By Dishi Agaga-Akpati
Nigerian artiste Ajimiriokoroafor Amaosuagwuechefu, popularly known as Afrika, has unveiled three albums focused on African identity.
Speaking during a listening party at Freedom Park in Lagos on Sunday night, Amaosuagwuechefu said he uses music, storytelling and raw performance to stir conversations on global
about Africa’s identity.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the albums are Back to Reality, African Time and African Ambassador.
According to him, his music is driven by purpose and a sense of responsibility.
The artiste added that his message centres on an impending global crisis and Africa’s role in the future.
“If it is a crime to be African, I will commit that crime all over again,” he said.
He said the project aims to make people reflect on Africa and reconnect with its relevance.
The listening party featured performances of selected songs.
One of the songs, ‘Black and Dark’, which addresses racism, tells the story of a man facing execution because of his skin colour.
MrTaoreed Dosunmu, Director of Administration and Human Resources at the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, expressed satisfaction with the performances.
Dosumu pledged the ministry’s continuous support for talents promoting cultural values.
Prof. Chiedozie Okoro, former Dean at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Lagos, said the absence of dancers did not affect the performance, noting that the solo delivery made it more engaging.
A guest at the event, Yemisi Shina, called for better promotion of the artiste’s work, especially through digital platforms.
A poet, Olatunji Opemipo, told NAN that the experience was engaging and reflective, adding that the music encourages Africans to think beyond their present reality.
Opemipo said his favourite song was ‘Two People in the World’, which highlights the roles and responsibilities of individuals.
Bolarinwa Badejo, a software developer, described the event as thought-provoking and important for people interested in Africa’s future.
Badejo also identified ‘Two People in the World’ as impactful. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)