Itsekiri NextGen Project: 2024 Session  7 Report

Topic: Cultural session 

Date: 8th  of March  2025

Volunteers Present: 5

Total Number of Attendees: 60

Timings: 9:00am – 1:00pm

Venue: Former Caravan 4, Aja-Pessu (Pessu Town), Warri

Main Topic/Activity: Cultural session 

Resource Person:  Mr. Deko Edun

Summary

It was a cultural session where Mr. Deko came with his team of drummers to beat the Itsekiri traditional drum and teach the participants the Itsekiri dance steps.

Session Delivery

The Itsekiri NextGen cultural session was a resounding success! The atmosphere was electric, with live drummers playing traditional Itsekiri drums that echoed through the room.

Participants, who had been encouraged to wear traditional wrappers, eagerly joined the Ugba (line of dancers). Meanwhile, those without wrappers had the opportunity to observe the drummers up close and learn about the intricacies of traditional drumming.

Under the expert guidance of Mr. Deko Edun, participants learned the intricacies of Itsekiri dance steps. With patience and enthusiasm, Mr. Deko broke down the steps, counting 1-4 to the right and then to the left, as his team provided the rhythmic beat on the drums. The session was further enriched by Mr. Deko’s soulful rendition of an Itsekiri song.

As the session progressed, participants were invited to dance in pairs, showcasing their newly acquired skills. The coordinator and Rev. Jolomi provided supportive guidance, ensuring everyone felt included and had a wonderful time.

The drum drew the attention of passersby and  people in the surrounding area to Itsekiri. NextGen.

The session was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and learning, and everyone left with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Itsekiri heritage.

Volunteers:

• Toju Ogharandukun
• Jolomi Tedeye
• Itse Mirabel Ukubeyinje
• Emmanuel Egbe

Other key activities during the session

Dancing 

What went wrong 

The drummers came in late