ABEOKUTA — The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, has described Abeokuta as her second home, citing the warmth, hospitality and reception she receives whenever she visits the historic city.
The Minister made the remark while officially declaring open the 2026 Abeokuta Film Festival held on May 28, 2026, in Ogun State.
In her opening address, Barr. Musawa commended the convener and organizers of the festival for their commitment to promoting Nigeria’s creative industry and preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Before the event, the Minister paid a courtesy visit to the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and also visited the residence of Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, in Abeokuta.
The Minister noted that Abeokuta remains a cradle of arts, culture and literature, having produced globally celebrated personalities including Fela Kuti, Kizz Daniel, Wole Soyinka, Olusegun Obasanjo and M.K.O. Abiola. She also praised Aare Dr. Lai Labode Jnr., one of the festival’s patrons, describing him as the “Aare of Africa” for his role in bringing cultural ambassadors from over 40 countries to the recent Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the Royal Evergreen Award to the Alake of Egbaland through Dr. Lai Labode Jnr. The Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, also received a Meritorious Award in recognition of his contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s film and creative industry. Barr. Musawa personally presented the award and commended his outstanding service to the sector.
The festival also featured special recognition for former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, for his contributions to arts, culture and film development in Abeokuta, including the construction of the expansive pavilion that hosted the event. Other attractions included cultural dance performances, the Egbaliganza fashion showcase by Lai Labode Couture, film screenings, award presentations and children’s activities marking the Children’s Day celebration. Speaking at the event, Hon. Kehinde Soaga expressed appreciation to the Minister for attending the festival despite the public holiday, describing her presence as a testament to her dedication to national service and the advancement of Nigeria’s creative economy.
