Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo Charts a New Course for Theatre in Abuja
By Mathew Eloyi
ABUJA, April 29, 2025 — The Abuja Chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) entered a new era on Tuesday as Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo, fta, a veteran theatre practitioner and arts advocate, was officially inaugurated as chairman for the 2025–2028 term. The occasion marked more than a ceremonial change in leadership—it laid out a bold agenda for transforming theatre practice in Nigeria’s capital city.
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Speaking at the formal event, attended by the Executive Director, National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shuaib Hussaini, fta, Adesewo delivered a stirring inaugural address titled “Raising the Curtain: A New Era for Theatre in Abuja,” outlining a strategic three-point vision centred on capacity building, membership expansion, and collaboration.
“Today is not just about a new chairmanship; it is about the birth of a renewed vision for theatre practice in Abuja,” Adesewo declared.
Empowering the Practitioners
A major focus of Adesewo’s plan is capacity building, through workshops, mentorships, and professional development programmes designed to empower theatre professionals beyond the stage—to the boardroom and global platforms.
Drawing on his extensive experience, including his roles as Co-Chair of the African Children and Youth Theatre Arena (ACYTA) and President of the International Inclusive Arts Network (IIAN), Adesewo said, “We must prepare our practitioners not just for the stage, but for the global arts economy.”
Growing the Guild
Adesewo also announced an aggressive membership drive to bring new and returning theatre practitioners into the fold.
“Even if you think you don’t need NANTAP, I bet you—NANTAP needs you,” he told the audience, encouraging graduating students and cross-sector artists to engage with the association. “Forms are available—pick one up and join us.”
Strengthening Global and Local Ties
Asserting Abuja’s position as Africa’s diplomatic hub, Adesewo promised to leverage cultural institutions, embassies, and international arts bodies to deepen collaboration and exposure for local theatre artists.
One of the first moves in this direction will be a Performing Arts Stakeholders’ Meeting, scheduled for June 10, 2026, in collaboration with the National Theatre. The event will provide Abuja-based stakeholders the opportunity to engage with the General Manager of the National Theatre, Mrs. Tola Akerele.
A Call to Action for Government
In a direct appeal to FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, Adesewo called for the creation of a dedicated Mandate Secretary for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, stressing that strategic leadership and infrastructural investment are vital for Abuja’s arts sector to thrive.
He also proposed the establishment of a Performing Arts Fund similar to international models like the Dutch Performing Arts Fund, and advocated for cottage theatres in all FCT area councils, replicating Lagos State’s cultural infrastructure model under former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
“The arts need a seat at the table. Theatre is a major source of job creation. Investment in the creative sector is always a wise choice,” he said.
Executive Orders and New Structures
To give structure to the vision, Adesewo announced the imminent rollout of five executive orders focusing on: Training, Welfare, Advocacy, Documentation, Membership Expansion, Funding. Other key announcements include:
- Monthly Congresses beginning May 15, to hold every third Thursday of the month.
- A quarterly roundtable to address pressing issues in the sector.
- The creation of a State Advisory Council, a FCT Chapter Elders Forum, and a Body of Patrons to support NANTAP Abuja’s goals with experience and external influence.
A Call for Commitment
“Visibility is the rule of the game, and we are going to ensure that NANTAP is seen, heard, and respected,” Adesewo affirmed.
He appealed to members to actively contribute to the association through dues, donations, and participation in planned activities, noting that it is not a numbers game but about “serious-minded members ready to invest time and resources.”
He also extended gratitude to the outgoing Executive Council led by DT Kayode Aiyegbusi, and to the Transition Committee chaired by former National Deputy President DT Esther Onwuka, for organising a “top-class” inauguration event.
The Curtain Rises
With his inaugural speech, Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo has not only taken the reins of NANTAP FCT but also issued a powerful challenge to reimagine and rebuild theatre in Abuja as a thriving, inclusive, and globally connected sector.
“Let us raise the curtain on a new era for theatre in Abuja,” he concluded.
Other members of the 5-man executive include: Thespian Osondu Ogbuaku (Vice Chairman), Thespian Jovita Chukwuemeka (Secretary), Thespian Yausayhel Suleman (Director of Finance), and Thespian Achi Ejith Kalu (Director of Media and Publicity).
Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo Charts a New Course for Theatre in Abuja
