As part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Troupe of Nigeria has staged Tafawa Balewa: The Golden Voice of Africa, a compelling theatrical tribute celebrating the life and legacy of the nation’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
Written and directed by Ola Awakan, Award-winning Broadcast Journalist and Dramatist, the stage play forms part of the Tales of Legends series an initiative aimed at reviving historical consciousness among Nigerians, particularly the younger generation.
Awakan explained that the project seeks to reconnect young people with the country’s founding history and values.
“You cannot talk about Nigeria’s independence without mentioning Tafawa Balewa,” he said. “Many young people today hardly know his contributions to nation-building. If you don’t know where you’re coming from, where you’re going may not be clear to you. That’s why we’re telling his story again, through the eyes of children.”
Unlike previous editions performed by adult actors in Lagos and Abuja, this year’s presentation features children from underprivileged backgrounds — a deliberate move to blend education, empowerment, and entertainment.
According to Awakan, all participating children will receive scholarships as part of the troupe’s effort to nurture their artistic talents and encourage them to dream big.
“We want them to see that, like Balewa, they too can grow from humble beginnings to greatness,” he added.
The Tales of Legends series began with a production honoring Mama Abibatu Mogaji, the late mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Building on that success, the troupe’s latest offering highlights Balewa’s journey from a modest teacher in Bauchi to a respected statesman known across Africa as “The Golden Voice.”
Awakan revealed that the production will tour Bauchi State Balewa’s birthplace before the end of the year, with future editions set to spotlight other iconic Nigerians who shaped the nation’s destiny.
“Nigeria is a home of stories,” he said. “We can’t exhaust the lives of the great men and women who built this country. After Tafawa Balewa, another legend will take the stage.”
Beyond entertainment, the director emphasised the play’s role in promoting unity, patriotism, and civic responsibility.
“We can’t always blame the government,” he noted. “Each of us must contribute to building our nation. President Bola Tinubu is doing his best through the Renewed Hope Agenda, and though it may be tough now, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
