The Tribute night for Tam Fiofori, held at Freedom Park in Lagos on August 16, 2024, began with a poignant observation by Gboyega Adelaja. He noted that many attendees hadn’t seen each other in years, underscoring the unifying power of Fiofori’s legacy. Adelaja then led the gathering in prayer, officially opening the evening’s proceedings.
A solemn one-minute silence followed, honouring the memory of the late cultural icon. The silence gave way to Frank Halim’s voice, as he recited Tam Fiofori’s most recent interview with Taiwo One’s mytori.ng. This compelling narrative traced Fiofori’s journey up to his return to Nigeria in 1975, offering attendees a glimpse into the formative years of the celebrated photographer and filmmaker.
Later in the evening, Halim returned to the podium to review Fiofori’s extensive body of work, highlighting the depth and breadth of his contributions to Nigerian art and culture.
Among the many who spoke at the event were Moses Ohiomokhare, who once managed Quintessence Gallery, shared personal anecdotes that illuminated TambFiofori’s character. “He had far-reaching vision and deep foresight,” Ohiomokhare remarked, recounting how “Uncle Tam,” as he was affectionately known, had documented the stories of orphaned children through his photography up to their university years.
Visual artist Mudi Are succinctly described Fiofori as “a visionary,” while Toyin Akinosho’s heartfelt tribute referred to him as “My favourite uncle,” emphasising the personal impact Fiofori had on those around him.
Visual artist Taiye Idahor read a tribute penned by Ugoma Ebilah, prefacing the reading with her own words of admiration for Tam Fiofori and the significant role he played in her life.
Writer and PR practitioner in his own tribute started by saying that people have been saying, “he was a nice guy. He wasn’t a nice guy, he was a stubborn man.” To which there was joyous laughter and applause from those present.
“He was a troublesome man. You know, when you are talented people forgive you so many things…he was just a troublesome old man. But my father is 82 now, so I understand where it came from…you become smarter, relevant and richer when you meet people like Tam Fiofori. I miss you Tam, bon voyage, thank you.” he added. But not before thanking all the friends that took care of Uncle Tam patiently in his final days.
The event, which took place at Freedom Park Lagos on Friday, was attended by a diverse group of cultural luminaries, including Mr. Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, visual artist and academic Dr. Kunle Adeyemi, acclaimed writer Igoni Barrett, photographer Amaize Ojeikere, and culture advocate Jahman Anikulapo, who served as the master of ceremonies.
Also present were the writer and editor, Adewale Maja-Pearce, chief warden of the former colonial prison now park, Theo Lawson, poet Sage Hassan and DJ Bola Brown, among many other established and up-and-coming artists.
As the evening progressed, it became clear that this tribute night was as much a memorial as it was a celebration of a life lived in service of art, culture, and humanity. The gathering is testament to Tam Fiofori’s enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
Tam Fiofori, who passed away on June 25, 2024, at the age of 82, was known for his photographic albums chronicling Nigeria’s history and his documentaries on notable Nigerian artists. His work spanned decades and continents, including a stint in 1960s Harlem where he managed Sun Ra and contributed to the foundations of Afrofuturism.
This Lagos tribute complements funeral arrangements scheduled in Port Harcourt.
He will be laid to rest in Okrika, his hometown on Thursday August 22, 2024.
•Except for featured image, all photos are by Monday Anthony
