By Frank Ulom
Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago are exploring new opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration in the creative and Carnival sectors, following a high-level meeting between the National Carnival Bands Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NCBA) and the Nigerian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago.
The meeting was facilitated by former Nigerian Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, and led by NCBA President David Lopez and members of the Association’s Executive.
The delegation met with Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, His Excellency Jerrymon Samuel Manwe, to discuss ways of strengthening the longstanding cultural relationship between both countries.
Discussions focused on Carnival, creative industries, youth development, African heritage and international cultural collaboration.
The NCBA expressed interest in establishing stronger relationships with Nigerian artists, designers, musicians, cultural practitioners and cultural delegations as part of efforts to expand international collaboration.
Areas identified for potential cooperation include mask and costume design, music and dance, cultural exhibitions, African heritage and cultural preservation, international Carnival participation, youth development, film, photography, digital media, event production and entrepreneurship.
Nigeria-Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Exchange Programme
A major proposal discussed at the meeting was the development of a formal Nigeria-Trinidad and Tobago cultural exchange programme.
The proposed programme could enable artists and cultural practitioners from both countries to exchange knowledge, skills and experiences while promoting greater understanding of their shared cultural heritage.
The NCBA also expressed interest in creating opportunities for Nigerian cultural practitioners to participate in selected NCBA and Trinidad and Tobago Carnival initiatives.
In the same vein, the Association said it would explore opportunities for cultural practitioners from Trinidad and Tobago to participate in cultural events in Nigeria.
According to the Association, stronger cultural cooperation could reinforce the historical and cultural connections between Africa and the Caribbean while creating opportunities for young people working in the creative and cultural sectors.
The proposed partnerships could also promote innovation, entrepreneurship and international exposure for emerging artists and cultural practitioners.
Lopez and the NCBA Executive expressed appreciation to Manwe and the Nigerian High Commission for the reception and willingness to explore areas of meaningful collaboration.
The Association said it looked forward to continuing discussions with the High Commissioner towards developing practical initiatives that would benefit the cultural and creative sectors of both countries.
The NCBA reiterated its commitment to taking Trinidad and Tobago Carnival further onto the international stage while welcoming cultural partners from around the world.
The proposed collaboration places Carnival and the wider creative industries at the centre of efforts to deepen cultural ties between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago, particularly through opportunities for artists and young creative professionals.
