Prof. Tunji Azeez Elected SONTA President as Theatre Scholars Chart Future at LASU
Jerry Adesewo
The Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA) has elected Professor Tunji Azeez as its new President, marking a new chapter for the body at its 38th International Conference and 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, from September 2–6, 2025.
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Prof. Azeez, a respected scholar and practitioner, succeeds Prof. Gowon Ama Doki, who was commended for his leadership and commitment to sustaining SONTA’s vision over the years. The election, which ushered in a fresh executive team, capped a week of intellectual engagement, cultural showcases, and policy advocacy under the theme “Technology, Intercultural Dialogue and the Future of the Performing Arts.”
New SONTA Leadership
Alongside Prof. Azeez, the new executive committee includes:
- VP I: Prof. Adediran K. Ademiju-Bepo
- VP II: Prof. Osakue Omoera
- Secretary: Prof. Tochukwu Okeke
- PRO: Dr. Tosin Tume
- Journals Editor: Prof. AbdulRasheed A. Adeoye
- Financial Secretary: Dr. Ruth Epochi-Olise
- Treasurer: Dr. Bunmi Adedina
- Assistant Secretary: Dr. Ola Ifatimehin
- Events Manager: Dr. Jimmy Akoh
- Ex-officio I: Prof. Gowon Ama Doki
- Ex-officio II: Dr. Chisimdi Ihentuge
Also, the trio of Professors Duro Oni, Mabel Evwierhoma, and Alex Asigbo were also appointed to SONTA’s Board of Trustees.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Azeez pledged to build on SONTA’s legacy by strengthening collaborations with government, international partners, and the private sector, while also driving innovation in Nigerian theatre scholarship and practice.
Conference Highlights
The gathering attracted over 300 scholars, practitioners, and guests, with LASU Vice Chancellor Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello serving as Chief Host. Other dignitaries included Chief Kayode Aderinokun as Conference Chairman and the Ooni of Ife, represented by Oba Adedire Adewole Solomon, whose presence emphasized the role of culture in national identity.
The intellectual sessions were headlined by Professor Ojo Bakare Rasaki, who delivered the keynote address, supported by lead paper presenters Femi Odugbemi and Professor Nancy King. More than 30 panel sessions—many featuring virtual participants—explored themes of technology, globalization, migration, and intercultural dialogue.
Participants also experienced a cultural tour of Badagry and a hands-on workshop in theatre design, “The Art of Upcycling Costumes,” facilitated by Dr. Grace Uchechukwu Adinku of Texas A&M University.
Resolutions
At the end of deliberations, as contained in a communique signed by its newly elected Secretary General, Professor Tochukwu Okeke, SONTA adopted resolutions that include:
- Expanding investment in digital infrastructure to enable inclusive access for artists.
- Promoting global collaborations and exchange programmes.
- Supporting sustainable strategies for arts and culture sector growth.
- Developing ethical guidelines for AI-assisted creativity to protect intellectual property.
- Strengthening partnerships with stakeholders across government and private sectors.
Looking Forward
SONTA praised LASU’s Local Organizing Committee for its hospitality and celebrated the outgoing executive for their contributions. The Society expressed confidence that under Prof. Azeez’s leadership, it will advance its mission of promoting theatre and film as tools of cultural transformation, education, and national development.
Prof. Tunji Azeez Elected SONTA President as Theatre Scholars Chart Future at LASU