FirstBank, a leading financial institution in West Africa and a provider of financial inclusion services, has announced that it will sponsor the Lagos command performance of Eni Ogun: The Noble Warrior, a theatrical production honouring Professor Wole Soyinka.
This is part of the celebration of the 90th birthday of the internationally renowned writer and national icon. The goal of this sponsorship is to help foster the growth of the creative arts ecosystem.
On Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., The Noble Warrior – Eni Ogun, directed by Oriade Adefila and produced by Cash Onadele, will take place at the Muson Centre.
This marks yet another important milestone in the Bank’s First@art project, which was developed with the primary goal of assisting Nigeria’s arts and cultural development value chain in order to foster the expansion and advancement of the country’s creative economy. Additionally, it honours the accomplishments and efforts of Professor Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel Laureate.
The Nobel Warrior Eni Ogun will narrate the historic account of the native people’s victorious overthrow of the colonial army. The purpose of this novel is to rewrite history, highlight the effects of cultural invasions, and highlight the struggle for independence against imposing strong colonial invasions.
Comparable to Wole Soyinka, the protagonist’s brand identity, Oluwole, a royal noble warrior, emphasises similar qualities as a fighter and the humane warrior throughout his ninety-year earthly sojourn.
Toye Arulogun, Executive Producer had this to say in line with the performance: “FirstBank is supporting this special production of The Noble Warrior as tribute to a national and global literary icon in consonance with the philosophy of the First@art initiative, conceptualised for the support of the creative arts and promotion of cultural development.
“Once again, the leading financial services solutions provider is proud to demonstrate its commitment to sustaining the creative arts industry and this partnership with Adubiifa Network Co. is part of the celebration of a landmark birthday of Prof. Wole Soyinka – pride of our cultural heritage,” he added.
The Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney, celebrated the Nigerian living icon: “We are proud to be part of this special tribute to Professor Wole Soyinka, a true literary giant whose contributions to literature and humanity continue to inspire us all. FirstBank’s sponsorship of the Noble Warrior – Eni Ogun is our modest way of demonstrating our appreciation of his contributions to Nigerian literature and culture; his writings that have transcended borders and he remains a true embodiment of the power of art as a tool to uplift society. FirstBank is woven into the fabric of society, and for 130 years, we have been enabling success in the creative industry value chain through our First@arts initiative and Eni Ogun is another opportunity to reinforce this impact to support and empower small businesses.”
FirstBank’s platform for combining all of its artistic endeavours is called First@arts. It supports the creative arts along its whole value chain, offers much-needed funding, showcases and helps the industry succeeds, and lets clients take advantage of the plethora of opportunities the creative sector has to offer. FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe is one of the special projects that fall under the First@Arts banner.
FirstBank facilitates chances and venues for individuals seeking unforgettable homecoming experiences worldwide through DecemberIssaVybe as seen in the art and entertainment news. These experiences may include marriage ceremonies, friend and family reunions, festivals, funerals, I Just Got Backs (IJGBs), charitable giving, and community participation. It has always provided the Bank’s friends and families with the most thrilling, enjoyable, and unforgettable December experience.
