Some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music industry took part in a twelve-hour online concert to celebrate the 60th independence anniversary of the country, Nigeria.
The concert, 60th Independence Day Celebration Virtual Party, was organised by the Lagos State’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture at the Lagos Theatre, Oregun.
Renowned names such as King Sunny Ade, Ebenezer Obey, Onyeka Onwenu, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Ali Baba, Lavolta Stars were among the several artistes who performed.
Celebrities at the event also included Toyin Abraham, Saidi Balogun and Funke Etti.
It was a marathon of continuous local sounds from all genres; hip hop, highlife, afrobeat and more as the artistes raced to thrill the limited physical audience due to adherence to safety rule of social distancing.
According to the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Pharmacist (Mrs.) Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, the event was mainly to celebrate Nigeria at 60 and everything we should be grateful for as Nigerians.
“It’s a 12hour non-stop musical concert to celebrate Nigeria at 60 and it’s the first of its kind in Nigeria. Nigeria at 60 is worth being celebrated as we are thanking God for everything,” Akinbile-Yusuf said.
While also appreciating the state governor for his support for the entertainment industry, the commissioner assured that Lagos State government is working tirelessly in ensuring that the industry lacks nothing.
“I use this opportunity to appreciate the executive governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for all the supports he has been giving to the entertainment industry. It is our belief that this is just the beginning,” she said.
The commissioner also urged viewers to follow and enjoyed the virtual concert as legends, established artistes, upcoming artistes and comedians took turn to entertain them.
“I am so happy to be here with everybody. I hope everyone is staying safe and following the safety measures as outlined,” she said.
In his words, the grandfather of the Nigerian stand-up comedy, Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, professionally known as Ali Baba, said Nigerians have cause to celebrate many things while using togetherness to drive it.
“The things we’re are celebrating today are many; we’re just using music, comedy and togetherness to drive all of them,” Ali Baba said as he welcomed on stage the legends of Nigerian music.
And like other artistes, Onyeka Onwenu gave an emotional performance of her 1984’s hit song, Iyogogo from the album Golden Songs Vol.2 among other renditions to celebrate the night.
Celebrities called on the people to stay at home, wash their hands regularly and practice social distancing in order to collectively flatten the curve of the novel virus.
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