The conference on ‘The Legacy of People of Nigerian Descent in Britain,’ took place on 7th October 2023 at the University of East London. The exciting line up of speakers and experts explored various aspects of British-Nigerian heritage, including history, art, music, culture and identity. The event formed part of the Home from Home project which celebrates the rich cultural heritage and contributions of British-Nigerians in the UK.
Participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions and gained valuable insights into the outstanding accomplishments of British-Nigerians as well as the challenges faced by the community.
After a traditional invocation by the singer, dancer and actor Abiola Dosunmu, Funmi Adewole, the conference moderator, introduced the programme.
Eminent historian, scholar and author, Prof Hakim Adi, gave brilliant insights into “The Contributions of British-Nigerians to the British Society”, followed by an extensive Q&A session.
Showing wonderful images of African hair designs, Lekia Lée, journalist, image activist and founder of Project Embrace discussed “Hair As Identity.” The topic will be reprised at Willesden Library on 25th May 2024.
Similarly, Juwon Ogungbe FRSA, the composer, singer and educationalist will revisit his talk on “The Legacy of Musicians of Nigerian Descent in the UK’s Music Eco-system”, at Willesden Library on 25th April 2024.
As part of Juwon Ogungbe’s presentation, the audience were given a surprise performance by musician, rapper, and emcee T.C. Official. Through his rap, he summarised all the British-Nigerian artists who have made their mark on the British music scene.
Hassan Aliyu FRSA, the President of Nigerian Arts Society UK, reminded the audience of the range and talent of “Contemporary Nigerian Artists in Britain”.
Florence Ọlájídé, educator, author of ‘Coconut’ and ‘My Culture Yoruba,’ raised the question of “Race and Identity.”
While Michelle Yaa, Founder of Way Wive Wordz Publishing, examined the topic of the “African indigenous spirituality and the Osun River Ritual.”
Finally, much laughter was provided by President Obonjo from the Lafta Republic at the end of the day, rounding up a wonderful, full and varied conference on the ‘The Legacy of People of Nigerian Descent in Britain.’
Later, a participant from the Conference gave the positive feedback:
“Thank you so much for putting together the conference ‘The Legacy of People of Nigerian Descent in Britain.’ It was a rich, inspiring, educative conference enriched with incredible calibre of speakers and talents.”
