By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
The Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, intercultural dialogue, and global relevance in the performing arts as it successfully hosted its 38th International Conference and 39th Annual General Meeting at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Lagos, from September 2 to 6, 2025.
Themed “Technology, Intercultural Dialogue and the Future of the Performing Arts,” the event attracted over 300 scholars, practitioners, and guests from within Nigeria and abroad, underscoring the Society’s influence in shaping cultural discourse and artistic development.
The opening ceremony featured the Vice Chancellor of LASU and Chief Host, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, Chairman Chief Kayode Aderinokun, and traditional rulers, including a representative of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adedire Adewole Solomon. Their presence highlighted the enduring role of theatre and culture in national development.
SONTA President, Prof. Gowon Ama Doki, applauded members for sustaining the Society’s legacy, stressing the UBUNTU spirit of unity and resilience. He praised LASU’s support and described the unprecedented turnout as a sign of SONTA’s growing relevance. The Vice Chancellor reiterated LASU’s role as a cultural hub, while Chief Aderinokun lauded the conference as a platform for dialogue and collaboration.
The keynote address delivered by Prof. Ojo Bakare Rasaki, alongside lead paper presentations from filmmaker Femi Odugbemi and U.S.-based scholar Prof. Nancy King, set the tone for engaging discussions.
Over 30 panel sessions, including virtual contributions, examined critical themes such as migration, globalization, artistic innovation, and the transformative role of theatre and film.
Participants also enjoyed a cultural tour of Badagry, immersing themselves in Nigeria’s rich heritage. Undergraduate students benefited from a hands-on workshop in Theatre Design on “The Art of Upcycling Costumes” facilitated by Dr. Grace Uchechukwu Adinku of Texas A&M University, USA.
At the close of deliberations, SONTA resolved to:
- Advocate investment in digital infrastructure and inclusive access to technology for artists.
- Promote international collaborations and cultural exchange programmes.
- Support sustainable growth strategies for the arts and culture sector.
- Champion good governance, equity, and enabling environments for artistic expression.
- Establish ethical guidelines for intellectual property in AI-assisted creations.
- Strengthen partnerships with government, private sector, and international bodies.
The conference also ushered in a new Executive Committee led by Prof. Tunji Azeez (President), with Prof. Adediran K. Ademiju-Bepo (VP I), Prof. Osakue Omoera (VP II), Prof. Tochukwu Okeke (Secretary), and Dr. Tosin Tume (PRO) among others.
Professors Duro Oni, Mabel Evwierhoma, and Alex Asigbo were also appointed to SONTA’s Board of Trustees, while outgoing leaders were commended for their service.
SONTA expressed deep appreciation to LASU’s Vice Chancellor and the Local Organizing Committee for their hospitality and organizational excellence. The Society pledged to continue advancing the transformative power of theatre, film, and performance in Nigeria and on the global stage.