Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has positioned the newly established Institute of Contemporary African Arts and Films (ICAAF) as a platform for developing creative talent, promoting cultural education and expanding opportunities in the creative industry.

AbdulRazaq stated this in Ilorin on Monday while declaring open an exhibition celebrating the life and works of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti at the institute, also known as the Visual Arts Centre.

The exhibition, titled Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: A Retrospective, was organised by June Creative Art Advisory (JCAA) in partnership with the Kwara State Government. It will run until 31 December.

The governor said the institute was conceived to preserve African cultural heritage, nurture talent, stimulate creative enterprise and attract visitors, while strengthening Kwara's position in Nigeria's cultural and creative landscape.

"Our ambition is for ICAAF to advance cultural education, encourage creative enterprise, attract visitors and strengthen Kwara's place in Nigeria's cultural and creative landscape," he said.

AbdulRazaq described cultural infrastructure as a means of connecting people to their history, expanding their imagination and challenging established ideas, adding that the institute would provide opportunities for artists, students, researchers and young people.

He said opening the institution with an exhibition on Fela was particularly significant because the late musician used his art to challenge conventions and raise questions about power, freedom, identity and justice.

The governor commended JCAA and Fela's family for bringing the exhibition to Kwara, urging young people to explore creative pursuits as avenues for both self-expression and economic opportunity.

Fela's daughter, Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti, commended the state government for recognising her father despite his not being from Kwara.

"Fela was not from Kwara State, but you have recognised him in a way that I think is commendable," she said.

The founder of JCAA, Seun Alli, said the exhibition traces Fela's family background, early life, musical evolution and political activism, offering visitors an opportunity to understand the experiences and ideas that shaped his legacy.

Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Bola Olukoju, urged young people interested in printing, photography, filmmaking, fashion and design to use the institute to develop their skills, exchange ideas and showcase their work.

Speaking on behalf of the entertainment industry, actor Yinka Qodir praised the government for recognising established performers and supporting emerging talents in the state.

The event was attended by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly and APC governorship candidate, Salihu Yakubu Danladi; members of the state executive council; and actors Ibrahim Chatta and Yahaya Habeeb Olatunji, popularly known as Baba Kamo.