Renowned American R&B group, Shalamar, is set to light up Abuja with an unforgettable concert on Oct. 4, coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence celebrations.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event will take place at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Fans in the Federal Capital Territory and beyond can look forward to a nostalgic evening filled with classic hits and electrifying performances from the Grammy-winning trio.

The highly anticipated concert, promoted by iCreate Africa in collaboration with First Culture Limited, promises to be a musical journey through Shalamar’s extensive repertoire, making it a must-see for old-school music enthusiasts and new fans alike.

The group is renowned for timeless tracks such as A Night To Remember and I Can Make You Feel Good.

Highlighting the significance of the show, Bright Jaja, Chief Executive Officer of iCreate Africa, described Shalamar’s decision to extend their global tour to Nigeria as a major cultural moment.

”We’re thrilled to welcome Shalamar to Abuja this Independence Weekend. Their decision to include Nigeria on their tour is not just an honour, it’s a long-overdue gift to a vibrant community of music lovers who have carried their legacy for decades,” he said.

Jaja added that the concert would create unforgettable experiences for mature audiences who rarely get events tailored to them.

According to him, tickets are currently available at Jabi Boat Club, El-Amin International School, House 43 and Istanbul Restaurant, Jabi Mall.

Similarly, Tunde Babalola, Creative Director of First Culture, noted that the show goes beyond entertainment.

According to him, this isn’t just a concert, it’s a gift to all generations; a musical bridge between the past and present.

”Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience a breathtaking Shalamar performance curated to evoke thrills, nostalgia and goose bumps.”

In a video message, Shalamar members Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey and Jeffrey Daniel expressed excitement about returning to Nigeria.

Daniel, who pioneered the iconic dance move known as the “backslide” (later called the moonwalk), promised fans that the show would truly be “a night to remember.”

Shalamar, celebrated for their energetic performances and contributions to dance music, including popularising “body-popping” in the UK, are regarded as one of the finest funk and soul groups of their generation.

With over 25 million records sold before the classic lineup split in the mid-1980s, the group’s enduring influence remains strong.

The group’s discography includes hits such as Friends, Make That Move, Sweeter As The Days Go By, There It Is and I Owe You One.

This will not be Shalamar’s first Nigerian outing. In January 1982, the band performed at the National Arts Theatre in Lagos, before staging sold-out shows at the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan and then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, Shalamar’s return promises a night of pulsating live performances and a nostalgic experience for lovers of old-school music.

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Yusuf Adebayo Cameron Grillo (1934–2021) was one of Nigeria’s most influential modern artists, renowned for his mastery of stained glass, his innovative use of color, and his role in shaping postcolonial Nigerian art. As a painter, sculptor, muralist, and educator, Grillo stood at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, blending Yoruba cultural themes with international artistic movements.

Early Life and Education

Born in Lagos in 1934, Grillo displayed an early passion for drawing and craftsmanship. He studied at the Nigerian College of Arts, Science, and Technology, Zaria, in the 1950s, where he became a member of the “Zaria Art Society”—a group of radical young artists popularly called the Zaria Rebels. The society challenged colonial art education by advocating a “natural synthesis,” fusing Western techniques with African traditions. This philosophy became the foundation of Grillo’s lifelong practice.

Artistic Style and Innovations

Grillo developed a signature style distinguished by luminous blue hues, inspired by Adire (the Yoruba indigo-dyed textile). His compositions often featured Yoruba figures, rituals, and daily life, rendered with geometric abstraction and modernist discipline.

While celebrated as a painter, Grillo gained international distinction for his stained-glass and mosaic works. He received commissions for major Nigerian institutions, including churches, universities, and public buildings. His installations—such as those at the Chapel of the Resurrection, University of Lagos, and at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)—remain striking landmarks for their intricate design, bold symbolism, and interplay of light and color.

Through stained glass, Grillo extended Nigeria’s visual culture into sacred and civic spaces, adapting a European medium into a distinctly Nigerian form of expression.

Institutional Leadership

Beyond his artistic output, Grillo was a pioneering arts administrator and teacher. He served as the founding president of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) in 1963, helping to formalize Nigeria’s professional art community.

At Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Grillo became the Director of the School of Art, Design, and Printing, a position he held for decades. His mentorship shaped generations of Nigerian artists, many of whom went on to become leading figures in contemporary art both locally and internationally.

Recognition and Legacy

Grillo exhibited widely across Africa, Europe, and the United States, becoming one of Nigeria’s first globally recognized modern artists. His works remain in both private and institutional collections, and he is celebrated as one of the founding fathers of modern Nigerian art.

He passed away on 23 August 2021 in Lagos. Today, his contributions live on not only through his distinctive artworks—marked by radiant blues and careful geometric compositions—but also through the institutions he strengthened and the students he nurtured.

Yusuf Grillo embodied the postcolonial Nigerian search for identity through art. His ability to merge Yoruba aesthetics with modernist techniques made him a cultural bridge between Nigeria and the wider world. His stained-glass masterpieces, educational leadership, and pioneering role in professionalizing Nigerian art cement his place as a cornerstone of African modernism.

Sources
Premium Times Nigeria. “Renowned Nigerian artist, Yusuf Grillo, dies at 87.” August 2021.

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Born: 11 March 1977 (Maroko, Lagos)

Education: Chemistry, University of Lagos (UNILAG); Theatre training at Theatre 15
Koffi Idowu-Nuel—known professionally as Koffi Tha Guru—is a celebrated Nigerian comedian, actor, writer, musician, and cultural creative whose career has spanned over two decades. Known for his sharp wit, musical prowess, and insightful satire, Koffi has remained a pioneering force in Nigeria’s entertainment ecosystem.

Early Life and Path into Performance

Growing up in Maroko—an erstwhile Lagos slum—Koffi attended Molusi College, Ijebu Igbo, before earning admission to UNILAG where he studied Chemistry. His time there introduced him to Theatre 15, where he trained in acting, dance, and comedy. In 1998, he joined Theatre 15 formally, honing his multifaceted artistry.

His television breakthrough came in the sitcom Twilight Zone (nicknamed “Shake Body”), where he portrayed “Dauda.” Koffi gained further recognition after becoming one of just four finalists at the 2003 Night of a Thousand Laughs, from a field of 34 contestants.

Comedy Career and Legacy

A stalwart of stand-up, Koffi boasts a career exceeding 25 years as a comedian, earning praise for his versatility and intellect. He has produced and hosted numerous signature shows including Bursting Loose, Out of Control, Blunt Brutal Breathless, Comedy Combo, and I Stand Corrected. He also hosts Humour Hangout and Awada Express, a popular ethnic variety show.

Discography and Music

Unlike many comedians, Koffi has actively pursued music:

According to Punch (2024), he has released 32 albums and maintains the distinction of having the highest number of music videos of any Nigerian comedian.

His official discography includes albums such as:

COMfussion (2004)
ABINIBILITY (2006)
TRADofunkHIPsouL (2008)
Metamorpho (2013/14)
Root&Roll (2012)
Gospel Truth (2012)
Workerman Allstars: Famous Five (2013)
Soundtrack albums like Ayindeokin: Metamorpho and others

Acting and Film

Koffi’s acting began on stage and transitioned to TV and film. He appears in over 20 productions including 2 Blackbirds, Clown in Town, Mumble Jumble, and several others—many of which he produced and directed himself.

Industry Advocacy

In August 2018, Koffi was unanimously appointed to the Board of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), succeeding the late Ras Kimono. He remains a vocal supporter of intellectual property rights in the creative sector.

Milestones & Recognition

As of December 2023, Koffi celebrated 25 years in comedy and 20 years in music with his Muludun Night show—marking an impressive creative timeline.

He holds numerous awards, including:

Best Comedian (Music), Nigerian National Comedy Awards (2006)

Comedian of the Year, Dynamix Youth Awards (2007)

Best Comic Movie for The Nanny in the Best of Nollywood Awards (2013)

Legacy

Koffi Tha Guru’s enduring influence stems from his multi-disciplinary approach—seamlessly blending comedy, music, acting, writing, and activism. He remains a guiding light for emerging entertainers, embodying humor, intellect, and social engagement.

Sources:
Punch Newspaper coverage of his career and milestones

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