African Culture Takes Center Stage at Lagos Forum on Diplomacy and Economic Growth
Event Information
- Event: Cultural Dialogue Series
- Location: Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, Lagos
- Organizers: Goge Africa, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC)
- Theme: Eyo, Culture & Soft Power: Driving Diplomacy, Integration and Economic Growth
- Focus: Culture, diplomacy, tourism, creative industries, and sustainable economic development
Across Africa, culture is increasingly being recognized as more than a source of identity and tradition. Governments, cultural organizations, and development institutions are exploring how heritage, creative industries, and cultural diplomacy can contribute to economic growth, tourism, international partnerships, and national development.
This growing conversation was highlighted during a cultural dialogue held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos, where policymakers, academics, business leaders, diplomats, and cultural practitioners gathered to discuss the role of African culture in shaping the continent's future.
A Forum Focused on Culture and Development
The dialogue, organized by Goge Africa in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), was held under the theme:
"Eyo, Culture & Soft Power: Driving Diplomacy, Integration and Economic Growth."
Participants explored how cultural heritage can support diplomacy, strengthen regional cooperation, expand tourism, and create new economic opportunities across Africa.
The event reflected a growing recognition that culture can contribute to national development alongside sectors such as technology, education, infrastructure, and trade.
Understanding Soft Power
One of the key topics discussed during the forum was soft power.
Soft power refers to a country's ability to build international influence through culture, education, creativity, values, and diplomacy rather than through economic or military strength alone.
Many countries have strengthened their international image by promoting:
- Film industries.
- Music.
- Fashion.
- Literature.
- Cultural festivals.
- Cuisine.
- Tourism.
- Educational exchanges.
Africa's growing influence through Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion, literature, visual arts, and cultural festivals demonstrates the continent's expanding cultural presence on the global stage.
The Economic Value of Culture
Culture is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to economic development.
Investment in cultural industries can support:
- Tourism.
- Creative entrepreneurship.
- Employment opportunities.
- Cultural exports.
- International partnerships.
- Small businesses.
- Community development.
Historic festivals, museums, heritage sites, traditional crafts, and performing arts all have the potential to contribute to local economies while preserving cultural identity.
Why the Eyo Festival Matters
The forum's theme highlighted the Eyo Festival, one of Lagos State's most well-known cultural traditions.
The festival is celebrated for its distinctive white-robed masquerades, traditional processions, and historical significance within Yoruba culture.
Beyond its cultural importance, events such as the Eyo Festival also demonstrate how heritage tourism can attract visitors while promoting local history and traditions.
The Role of Institutions
The participation of organizations such as the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation reflects growing institutional interest in integrating culture into broader national development strategies.
Through research, education, policy discussions, and international collaboration, these institutions help promote the preservation and sustainable use of Africa's cultural heritage.
Looking Ahead
Discussions such as those held in Lagos highlight the increasing role of culture in conversations about Africa's future.
Continued investment in:
- Cultural preservation.
- Creative industries.
- Heritage tourism.
- Education.
- Intellectual property protection.
- International cultural exchange.
may help strengthen Africa's position in the global creative economy while preserving its diverse cultural traditions.
Final Thoughts
Africa's cultural heritage represents one of the continent's greatest strengths.
From traditional festivals and historic kingdoms to music, film, literature, fashion, and visual arts, African culture continues to inspire people around the world.
Events such as the Lagos cultural dialogue demonstrate growing recognition that preserving and promoting this heritage can contribute not only to cultural identity but also to tourism, diplomacy, education, and sustainable economic development.
As governments, cultural institutions, and creative industries continue to work together, culture is likely to play an increasingly important role in Africa's future growth and global engagement.
Sources
-
Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA)
https://niianet.org/ -
UNESCO – Culture and Sustainable Development
https://www.unesco.org/en/culture
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