FirstBank Sponsors Musical Theatre to Promote African Arts and Creativity
FirstBank has reaffirmed its commitment to the Nigerian creative industry by sponsoring a musical theatre performance titled The Jewel, organised by Eko Hotels and Suites. The Broadway-style show, inspired by iconic Nigerian playwrights Wole Soyinka and Ola Rotimi, was performed at the Eko Convention Centre on April 18 and 19.
At a press conference held at Eko Hotels, FirstBank’s Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the sponsorship reflects the bank’s dedication to nurturing creativity across all facets of the arts—music, drama, poetry, and more.
According to Ijabiyi, FirstBank’s support extends beyond just the performers on stage. “We take a long-term view. Our involvement covers the entire creative value chain—from front-end artists to back-end production teams,” he said.
Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, Head of Sponsorships, Partnerships, Events & Collaborations at FirstBank, explained how the bank’s involvement helps empower individuals both creatively and financially. “We are bringing banking into the art space. It’s not just about funding performances. It’s about enabling actors, technicians, and others in the space to access financial solutions, training, and opportunities that help them grow,” she said.
General Manager of Eko Hotels, Danny Kioupouroglou, noted that the partnership goes beyond corporate branding. “FirstBank is not here to support the hotel; they are here to support the arts. This kind of investment fosters a growing ecosystem that supports technicians, musicians, performers, and more,” he stated.
Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo, Director of Sales and Marketing at Eko Hotels, gave insight into The Jewel. “This production is a musical interpretation of two powerful works: The Lion and the Jewel and Our Husbands Have Gone Mad Again. Our goal is to reintroduce African stories and moral themes in ways that resonate globally. It’s our way of reviving and preserving the richness of African literature and theatre,” she explained.
Gbadebo stressed that with declining attention given to African culture in schools, productions like The Jewel are vital. “Children today are more familiar with other cultures than their own. Through theatre, we aim to tell our stories, honour our heritage, and share our values with the world.”
The show was not only an artistic success but also a bold step toward the revival of African theatre in a modern, relatable format. FirstBank’s involvement ensures that more creatives—on and off the stage—are empowered to continue telling African stories through drama and music.
