Abuja – Durbar

The theme for Expressions in Abuja was the Durbar Festival. Durbar has an interesting history, linking pre-colonial forms of martial display, the colonialist era and post colonial celebrations of events in the emirates of Northern Nigeria. Durbar originated in India and was used in formal assemblies to mark occasions like the proclamation of Queen Victoria as empress of India in 1896. The British held several Durbars in Northern Nigeria during the early 1900’s. These served to remind local rulers and citizens of their subordination to British colonial authority.
Children from 14 public schools in Abuja took part in Expressions, thanks to a facilitator from the British Council. Children took part in creative writing workshops themed on Durbar, linking their creative writing to their choice piece of art.
Schools had an exciting trip to Nike Okundaye’s Abuja mud gallery and art centre where they tool part in workshops on Indigo fabric and tie & dye. There were also pulsating drum and dance classes where everyone joined in – children, teachers, artists, facilitators with the formidable aunty Nike leading the way. Children had a grand time at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre participating in creative writing workshops, interacting with artists and bringing their words to life in dance and drama.