The Lagos State Government on Thursday evening joined cultural ambassadors, dignitaries, and lovers of talking drums at the Alliance Française Lagos, Ikoyi, for “Ara Live – 25 Years of Rhythm,” a landmark concert celebrating globally acclaimed talking drum virtuoso, Aralola Olamuyiwa, popularly known as Ara, the Queen of Drums.
Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, was represented at the event by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, who delivered the official welcome address on behalf of the State Government.
In his remarks, the Governor reaffirmed Lagos State’s unwavering commitment to culture and the creative economy as vital pillars of sustainable development.
He noted that the administration continues to prioritise investments that strengthen cultural heritage while expanding economic opportunities within the creative sector.
The Governor also emphasised Lagos State’s expanding investment in the creative industry, revealing that the state committed ₦8.4 billion to the sector in 2025, a significant increase from ₦3.8 billion before 2023.
The investments span concerts, capacity-building programmes, professional training, and production support across music, film, and related creative industries.
He reiterated the administration’s vision, stating that “In Lagos, music is not just entertainment, it is an economic infrastructure,” underscoring the goal of positioning Lagos as Africa’s leading hub for creative and cultural enterprise.
Paying tribute to the celebrant’s inspiring journey, the Governor highlighted that when Ara began professionally playing the talking drum – the gángan, a centuries-old symbol of Yoruba civilisation in the year 2000, she challenged long-standing cultural norms that traditionally excluded women from the instrument. Today, her groundbreaking achievement has inspired over 1000 female talking drummers across Nigeria and beyond.
Ara, a Cultural Diplomacy Ambassador recognised by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a Cultural Ambassador, appointed by the Ooni of Ife, has performed across five continents before presidents, royalty, and global audiences, sharing international stages with legendary artists including Stevie Wonder.
The milestone concert served not only as a celebration of artistic or cultural excellence but also as a powerful affirmation of Lagos State’s commitment to promoting culture, empowering creatives, and projecting Nigeria’s rich heritage to the world.
The evening was further distinguished by the presence of her Royal Majesty Abiola Dosunmu (the mother of the source) and other notable dignitaries present at the event.
