By George Ozalla
The Center for Black African Arts & Civilization (CBAAC) Tuesday held its Annual Pan African Intercultural Dialogue in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Ministry’s premises in Abuja. The well-attended event, powered by The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy themed “Cultural Diplomacy and African Unity: Promoting Pan-African Intercultural Dialogue,” saw a gathering of thought leaders, diplomats, stakeholders, experts, school children, members of fourth estate of the realm and cultural ambassadors despite the early morning rain.
In her remarks, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr Hannatu Musa Musawa spotlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in today’s world, stating, “Today, I had the honour of joining thought leaders and cultural ambassadors at the Annual Dialogue of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC), themed “Cultural Diplomacy and African Unity: Promoting Pan-African Intercultural Dialogue.” In a time when Africa’s voice is rising stronger than ever, cultural diplomacy is not just a soft power strategy. It is a bridge. A bridge between nations, between generations, and across the diaspora.” Musawa further observed that Nigeria continues to take its place on global platforms, using stories, traditions, and creativity to shape perception and build unity, citing examples such as Cannes and PANAFEST.
The Minister also commended CBAAC’s Director General, Aisha Augie, for her tireless commitment to elevating African culture through CBAAC’s work. “Your passion is inspiring, and your efforts are not going unnoticed,” she said, adding, “As we move closer to FESTAC at 50, I honestly cannot wait. It will be a powerful opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine the future of African arts and civilization.”
Obviously excited Aisha Augie who expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to lead the Centre, praised her predecessors whose names have opened doors for her wherever she goes. She acknowledged the impact of their legacies on her work.
The keynote address, delivered by Professor Mudasiru Ilupeju Akanbi, delved into the historical context of Africa’s disunity, attributing it to European division of the continent along language lines and ideologies. He stressed the need for Africa to negotiate with Europe and the rest of the world to their own benefit, stating that “Europe will never leave Africa.” Akanbi suggested that Africa should focus on cohabitation and negotiation, allowing the continent to dictate its own terms.
Mr. Tunde Babawale also spoke, highlighting the existence of language similarities amongst African countries that can be leveraged to unite the continent. He noted that a return to Africa’s cultures and shared cultural values can reset FESTAC’s objectives of promoting African cultures and unity. Western influences on African culture and neocolonialism, he stated, have diminished the tempo of Africa’s unity established with FESTAC ’77.
The colourful event featured a scintillating performance by an energetic lady drummer, who got the audience moving to the rhythm of African beats. Cultural dances added a vibrant touch to the dialogue, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Africa.
CBAAC, now under the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy was established by Decree 69 of 1979 to promote African cultural heritage, preserve creative works, and organize events to project African cultures worldwide. It was set up following the success of FESTAC ’77 to serve as a Pan-African Heritage Centre, making Nigeria a hub for presenting, promoting, and propagating African cultural heritage and civilization.
