The Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) has applauded Nigerian afrobeats superstar, Divine Ikubor, otherwise known as Rema for an outstanding performance during 2023 Ballon d’Or awards held in Paris.
Mrs Oluwabunmi Amao, CBAAC Director-General, who recounted how electrifying Rema’s performance was, said Africans had contributed significantly to global arts and entertainment growth over the years.
Amao, during the 2023 Black History Month celebration organized by the center with the theme “The Contributions of Africans to the Arts” noted that quite a number of blacks have continued to make notable contributions to the growth of arts.
The programme held at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife in Osun State was done virtually and physically.
She said just like in the sciences and engineering, black Africa had made giant strides in the arts and its different facets such as music, literature, fashion, filmmaking, performing arts and many others in the modern world.
“I had the opportunity of watching the performance of one of Africa’s finest pop musicians called Rema at the World largest football award ceremony, the 2023 Ballon d’Or and indeed it was a very proud moment for me as an African and a Nigerian.
“I watched with admiration how Rema held his audience spellbound at this prestigious event.
“Indeed, this was a typical example of the contributions of Africans in the area of music and it is little wonder that many believe music is Africa’s and Nigeria’s biggest export in the creative industry.
“It is only right that we continue to recognize, celebrate and honor Africans who have made significant contributions not just in the arts but the various facets of life.”
Amao noted that the black history month celebration had been deliberately organized to create a platform for advocacy to the children.
She urged students present to take pride in their Africanness and black identity.
