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Wole Soyinka, Nike Okundaye Receive US Recognition for Promoting African Heritage
- Wole Soyinka and Nike Okundaye Honoured: The US, through the Pennsylvania Senate and House, recognized the Nobel Laureate and the renowned artist for their global impact on literature, human rights, and African visual arts.
- African Cultural Festival 2025 Unveiled: Set for September 19–20 in Pennsylvania, the festival will promote African heritage, creativity, and international collaboration.
- Launch of Duduplugs Platform: A new digital tool, Duduplugs, will connect African creatives to global audiences, supporting the continent’s growth in the digital economy.
The United States government has honoured two famous Nigerians — Nobel Prize winner Professor Wole Soyinka and well-known artist Chief Nike Okundaye — for their outstanding contributions to African culture and the arts.
The awards were given on March 26, 2025, during a special event at the Pennsylvania State Capitol. This event was held to announce the African Cultural Festival 2025, which will take place from September 19 to 20 in Pennsylvania.
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Professor Soyinka, known as a leading voice in African literature and human rights, received “Distinguished Honors” from the Pennsylvania Senate. They praised him for his strong voice in support of free speech, democracy, and justice. The Speaker of the Pennsylvania House, Joanna McClinton, also praised him for inspiring people worldwide with his powerful writing.
Chief Nike Okundaye, who started the famous Nike Art Gallery in Lagos, was honoured for her efforts in keeping African art and traditional techniques alive. She is especially known for her work with Adire, a traditional Nigerian cloth-dyeing method. Her art has helped thousands of women learn skills like dyeing and weaving, helping them become financially independent.
The event also marked a big step in promoting African culture worldwide. Wole Adeniyi, head of ACI234 Entertainment LLC, said the festival will help celebrate African culture, build partnerships, and support trade and cultural exchange between Africa and the world.
One key feature of the upcoming festival will be the launch of “Duduplugs,” a new digital platform to help African artists reach global audiences and grow in the digital space.
Festival Director Foluke Michael described the event as a mix of tradition and modern creativity. She thanked the Lagos State Government and Professor Soyinka for their past efforts to grow Nigeria’s cultural identity, especially during events like the Lagos Black Heritage Festival. She also remembered the famous “Rhumble in Lagos” event, which featured President Bola Tinubu and boxing legend Evander Holyfield, as a key moment in showcasing Africa’s cultural strength.
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Michael said the countdown to the 2025 African Cultural Festival will begin in Lagos at the end of April, leading up to a major celebration of African talent, culture, and global influence.
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