NIGERIA: Former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was honored as The Pillar of Arts and Culture in Africa for social change at the 2015 All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA on Sunday night of November 15 at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, Nigeria. The 23.9karat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy was presented to Senator Tinubu by Ambassador (Dr) Wale Maiyegun, Director of Social Affairs, African Union on behalf of the African Union Commission and the International Committee of AFRIMA.
The former governor, who expressed his appreciation to the African Union Commission for the honor, said AFRIMA has shown that there are assets of cultural variables that can be harnessed and appreciated in the African diversity. And that AFRIMA has demonstrated how Africa talents can be brought together to promote peace, wealth and prosperity in the country. He then called on the audience to stand on their feet and observe a minute silence for the victims of Paris disaster.
Giving his inspiring acceptance speech, Tinubu highlighted the benefits of a united Africa through arts, culture and entertainment. “It is with very humble respect that I accept this honour on behalf of my country. It’s a gift for all the talents in Africa. Tonight is a night of culture, a night of Africa. It is a night of talent, a night that shows that we all belong to one single humanity. We had the situation some years back where artistes were not rewarded, but tonight, we are demonstrating to the rest of the world that culture, talent and artistry are unifiers. The unity of Africa is demonstrated here tonight.”
