The Lagos International Theatre Festival will tomorrow, Friday November 13th, formally honour a respected journalist and thespian, Mr. Ben Tomoloju, as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement & Legacy Award at the commencement of the 2026 edition of the Festival.
This distinguished recognition, according to Mrs Bolanle Austen-Peters, the founder and creative director of the festival, celebrates Tomoloju’s enduring contribution to Nigerian theatre and the performing arts, “acknowledging a body of work, dedication and artistic commitment that has helped shape the creative landscape and contributed to the continued development of the performing arts in Nigeria.”
Tomoloju, 72, is a former Deputy Editor of The Guardian whose exceptional contribution to arts and culture journalism helped shape the reportage if arts journalism of the last 40 years in Nigeria.
He is also a prolific playwright, artiste and theatre director whose impact is felt through university campuses and theatre establishments throughout Nigeria.
Tomoloju founded Kakaaki Theatre company and directed among others, Jankariwo, an important play that had rave reviews in the 1990s.
He was the Chairman of the ad-hoc committee that led to the formation of the National Association of Theatre Arts Practitioners of Nigeria (NANTAP) in the late 1980s in 2020, a collection of 100 of his songs was launched at the Freedom Park in Lagos.
And just penultimate Sunday, he delivered the keynote address at the 40th anniversary event of AJOfest at the national theatre in Lagos.
In honouring him with this award tomorrow, LITF says “theatre is sustained not only by the stories told on stage but also by the individuals whose vision, discipline and commitment leave a lasting imprint on the art form.
“Your journey and contribution represent an important part of this legacy. Through this award, the Festival seeks to honour the impact of your work and recognise the value of a lifetime devoted to the arts.”
The award will be formally presented at the Opening Night of the Lagos International Theatre Festival at the Shell Hall of MUSON Centre in Lagos, in the presence of distinguished members of the arts and cultural community, industry stakeholders and invited guests.
In her letter of invitation to Tomoloju, Austen-Peters says the Festival “would be deeply honored by your presence to personally receive this recognition as we celebrate your contributions and the legacy you continue to represent.”
