NCAC DG, Obi Asika Reconnects With Frank Meke in Lagos

Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Obi Asika graced the National Theatre stage as a keynote speaker. He spoke on the topic: “From Play to Pay: Reimagining African Youth Employment through Gaming”.

He flew into Lagos and requested a reconnect. I obliged, and we met at the National Theatre (Prof. Soyinka Centre for Creative Arts), a venue that still resonates with me as the old theatre.

Obi’s initiative, a groundbreaking concept, aims to inspire young individuals to take charge of their future through technology, music, games, beauty entrepreneurship, and creative arts.

The hall was packed, and I took a moment to interpret the environment.

Upon arrival, Obi greeted me warmly, and we embarked on a tour, starting with his wife, a stunning ebony beauty. We interacted with numerous enterprising Nigerians, whose names I unfortunately cannot recall, and the attention I received got me stunned.

We proceeded to another group, comprising over three hundred Youth Corpers, engaged in a Career hub, eagerly awaiting inspiration from trailblazers who have overcome uncertainties to leave a lasting legacy.

Obi introduced me to Tara Fela Durotoye, the legendary beauty entrepreneur and founder of House of Tara. I sat quietly and listened to this mother of three, who shared her journey of perseverance despite societal obstacles, to become a highly sought-after speaker at Ivy League universities.

As Obi continued to share another enterprise, “Play to Pay,” a game sport poised to unveil new cash-out millionaires, I excused myself without informing him.

Obi Asika’s dedication to empowering Nigerian youths is truly commendable. Although he owes me a favor, I am willing to negotiate for the benefit of Nigeria’s talented young creatives.