Headlines portray the Sahara as a barren desert that claims the lives of many African migrants but Nigerian poet Tade Ipadeola had a different story to tell — and it was worth $100,000.

The Centre for Contemporary Art, (CCA), Yaba was always beehive of activities because of what the centre offers to the art community, but last Friday was a different ball game as people from all works of life, art collectors, patrons, artists, students, alumni of the University of Nigeria, Fine and Applied Art department and art lovers gathered at the centre during the opening ceremony of a special exhibition to celebrate, a teacher, sculptor and one described as one of the most exciting contemporary visual artists from Africa, El Anatsui and his monumental works as he turned 70.

“If I disagree with you on a matter, I hardly pull back and I enjoy having arguments but my arguments don’t lead to malice rather, they are for the progress of Nigeria.”

The Federal Government has created additional directorates in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation.

The much awaited show featuring Nigeria’s Afro beat legend, Femi and German reggae artist, Gentleman, took place penultimate week at the Afrika Shrine Ikeja, Lagos.