Providus Bank, in collaboration with the Culture Advocates Caucus (CAC) and under the guidance of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, is set to host the 6th annual Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café on March 21st, 2025, at the Terra Kulture Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos. This year’s celebration promises a vibrant showcase of poetic talent and cultural exchange, with a special focus on the African Diaspora and the rich artistic traditions of Cuba.
The event, an annual celebration of World Poetry Day (WPD), established by UNESCO in 1999 to recognise and promote poetry movements worldwide, has become a significant cultural event in Nigeria. Providus Bank, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, has been at the forefront of this celebration since 2020. Curated by Jahman Anikulapo, previous editions have explored diverse themes related to humanity’s existential concerns, including environmental preservation, education, youth and female empowerment, migration and socio-cultural pluralism.
The 2025 edition holds particular significance as it commemorates the beginning of the United Nations Second Decade of African Descendants (2025 – 2034) and aligns with the ongoing UN Anniversary for Enslaved Peoples and Reparatory Justice. The theme, “Sand Dune and Ocean Bed: The Template of Dispersal,” reflects this focus on the historical and ongoing experiences of the African Diaspora.
“This year’s theme delves deep into the narratives of dispersal, resilience, and the enduring spirit of African descendants across the globe,” stated Anikulapo. “Through poetry, we aim to explore these complex histories and celebrate the cultural richness that has emerged from these experiences.”
A major highlight of the 2025 celebration is the invitation of the Republic of Cuba as the “Special Guest-Nation.” This invitation, advised by Professor Soyinka, is especially timely given the 30th Anniversary of UNESCO’s Programme, “The Routes of Enslaved Peoples: Resistance, Liberty and Heritage,” with its conference scheduled for March 25th, 2025, in the USA.
A 15-piece musical orchestra and a delegation of poets from Cuba, led by the Republic’s Minister of Culture, Hon. Alpidio Alonso Grau, will grace the event. Their presence underscores the deep historical and cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean, forged through the transatlantic slave trade and the subsequent struggles for liberation and self-determination.
The Cuban delegation’s visit extends beyond the World Poetry Day celebration in Lagos. At the suggestion of Professor Soyinka, the delegation will embark on a cultural tour of Abeokuta, Ogun State, on March 23rd, to experience the rich heritage of the Yoruba people. The itinerary includes visits to cultural and heritage sites such as the Olumo Rock tourist complex and the Adire market in Itoku.
The 2025 Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café will also feature a stellar lineup of Nigerian poets, carefully selected to complement the Cuban guests and provide a diverse showcase of Nigerian poetic expression.
“Given the performance-based nature of the Cuban guests’ presentation, we have chosen Nigerian poets with varied styles to offer a rich tapestry of Nigerian cultural content and performance techniques,” explained Anikulapo.
The five featured Nigerian poets are:
Yusuf Àlàbí Balógun (Àrẹ̀mọ Gemini): A multifaceted artist whose poetry is rooted in Yoruba arts and culture, addressing themes of cultural preservation, female empowerment, and the marginalized. His performances often incorporate percussive instruments.
Evelyn Osagie: A creative writer with a focus on poetry, performance, and photography. Osagie blends performance with elements of folklore, myths, songs, and sometimes employs masks, drum rhythms, music, and dance.
Kafayat Quadri (Kaffe of Life): A multidisciplinary artist, singer-songwriter, guitarist, and poet whose work seamlessly integrates music and poetry. Her artistry explores themes of humanity, self-care, and emotional wellness.
Tijani Usman (Tijaywebster): A spoken word poet and multidisciplinary artist known for his lyrical performance style, infused with rap and dancehall elements. He also incorporates visual elements like animation into his content.
Chinelo Nwora: A passionate writer, poet, and content creator whose work reflects a deep understanding of language and the ability to convey emotions and experiences. She is also a dynamic performance poet.
Adding to the event’s artistic richness, Wole Alade, a world-acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, composer, and jazz musician, will be featured as a special guest artiste. His performance will provide a musical interlude, showcasing his unique blend of African, African American, and contemporary music.
The Cuban delegation will also feature prominent poets and the renowned musical project, Camerata Cortés.
Camerata Cortés: Founded by the legendary Cuban flautist José Luis Cortés “El Tosco,” Camerata Cortés is known for its high level of professionalism and its innovative approach to Cuban, Latin American, and international music.
Sinecio Verdecia Díaz: A performing poet, singer-songwriter, oral narrator, and cultural promoter, Sinecio has been active in promoting poetry and culture.
Alex Pausides: A poet and editor who has played a significant role in Cuban literary circles and the World Poetry Movement.
Edelmis Anoceto Vega: A poet, essayist, narrator, literary translator, and editor, Edelmis has been recognized for his contributions to literature and cultural promotion.
Israel Domínguez: A poet and translator whose works have been widely published and recognized.
Emiliano Sardiñas: A renowned improvisational poet, known as a “Repentista,” who has achieved national and international acclaim.
The event will commence at 4pm and is expected to attract a diverse audience, including members of the literary community, patrons of the arts, captains of industry, and the general public.
The event will feature poetry readings, performances, workshops, and a reception for guests, promising an evening of cultural immersion and artistic celebration.
This year’s Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café promises to be a memorable celebration of poetry, culture and the enduring connections between Africa and its Diaspora. It will be an opportunity to reflect on shared histories, celebrate artistic expression and foster greater understanding and appreciation for the power of poetry.
