The National Carnival Bands Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NCBA)has held a high-level meeting that was facilitated by the former Nigeria Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke with the Nigerian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago to explore new opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago.
The meeting, led by NCBA President David Lopez and the Association’s Executive, was held with His Excellency Jerrymon Samuel Manwe, High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Trinidad and Tobago.
Discussions centred on strengthening the longstanding cultural ties between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago, with particular focus on Carnival, creative industries, youth development, African heritage and international cultural collaboration.
NCBA Seeks Stronger Links with Nigerian Creative Sector
During the meeting, the NCBA expressed interest in establishing stronger relationships with Nigerian artists, designers, musicians, cultural practitioners and cultural delegations.
The Association identified several areas where both countries could collaborate, including:
- Mas and costume design
- Music and dance
- Cultural exhibitions
- African heritage and cultural preservation
- International Carnival participation
- Youth development and creative opportunities
- Film, photography and digital media
- Event production and entrepreneurship
Nigeria-Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Exchange Programme Proposed
A major area of discussion was the possibility of developing a formal Nigeria–Trinidad and Tobago cultural exchange programme.
The proposed initiative could provide opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners from both countries to exchange knowledge, skills and experiences, while deepening understanding of their shared cultural heritage.
The NCBA also expressed interest in creating opportunities for Nigerian cultural practitioners to participate in selected NCBA and Trinidad and Tobago Carnival initiatives.
Similarly, the Association wants to explore avenues for cultural practitioners from Trinidad and Tobago to participate in Nigerian cultural events.
Collaboration to Strengthen Africa-Caribbean Cultural Connections
The NCBA believes stronger cultural collaboration between Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago could help reinforce the historical and cultural connections between Africa and the Caribbean, while creating meaningful opportunities for young people in the creative and cultural sectors.
The Association said such partnerships could also support innovation, entrepreneurship and international exposure for the next generation of artists and cultural practitioners.
NCBA Appreciates Nigerian High Commission
NCBA President David Lopez and the Executive expressed appreciation to High Commissioner Jerrymon Samuel Manwe and the Nigerian High Commission for the warm reception and openness to exploring areas of meaningful collaboration.
The Association said it looks forward to continuing discussions with the High Commissioner as both sides work towards developing practical initiatives that will benefit the cultural and creative sectors of Nigeria and Trinidad and Tobago.
The NCBA reiterated its commitment to taking Trinidad and Tobago Carnival further onto the international stage while welcoming cultural partners from around the world into the Carnival.
National Carnival Bands Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NCBA)
David Lopez
President
On behalf of the NCBA Executive
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