PoeticRendezvous: Poets, artists gather in Lagos to mark International Day of Peace

Poets, musicians, visual artists and cultural enthusiasts gathered in Lagos on September 19 for the September edition of the Monthly Poetic Rendezvous, which marked the International Day of Peace with performances and conversations on peaceful coexistence.

The gathering, tagged “International Peace Day”, was held under the theme, “Invest in Peace for Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”, bringing together members of the creative community and the wider public to examine the place of peace in contemporary society.

A central question at the event was, “What can we do without peace?” Participants returned to the question during discussions on peaceful coexistence, personal responsibility, understanding and the need to strengthen relationships across generations and communities.

Members of the Alliance Française de Lagos family, alongside Odufa and Precious, took part in the discussions, offering perspectives on peace, coexistence and the responsibilities of individuals and communities in sustaining peaceful relationships.

Mrs Ibiba Odili, a retired NDLEA boss, also spoke at the gathering, drawing on her years in public service to discuss peaceful coexistence, with particular attention to relationships among different generations.

The programme also featured music, poetry and dance. Ruth Mahogany performed her soon-to-be-released song, “Dun Dun Deri”, while Holyspice and Debbie Usak presented poems inspired by the theme of the gathering.

Joan x Ade added a dance performance to the programme, bringing movement into an evening that combined spoken word, music and other forms of creative expression.
Participants also took part in an interactive visual art session led by Mr Adeniran, using colour, imagery and personal creativity to explore ideas around peace.

Gina Obi, popularly known as Reigning Queen, anchored the programme and guided proceedings through the various sessions and performances.

The organisers also recognised individuals and organisations whose support has contributed to the development of the Monthly Poetic Rendezvous. Those acknowledged included Mr Chima, Shigo Art and Kachi, while Nigerian international poet and cultural curator Lanre Sonde was recognised remotely for his support and contribution to the initiative.

Speaking on the significance of the gathering, the convener, Godson Osarenren, encouraged participants to regard peace as a continuing responsibility that requires dialogue, understanding, empathy and responsible relationships.
He said cultural gatherings such as the Monthly Poetic Rendezvous could provide useful spaces for people to engage social questions through literature and artistic expression.

The Monthly Poetic Rendezvous brings together poets, artists, creatives and culture enthusiasts, providing a platform for literary performances, artistic presentations and conversations around issues affecting society.

The September edition ended with further performances and informal interactions among participants, with the organisers expressing their intention to continue creating opportunities for poetry, art and conversations that encourage social connection.