President Tinubu Emphasizes Importance Of Entertainment Industry In Preserving History

President Bola Tinubu highlighted the importance of giving more attention to the entertainment industry, noting its importance in preserving history and educating younger generations.

Speaking at a stage production, titled "Abibatu Mogaji: An Opera," which took place at the State House Conference Centre on Tuesday, the president honored his late mother and expressed the government's commitment to investing further in culture and arts, the State House website said.

He noted that this investment will connect the past with the present and make way for the future. Vice-President Senator Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Right Honourable Tajudeen Abbas and other dignitaries attended the event.

President Tinubu's mother, Mogaji, passed away on June 15, 2013, at the age of 96, leaving a lasting legacy of service to her family, community and the nation.

During the event, the president described his mother as tough and determined, adding that she was the source of his resilience, determination and discipline.

"My first restaurant was the best. My first toilet was the best. My first bedroom was her back. There is no way I could have come this far, and become this old without her care," Tinubu said, as per the State House website.

The president expressed gratitude to the Executive Producer of the play Ola Awakan and the Director Dr. Ahmed Yerima for creating a play to honor his mother's memory. He praised the play for its thorough research and portrayal of his mother's life and achievements.

"I could see that they know her very well. She was tough. She was a disciplinarian. I can thank God for the gift I got from her. It was an enduring gift of character and determination. Never to give up," Tinubu said.

The president mentioned that his son Seyi and other family members would benefit from the play, as theater helped convey historical lessons through reenactment.

Seyi, 38, who was also present at the event, expressed gratitude to the managers and crew for their excellent performance in honoring the late Iya-loja of Lagos. Awakan also thanked the president for the opportunity and support to stage the play at the Presidential Villa.

The play was held just one day after the president introduced new steps to tackle high food prices in Nigeria, noting that these measures will roll out over 180 days.