Salome Agbaroji, the 2023/2024 U.S. National Youth Poet Laureate, visited Nigeria from July 21 to 29 as part of the U.S. Department of State’s Arts Envoy Program. Agbaroji, a celebrated Nigerian American poet, has performed spoken word poetry at prestigious stages such as the White House, the United Nations, and the Golden Globes Pre-Show. She visited Enugu to connect with her roots and immerse herself in the local arts and culture scene.
In Lagos, Agbaroji conducted workshops for young poets and spoken word artists, visited the University of Lagos to meet creative arts professors and students, and hosted a poetry slam competition for high school students.
To conclude her visit, she joined Nigerian spoken word artist Deborah Johnson for a moderated conversation about their work in the creative industry.
Audiences in Lagos and Enugu found Agbaroji’s work relatable, engaging, and enjoyable. Her desire to share her talents in poetry through mentorships and workshops resulted in meaningful connections and cultural exchange with the Nigerian literary community.
“I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to visit Nigeria for the first time through the Arts Envoy program. Watching a participant start a poem during our workshop, collaborate with others, and then perform it live at our open mic night was incredibly uplifting,” the young poet said.
The activities in both cities inspired young students to envision a future in the creative arts through poetry.
U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer Julie McKay highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges like Agbaroji’s visit to Nigeria and the potential to bring Americans and Nigerians together to share ideas, promote mutual understanding, and freedom of expression.
The Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria supports programs that bring American cultural leaders to Nigeria to meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate with their Nigerian counterparts, fostering a deeper relationship between the people of Nigeria and the United States.
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