The life and legacy of Benson Omowafola Tomoloju, a renowned dramatist, poet, theatre director, and cultural activist, will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, as he turns 70.
The Artists Collective is organizing a day-long celebration at Freedom Park, Lagos Island, to honor Tomoloju’s immense contributions to the arts, journalism, and cultural advocacy in Nigeria. The program will feature a rich blend of activities designed to reflect his multifaceted career.
The event will include a conversation on his dramatic works and groundbreaking journalism, as well as a performed reading of his latest play, Love in a Limbo, which will debut on digital platforms the same day. The celebration also features a live presentation of his 100 Songs collection, now available as a digital pack, with performances of select songs.
Additionally, there will be a presentation of his Yoruba folklore collection, Ogorun-un Itan Lati Ile Yoruba, supported by the Nigeria Folklore Society. The revised edition of Ben Tomoloju: Essentials of a Culture Communicator, first released in 2014, will also be relaunched. The day will culminate in an art house reception with an expected audience of 250 guests.
Born on December 18, 1954, in Ilaje, Ondo State, Tomoloju is a cultural icon who founded Kakaaki Performers in 1980, nurturing young artists who have gone on to become leading figures in the creative industry. A pioneer of professional arts journalism in Nigeria, he transformed cultural reporting during his tenure as The Guardian’s first Arts Editor, inspiring the establishment of arts desks across Nigerian media.
Tomoloju’s influence extends beyond Nigeria, with his works performed in the U.S., Italy, Germany, and other countries. His published plays include Jankariwo, Askari, and Aminatu: The Legendary Queen of Zazzau. His passion for cultural preservation is evident in his folklore collection and musical contributions.
The Artists Collective, comprising representatives from the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (NANTAP), Committee for Relevant Arts (CORA), and other collaborators, is spearheading the event. For participation and support, interested individuals can contact OmoOba Jerry Adesewo at 08052771123.
Tomoloju’s 70th birthday promises to be a remarkable celebration of a life dedicated to the growth and preservation of Nigerian arts and culture.
