With its sponsorship of Baba Kekere, a play on the late Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, popularly known as ‘LKJ’ and ‘Baba Kekere,’ Wema Bank has underlined the power of the arts. Jakande was a former Governor of Lagos State from 1979 to 1983 and an experienced journalist.
The play, produced by the Duke of Shomolu Productions, aims to highlight Jakande’s efforts as Lagos’ first civilian governor and a brilliant administrator with an unrivaled leadership style. His achievements and beliefs are honored in communities across the state and country.
Funmi Falola, Wema bank‘s Head of Brand Marketing Communications and Investor Relations, spoke about the sponsorship, stating that the bank is pleased to be connected with the ‘Baba Kekere’ project. The support, she said, shows the bank’s commitment to fostering Nigeria’s culture and creative arts.
Falola, who hailed Jakande’s merits, described him as a model administrator who should be emulated by this generation and future generations of leaders.
This is being done, according to Falola, due to the former governor of Lagos State’s legacy, visionary leadership, and “excellence.” We share the ideals he instilled in us, such as honesty and excellence.”
She added, “It is the bank’s contributions to entrench a sustainable collaboration, encourage human capacity development, create employment opportunities, strengthen the arts industry, and promote live theatre. So, I urge everyone to come out en masse on the journey to re-live the memories of our heroes’ past as their good deeds shape our future.”
In 2021, the bank supported theater productions Awo and Aremu, which were about the lives of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, redefining cross-industry relationships.
It supported the premieres of Hakkunde, Smurfs: The Lost Village, and Isale Eko in 2017 and 2018. In 2022, Baba Kekere will be the latest in a long series of African leaders.
On April 15 and 16, the drama was performed in the AGIP Recital Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan. The final concert will take place on May 2 at Glover Memorial Hall, Customs Street, Lagos Island. Time is 6:00pm.
