By Anthony Ochela, Abuja
Africa Centre is forging a strategic partnership with the National Council for Arts and Culture, NCAC, in a landmark collaboration to co-create meaningful cultural programmes, exhibitions and artistic exchanges that honour Africa’s rich heritage and strengthen its global cultural influence.
At the heart of this partnership is the development of Origins, NCAC’s visionary digital storytelling and heritage platform.
While Origins is designed to connect Africa with its global descendants through history, memory and creativity — creating a living archive of African identity and imagination, the Africa Centre will be a foundation partner for the initiative.
A statement by the Head of Media, NCAC, Dr Dennis Olofu, said this collaboration reflects The Africa Centre’s strategic theme of The Global African, which amplifies the voices, contributions and lived experiences of people of African descent around the world.
It said through Origins and other joint initiatives, both organisations will build platforms and experiences that celebrate Africa’s past, present and future — rooted in pride, powered by community and inspired by possibility.
The statement quoted the CEO of The Africa Centre, Olu Alake, as saying “This partnership represents a powerful manifestation of how arts and culture bring people and institutions together to take huge steps forward in connecting Africa with its diaspora through shared stories and cultural expression.
“We are thrilled to work with NCAC on Origins and other projects that honour our collective past, while inspiring new generations to shape Africa’s global future.”
On his part, the Director-General of NCAC, Obi Asika, added: “Our collaboration with The Africa Centre reflects NCAC’s ongoing commitment to use culture as a bridge — not only between African nations, but between the continent and its descendants around the world.
“Origins will serve as a digital gateway to our heritage and we are excited to build this with a partner that shares our vision and values.”
Chair of The Africa Centre, Professor Oba Nsugbe SAN, said “The Africa Centre has always been at the heart of innovative ways of connecting the Global African Diaspora.
“This exciting partnership with Africa’s largest arts and culture agency under Asika’s leadership provides our organisations with a unique opportunity to elevate our shared heritage and foster closer ties amongst people of African descent.”
In the coming months, The Africa Centre and NCAC will unveil a series of joint initiatives focused on the elevation of African creativity through intellectual development, digital innovation and facilitating global connections, especially for youth engagement.
Located in London, The Africa Centre is a pioneering cultural institution committed to promoting African and diaspora narratives through the arts, education and innovation.
Established in 1964, The Africa Centre celebrates African excellence in arts and culture, thought leadership, innovation and community development.
The National Council for Arts and Culture is Nigeria’s leading cultural agency, dedicated to preserving and promoting the nation’s rich and diverse cultural heritage at home and abroad.
