Comrade Israel Bolaji, widely known as Bashorun, the Founder of Skills Over Substances And Paradigm Shift (SOSAP) Alliance, was among the distinguished individuals honoured at the 2024 edition of Kulturefest, an annual cultural celebration in Lagos State.
The Lagos Island – born communications professional, journalist, poet, advocate for youth, education, and culture was celebrated for his contributions. His recognition stems from over a decade of impactful advocacy and support for youth and the arts, awarded by the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI) and Theatre Centrik, in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Arts, Tourism, and Culture.
Through SOSAP Alliance, Bolaji mentors youths, helping them acquire technology skills, develop the right mindset, and understand the dangers of drugs and other illegal substances.
The organizers presented him with a Heritage Champion Award, recognizing his innovative contributions, bold vision, and unwavering commitment to showcasing Lagos’s rich cultural diversity. The award was presented during the annual Kulturefest event held recently in the Alimosho area of Lagos State.
Other notable awardees included the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University and King Joshua Godson Abiodun.
In her remarks, Lagos Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson Awoyinka, expressed pride in celebrating the state’s vibrant cultural heritage and its champions.
An elated Bolaji shared his gratitude and enthusiasm after receiving the award. High Chief Dr. Obani Oluwabiyi Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, Founder of the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI), emphasized the organization’s pride in honoring illustrious sons of the soil who have made significant contributions to youth, education, and arts advocacy in Nigeria. “Having traveled extensively, I can affirm that our culture is breathtaking. What better way to celebrate our icons during this 25th anniversary than through Kulturefest?” he stated.
The 2024 Kulturefest marked both the grand celebration of the group’s 25th anniversary and the 19th edition of the festival. The event featured vibrant cultural displays including performance theatre, dance, drama, and music, showcasing the diverse cultures of Nigeria with guest theatre troupes delivering captivating performances.
A multitude of culture enthusiasts, traditional rulers, and community leaders attended, while traditional dance groups such as Obatala, Egungun, and Sango graced the event.
The festival emphasized cultural excellence and sustainability, featuring various performances, exhibitions, and workshops that catered to a wide array of artistic tastes. Highlights included a poetry and spoken word piece titled “Unbroken Spirit: A Call to Rise Above,” performed by Omowunmi Patience Boyede and directed by Favour Ulodike Cyracus, alongside the performance of the play “Omi Sayo,” written by Obani Oluwabiyi Boyede Greenlyte and directed by veteran movie producer Mr. Thomas Ogaga Obrutu.
Chief Dr. Amb. Obani Oluwabiyi Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, the founder and convener of the University of Kulture, expressed appreciation to all attendees and supporters of the event. “We are thrilled with the success of Lagos Kulturefest 2024,” he remarked, “and we look forward to building on this success in future editions.”
