'Fela Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion' Makes African Debut in Lagos
Lagos, Nigeria is currently hosting the highly anticipated 'Fela Kuti: Afrobeat Rebellion' exhibition, an immersive experience dedicated to the life and enduring legacy of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. The three-month showcase, which opened on October 12, 2025, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, is scheduled to run until December 28, 2025. This marks the exhibition's first presentation in Africa, following its acclaimed debut in Paris.
An Immersive Journey Through Fela's World
The exhibition offers a rich, multi-sensory journey through Fela Kuti's impactful career and personal life. Visitors can explore a collection of rare archival items, never-before-seen photographs, and Fela's actual stage clothes. Vibrant installations meticulously recreate iconic spaces central to his story, such as the Kalakuta Republic and the Afrika Shrine. Papa Omotayo, founder of Whitespace Creative Agency and a key member of the exhibition team, highlighted its scope, stating, 'For us this is more than an art show. It's a three-month programme featuring concerts, talks, children's workshops, and spoken word competitions, all aimed at engaging the next generation in the legacy of what it means to be Nigerian and creative.'
Collaborative Effort and Expanded Programming
The Lagos edition of 'Afrobeat Rebellion' is a collaborative effort, brought to fruition by the A Whitespace Creative Arts (AWCA) Foundation, with significant support from the French Embassy in Nigeria and the Kuti family. Originally curated by the Philharmonie de Paris, the Lagos version has been expanded to include a comprehensive 12-week cultural program. This extensive schedule features:
- Live Music Experiences: Curated by Lanre Masha, with performances by artists including Seun Kuti, Femi Kuti, Made Kuti, and Ezra Collective.
- 'The Talks' Series: Panel discussions exploring Fela's ideas and impact, featuring thought leaders like Yeni Kuti.
- 'Kalakuta Cinema': Film screenings curated by the S16 Collective.
- 'Young Rebels' Corner': An interactive creative space designed for children aged 6-15, fostering engagement with Fela's legacy through music, art, and storytelling.
A Homecoming and Cultural Bridge
The exhibition's return to Lagos is seen as a significant homecoming, bringing Fela's narrative back to the city that profoundly shaped his music and activism. Laurent Favier, the Consul General of France in Nigeria, described the exhibition as 'an act of both cultural diplomacy and reclaiming Fela's narrative,' emphasizing that 'culture is a bridge.' General admission to the exhibition is free from Fridays to Sundays, with RSVP required for certain limited-capacity programs, ensuring broad accessibility for both local and international visitors. The event coincides with the annual 'Felabration' festival, further cementing Fela Kuti's enduring influence on Nigerian and global culture.
6 Comments
Matzomaster
Bringing the exhibition to Africa is a great move for cultural pride, yet the involvement of foreign entities like the French Embassy raises questions about who truly controls the narrative.
Raphael
The free admission on weekends is a welcome step for accessibility, but requiring RSVPs for key programs could still limit participation for those without easy online access or awareness.
Michelangelo
While the immersive experience and interactive elements for children are commendable, we must ensure the exhibition doesn't sanitize Fela's more controversial aspects, which were integral to his rebellion.
Coccinella
So glad they made it free on weekends. Everyone should experience Fela's powerful story.
Muchacha
Is the French Embassy really the best partner for 'reclaiming' Fela's narrative?
Katchuka
Absolutely brilliant! Fela's legacy finally gets the homecoming it deserves in Lagos.