The organizers of Felabration have officially announced that the annual music festival, dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, will take place from Monday, October 9th to Sunday, October 15th, 2023.
The announcement was made through a press release distributed to journalists in Lagos on Friday.
The theme chosen for this year’s edition is ‘Question Jam Answer,’ a timeless composition by Fela released in 1972. The song perfectly aligns with the prevailing socio-political atmosphere of the country, wherein people are seeking answers to pressing questions following the intriguing general election.
Felabration 2023 aims to deliver an authentic and vibrant showcase of African music, creativity, and resilience, encompassing various art forms such as dance, fashion, and music.
The festival traditionally features notable events like The Senior Secondary Schools Debate, The Fela Debates (Symposium), The Afrobics Dance Competition, The Artwork Competition, The Dress Fela Fashion Competition, The Musical Concert, and other engaging activities.
The organizers have revealed that the musical concert, which will take place at the renowned New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos, will feature some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, as well as international artists who have expressed their desire to participate.
Felabration serves as a week-long tribute to Fela’s legacy as the pioneer of the Afrobeat genre and his prominent role as a human rights activist.
The concept of Felabration was conceived in 1998 by Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti, with the intention of honoring her father’s legacy. Today, it has grown to become Nigeria’s largest music festival, attracting tens of thousands of attendees each year.
The Felabration Event is currently organized by the Felabration Organising Committee, and it has been officially recognized as a tourist destination by the Lagos State Government, who also serve as one of the main sponsors of the event.