FirstBank sponsors ‘The Noble Warrior’ play in tribute to Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday

BY TEMITOPE ADEBAYO

FirstBank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider, has announced its sponsorship of the Lagos command performance of Eni Ogun – ‘The Noble Warrior’, a theatrical production honouring Professor Wole Soyinka as part of the 90th birthday celebrations for the global literary giant and National Icon.

The Noble Warrior – Eni Ogun, produced by Cash Onadele and directed by Oriade Adefila, will be performed at the Muson Centre on Saturday, 20th July 2024, at 6:00 PM.

This sponsorship marks a significant stride in the Bank’s First@art initiative, which aims to support the value chain of Nigerian arts and cultural development, fostering growth in the nation’s creative economy. It also acknowledges the contributions and achievements of Prof. Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel Laureate.

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Eni Ogun – The Noble Warrior narrates the historical tale of natives successfully defeating colonial forces. The story seeks to reposition historical truths and highlight the consequences of cultural invasions and the fight for freedom against colonial powers. The protagonist, Oluwole, a princely noble warrior, is likened to Wole Soyinka, showcasing similar traits as a fighter and humane warrior in his 90-year journey on earth.

According to the performance’s Executive Producer, Toye Arulogun, “FirstBank is supporting this special production of The Noble Warrior as a tribute to a national and global literary icon in consonance with the philosophy of the First@art initiative, which is conceptualized to support the creative arts and promote cultural development.”

“Once again, the leading financial services solutions provider is proud to demonstrate its commitment to sustaining the creative arts industry. This partnership with Adubiifa Network Co. celebrates the landmark birthday of Prof. Wole Soyinka, the pride of our cultural heritage.”

Celebrating the Nigerian living legend, the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Ms Folake Ani-Mumuney, said, “We are proud to be part of this special tribute to Professor Wole Soyinka, a true literary giant whose contributions to literature and humanity continue to inspire us all. FirstBank’s sponsorship of The Noble Warrior – Eni Ogun is our modest way of demonstrating our appreciation of his contributions to Nigerian literature and culture; his writings have transcended borders, and he remains a true embodiment of the power of art as a tool to uplift society.

“FirstBank is woven into the fabric of society, and for 130 years, we have been enabling success in the creative industry value chain through our First@art initiative. Eni Ogun is another opportunity to reinforce this impact to support and empower small businesses.”

First@art is FirstBank’s platform for consolidating its efforts in the arts, supporting the entire value chain of the creative arts, providing much-needed financing, showcasing, and facilitating the successes of the industry.

It also enables customers to explore the wealth of opportunities the creative industry offers. One unique initiative under the First@Arts umbrella is FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe, which provides opportunities and platforms for memorable homecoming experiences, including for those returning for marriage ceremonies, friends and family reunions, festivals, funerals, and the I Just Got Backs (IJGBs). It has always delivered the most exciting, fun-filled, and memorable experiences in December to friends and families of the Bank.