituals meant to remove evil spirits, and probably during memorial ceremonies for the ruler’s mother.
What are the impact of Festac 77 in Nigeria?
FESTAC 77 has promoted cultural dialogue which has enhanced mutual understanding between Nigeria and other countries. Understanding other cultures can prevent prejudice and hatred.
Is FESTAC a good place to live?
Festac is one of the best places to live with a family in Lagos, and it is one of the most peaceful places in Lagos. Several amenities can be found in this area, including reliable power supply, police and fire stations, state-of-the-art supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, and health centers.
Who created FESTAC?
Festac Town, which was built by the Federal Government in 1977 to house participants of the Second World Festival of Black Arts and Culture of 1977 (Festac ’77), is now a shadow of itself. When it was built in 1977, it was among the best in Africa.
What happened at FESTAC?
A pipeline explosion has occurred at the Abule-Ado area around Festac town in Amuwo Odofin Local Government area of Lagos State. The massive blast has reportedly rocked neighbouring areas, sparking a massive blaze that has destroyed nearby buildings including a school.