By Efe Onodjae

The French embassy and the French Institute in Nigeria (FIN), in collaboration with Nigerian creatives Abba Makama and Anthony Dike, is set to host Digitalism, a multi-faceted event celebrating the intersection of digital technology and alternative culture.

The event is scheduled to be held at O’DA Gallery in Lagos on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024. It will kick off at 5 p.m. and run until 11 p.m.

Digitalism will feature virtual and augmented reality experiences, a documentary screening, a panel discussion, and a vinyl DJ set by Jomi Marcus-Bello. The aim of the event is to encourage the audience to explore and reflect on what it means to be “alternative” in the digital age.

The highlight of the event will be the Lagos premiere of the documentary The Kids Are O.K. by Nigerian film director Abba Makama. The documentary explores the different forms of alté culture in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos. In contrast to the mainstream, alté culture is expressed in fashion, music, sports, and gender identity. The documentary seeks to meet the various individuals who identify with this movement, questioning their place in society and attempting to define what unites them.

The screening will be followed by a discussion and a Q&A session moderated by the director of The Republic journal, Awake Lawal, alongside film director Abba Makama, Jomi Marcus-Bello (WAF), Kunle Tejuosho (Jazzhole), and creative director/designer/stylist Ashley Okoli.

The French Embassy in Nigeria and the French Institute in Nigeria are organizing this event as part of Novembre Numérique, an annual international event launched by the Institut Français to celebrate digital culture and innovation. Novembre Numérique examines the role of digital technology in our societies, provides training on new uses, and showcases the richness and diversity of digital creation.