This high-profile event, organised by Eryca Freemantle and Associates in collaboration with Bolaji
Olatoye and Yemisi Mokuolu, is set to attract UK and Nigerian business leaders, policymakers and
cultural innovators.
It aims to foster cross-border collaboration, highlight the economic potential
of creativity and promote shared cultural partnerships between the UK and Nigeria. The session at
the House of Lords will be followed by a private evening reception for dignitaries and invited
guests to participate in further networking and partnership development.
London, UK – The House of Lords will play host to a groundbreaking event on Thursday, 27 March
2025, as E.A.T.O.W. (Embracing All Tones of Woman Ltd) presents “The Global Rise of Nigerian Soft
Power: Building Bridges Across Borders.” This exclusive gathering will feature Honourable Obi
Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Nigeria, in an intimate
conversation about the transformative impact of Nigeria’s creative industries on the global stage.
I am honoured to join this prestigious event to discuss
the global rise of Nigerian soft power through our rich
culture and creativity, from music and Nollywood to
fashion and cuisine. With over 500 languages and
cultures, Nigeria’s talent at home and in the diaspora is
world-class. By collaborating with UK industry leaders,
we can expand our creative ecosystem and global
opportunities. I am grateful to Eryca Freemantle for
hosting and look forward to the start of this impactful
series.
– Honourable Obi Asika
This high-profile event, organised by Eryca Freemantle and Associates in collaboration with Bolaji
Olatoye and Yemisi Mokuolu, is set to attract UK and Nigerian business leaders, policymakers and
cultural innovators. It aims to foster cross-border collaboration, highlight the economic potential
of creativity and promote shared cultural partnerships between the UK and Nigeria. The session at
the House of Lords will be followed by a private evening reception for dignitaries and invited
guests to participate in further networking and partnership development.
Key Highlights of the Event:
Keynote Address by Honourable Obi Asika: A pioneer of Africa’s creative industries,
Honourable Asika will delve into topics such as cultural relations, economic growth through
creativity and unlocking global opportunities for Nigerian talent and its Creative and Cultural
Industries.
Networking Opportunities: A unique platform for influential stakeholders, including UK
politicians, C-suite executives and cultural and creatives entrepreneurs to forge meaningful
connections.
Celebration of Nigerian Innovation: A showcase of how Nigeria’s creative industries are
driving economic transformation and global recognition.
Eryca Freemantle, CEO of E.A.T.O.W., emphasised the importance of this event in strengthening
UK-Nigeria relations, stating:
It is an honour to be part of this programme and to continue
building meaningful connections between the UK and Nigeria.
By fostering collaboration, education and innovation, we are
creating opportunities that empower creatives on both sides,
strengthening the bridge between these two dynamic countries.
-Eryca Freemantle
About Honourable Obi Asika
Honourable Obi Asika is a visionary leader, ecosystem builder and one of the most influential
architects of Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries. For over thirty years, he has championed
the expansion of Nigeria’s soft power, driving innovation, investment and strategic collaborations
across music, film, television, sports, technology and culture.
As the founder of Storm 360/Storm Records, Obi Asika played a pivotal role in the global explosion
of Afrobeats by launching Nigeria’s first wave of globally successful artists while pioneering major
television productions such as Big Brother Nigeria, The Apprentice Africa, Dragons’ Den Nigeria,
and Naija Sings. Through his platform, The Omniverse, he has integrated storytelling, technology
and creative industries to unlock economic opportunities for Nigerian talent.
In government, Obi Asika has served on over 15 national committees, shaping policies in culture,
media and sports. Notably, he was the first-ever Presidential Senior Special Assistant on Digital
Policy & Social Media and is the co-chair of the recently formed UK-Nigeria technical working
group driving collaborative opportunities between both nations in the cultural and creative
industries.
Globally, Obi Asika is recognised as a thought leader on African creative economies. He has served
on the Advisory Board of Africa No Filter, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and the
Africa Soft Power Project. His work has earned him accolades such as the Afrobeats Hall of Fame
Induction (2022) and recognition as a Cannes Lions Jury Member (2024).
With a career defined by innovation, cultural preservation and global partnerships, Obi Asika
continues to shape Nigeria’s creative industries, solidifying its position as a global powerhouse.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, 27 March 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: House of Lords, London SW1A 0PW
This invitation-only event will bring together an elite group of visionaries, changemakers and leaders from the worlds
of government, culture and business. With limited spaces available, it promises an intimate setting for impactful
dialogue and collaboration.
ABOUT E.A.T.O.W. GLOBAL
E.A.T.O.W. (Embracing All Tones of Woman Ltd) is a global organisation committed to building
bridges between nations through culture, creativity and collaboration. With a mission to empower
creative professionals, E.A.T.O.W. drives innovation and fosters cross-cultural partnerships that
inspire global change