SPAN Celebrates Graduation of Performing Arts Students

On July 14, 2023, the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) held a graduation ceremony and dinner for its SPAN on the Road (SOTR) programme at SPAN Space in Ikoyi, themed “Beyond Boundaries.” This event marked the conclusion of a six-month dance training initiative organized in partnership with the Ford Foundation. SPAN has been dedicated to discovering and nurturing talent from underserved communities for over two decades.

The graduation showcased performances in various dance styles, including salsa, jazz, hip-hop, urban fusion, and Nigerian street dance, by students who had little or no prior training. The evening featured a documentary on SPAN’s outreach efforts, including in Maiduguri, and honored the Ford Foundation for its support.

Remi Jemitola, SPAN’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the program's transformative impact and its goal of democratizing performing arts education. Dr ChiChi Aniagolu, Regional Director of the Ford Foundation Office of West Africa, highlighted the partnership's commitment to expanding opportunities for young people in Nigeria's creative economy.