Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has called for sustained investment in cultural development, stressing the need for institutions that preserve African history, nurture creativity and inspire future generations.
The governor made the call on Monday, October 26, 2026, while declaring open an exhibition titled Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: The Retrospective at the Institute of Contemporary African Art and Film (ICAAF) in Ilorin.
AbdulRazaq said development should go beyond roads and bridges to include cultural infrastructure that connects people with their history, broadens their imagination and challenges their thinking.
Describing the late Afrobeat legend as more than a musician, he noted that Fela used his music and artistic expression to question power, freedom, identity and justice.
The governor expressed hope that the exhibition would mark the beginning of sustained cultural development in Kwara, adding that while governments change, enduring institutions should continue to serve future generations.
The governor also recalled visiting Fela’s Shrine in Lagos in the late 1980s with friends and colleagues, noting the musician’s lasting influence on society.
He said the exhibition would give students opportunities to learn beyond the classroom, inspire artists, support researchers and encourage young people to explore creative expression.
Fela’s daughter, Yeni Kuti, expressed appreciation to the Kwara State Government for honouring her father’s legacy, describing him as a Nigerian and Pan-African icon whose influence transcended geographical boundaries.
She also thanked the exhibition’s sponsors, organisers and government officials for their support in making the event possible.
Organised by June Creative Art Advisory (JCAA), led by its founder, Mrs Shon Ali, the exhibition features photographs, archival materials, films, graphic works, music and historical objects documenting Fela’s life, artistic contributions and social influence. It also highlights his historic performance at the Niger Hotel in Ilorin on August 30, 1971.
According to a statement issued in Ilorin by the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, the exhibition will run until December 31, 2026, with free admission to the public. The programme will also include guided tours, school visits and workshops aimed at promoting cultural heritage, exposing young people to creative disciplines and supporting the growth of Kwara State’s creative economy.
Dignitaries at the opening included members of the Kwara State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, government officials, members of the Kuti family, General Alabi Isama and other invited guests.
AbdulRazaq emphasised that the initiative was not about claiming ownership of Fela’s story, but about creating a platform for younger generations to learn from his life and enduring legacy.