EDITOR'S FOREWORD
Reimagining Nigerian Heritage
Our latest issue, Reimagining Nigerian Heritage, celebrates and ruminates on the unknown and underdiscussed aspects of what it means to be Nigerian today.
COVER INTERVIEW
Making the Museum of West African Art
Ahead of the official, public launch of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Benin City, Edo state, set for 2025, MOWAA director Ore Disu discusses her vision for Africa’s most ambitious cultural institution yet.
COVER ESSAY
The Strange Genius of William Onyeabor
The Nigerian musician William Onyeabor lived an enigmatic life, and his mysteriousness continues to foreground the light his music represents.
COVER ESSAY
The Endless Life of Onyeka Onwenu
Nigerian pop icon Onyeka Onwenu died earlier this year. With an iridescent career spanning decades, Onwenu’s knowledge of Nigeria’s failings ran as deep as her capacity to imagine and believe in a better Nigeria.
COVER ESSAY
The Timelessness of Tunde Kelani’s Ṣaworoìdẹ
Tunde Kelani released Ṣaworoìdẹ, the film many consider his best, 25 years ago in 1999 when Nigeria returned to democratic governance. The film continues to address important issues happening in Nigeria today.
COVER ESSAY
THE MINISTRY OF ARTS / ARCHITECTURE DEPT.
The Fragile Beauty of Northern Architecture
An exploration of traditional northern Nigerian architecture takes you into Zaria City, where you experience centuries-old tradition and the march of modernity. Through the eyes of a traditional builder, a modern-day architect, and everyday residents, you learn about the meaning of these historic buildings and the issues threatening this rich heritage.
THE MINISTRY OF ARTS / FASHION DEPT.
Our Personal Relationships with Aṣọ Òkè
More than just fabric, aṣọ òkè is a piece of family history tied to celebrations and important events. aṣọ òkè often symbolizes the connections, legacies and pride handed down from one generation to the next.
THE MINISTRY OF BUSINESS x THE ECONOMY
The Misunderstood Economics of Igba Ọsọ Ahịa
Igba Ọsọ Ahịa is not just another middleman scheme, but a social business practice deeply rooted in Igbo society that integrates regional traders for the purpose of facilitating entrepreneurialism and financial independence.
THE MINISTRY OF BUSINESS X THE ECONOMY
The Weavers of Iseyin
Aṣọ-òfì does more than exist as a treasured Yoruba fabric and a commodity in Iseyin, its original home. It reflects a societal fabric interwoven with the changing cultural values, social norms, religious beliefs, education and economic systems of the Iseyin community.
THE MINISTRY OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS
Tsibbu, Magic and Hausa Medicine
How Hausa magic-medicine systems continue to exist between religion and culture.
THE MINISTRY OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS / FIRST DRAFT INTERVIEWS
The Books Writers Think Make the Perfect Holiday Gifts
As the holiday season approaches, we asked writers and booksellers—including Theresa Lola, Noo Saro-Wiwa, and Adedayo Agarau—for their top book recommendations to gift a loved one. Here’s what they told us.
THE MINISTRY OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS
The Reinvention of Nsibidi
Nsibidi, Nigeria’s historical writing script, offers a glimpse into the complexities and intricacies of African cultures. Today, a universe of creators, researchers and enthusiasts is on a quest to promote its resurgence in our contemporary world.
THE MINISTRY OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS
Portraits of Nigerian Hair
Obidike Arinze Nnanyelu, who created the Visual History of Nigerian Hair illustration series, discusses what it means as an artist to document hair-making in Nigeria and unpack its cultural significance.
THE MINISTRY OF MEMORIES
The Last Guardians of Yoruba Door Carving
Yoruba carvers were once revered for their intricate spiritual and cultural door designs. The few carvers remaining today persevere against a world that increasingly overlooks the value of their art.
the cover
‘Homecoming,’ by Shalom Ojo
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SPECIAL THANKS
Illustrators: Ekundayo R. Baiyegunhi, Sheed Sorple Cecil, Kingsley Chibueze, Kevwe Ogini, Shalom Ojo, Charles Owen, Oluwaseye Sanyaolu and Dami Mojid.
Issue Design: Wale Lawal and Dami Mojid
Editors: Wale Lawal, Yusuf Omotayo, Peace Onafuye and Ada Nnadi
Partners: The French Embassy in Nigeria and StoryMi Academy.
