Nigeria: Notable musician hailing from Edo State Nigeria, Shallipopi recently hosted the homecoming concert. The Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City served as the venue for the event hosted on December 29.
The event was attended by several fans of the artist. The Governor of the Edo state, Godwin Obaseki was also present at the concert. He was supporting his government’s MEGA agenda.
Governor Obaseki championed various youth-centred initiatives within the creative sector under the MEGA Agenda. He has helped equip young talents with essential tools, resources, and platforms to nurture their abilities.
One of the most important steps that he has taken towards this mandate was the establishment of the world-class Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and soundstage. The aim of the establishment of the venue is to empower artists and filmmakers of the state.
Through this agenda, the governor wants to revive the lost glory of the Edo state and its position as Nigeria’s artistic and cultural nucleus. The authorities have recorded a decline in creatives in the region, and decided to find a solution for the issue.
The governor’s presence at the Homecoming concert was also a part of their mandate to promote the artists of the region.
Speaking at the Homecoming concert, the Governor highlighted the pivotal role of Edo youths in driving Africa’s creative engine. He emphasized the need for platforms which will aid young talents to showcase their innate skills and abilities. This in turn, will help in Ensuring a vibrant future for the state.
The state wants to become the hub for top-tier artists, said the governor. He further lauded Shallipopi’s success as a beacon of inspiration for upcoming artists in the state.
According to Obaseki: “I want to let young people know that Edo is back and they do not have to leave Edo to get the best in the world. Some of the best artists today in Nigeria and Africa are coming from Edo.
“This is Shallipopi; he is perhaps Nigeria’s number one artist today and he is from Edo. Imagine how many more Shallipopis are out here in the streets of Edo. So for us tonight, he is here as an inspiration and to encourage a lot of young people in Edo, to make them know that they too can make it.”
Thanking the Governor for his hospitality and commitment to boosting the creative industry in the state, Crown Uzama, professionally known as Shallipopi, expressed his excitement about being home, assuring fans of a great show ahead. According to him, “I feel great and excited. It is going to be a shutdown; go get your ticket and let us party.”
