All is now set for Ogun’s Governor Dapo Abiodun MFR, to roll out the drums to celebrate an accomplished academic, a theatre exponent and a folk Arts Grandee, Pa Jimi Solanke in continuation of his 80th birthday anniversary.
Uncle Jimi, as he is fondly called by acquaintances and fans the world over, celebrated his 80th birthday in the company of close associate at his country home in Ipara, Ogun state.
At the mammoth celebration, was the unveiling of Ibudo Asa Center, Ipara-Remo – a resource center to train, coach and mentor artistes, novices, rookies, aspirants and those who need to upscale their crafts, capacities and skills in the fine details of performing arts.
The native of Ipara-Remo possesses the triad qualities of sincerity, warmth and astute discipline. Uncle Jimi possesses a larger-than-life demeanor and an unmistakable creative signature marked by his sweet-sounding baritone voice, and an ageless charisma. His inputs in the creative space both as a mentor to many budding and established creative specialists both home and abroad spread over decades.
Consistently in the past decades he has become an accomplished veteran of varied exposures, experiences and made outstanding impact and contribution to the global community thereby effortlessly becoming a global phenomenon.
In its recognition of Solanke’s towering place in history and stellar accomplishments to the development of general arts, the Ogun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism is partnering with Evergreen Musical Company Ltd in organising a Grand Ball Event in honour of the superlative music debonair.
The event will also witness the launching/unveiling of a 127-page photo book and music compendium that showcases the musical odyssey of Pa Jimi Solanke as he remains relevant after seven decades of active contributions to arts and culture.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Adijat Adeleye Oladapo noted that, “Jimi Solanke is one of Ogun State Musical treasures that has overtime become an artistic phenomenon with cutting edge knowledge in everything art.”
The Ogun State number one arts promoter while paying glowing tributes to the man who has impacted the lives of every generation, maintained that it is just normal to pay him back with a State recognition celebration.
At the Grand Ball Event which is coming up at the June 12 Cultural Event Center, Abeokuta in October, there are series of lined up activities being put together for him.
Packaged by Olayinka Agboola
