Members of the Society for Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) and Ford Foundation have reiterated need to support creative expressions among youths and underserved communities in the country.

They stated this during the recent celebration of six-months of expanding regional dancer outreach across SPAN Lagos, SPAN Ketu Omojuwa and SPAN on the Road (Maiduguri).

In her speech, Regional Director, West Africa Ford Foundation, ChiChi Aniagolu, said, “we are supporting SPAN to provide dance and music classes, especially to vulnerable young people in underserved communities. We are doing that because we see music and dance as being universal and it inspires young people. Not everybody will become doctor or lawyer. The music and film industry have done Nigeria very proud.”

Identifying funding gaps in the industry, she added, “so, when SPAN came to us for funds, we realised that this is a gap that must be bridged, especially when they decided they were going to underserved communities in conflict zones like Maiduguri.

“When they told us about Maiduguri, I was a bit sceptical. But watching the videos of the young people and how much they have been inspired beyond the conflict have been amazing. I’m really glad that we’ve been able to provide the support.”

On her part, SPAN Chief Operating Officer Remi Jemitola noted, “tonight marks a profound milestone in SPAN’s journey to democratise performing arts education across Nigeria.

Through the visionary support of the Ford Foundation, our SPAN on the Road (SOTR) initiative transitioned from a bold blueprint into a thriving reality.”

Over the past six months, she disclosed, “we successfully expanded our reach from our flagship Lagos Pilot Centre deep into the heart of Ketu Omojuwa, and Maiduguri. Together, we have given youths the tools of creative expression, discipline, and life-shaping confidence.

“Tonight, we celebrate more than choreography, we celebrate stories of resilience, growth and the infinite possibilities born of intentional partnership,”she stated.

The evening was also flavoured with contemporary dance fusion, choreography, multi-genre performances, professional dancers among others.

SPAN also presented custom, handcrafted appreciation plaques to the Ford Foundation staff.

For over two decades, SPAN has stood as a vanguard institution, nurturing world-class talent across dance, music, theatre, and film while driving youth empowerment and social development.

The methodology goes beyond movement. Students undergo rigorous holistic transformation matrix blending technical dance discipline, choreography, personal development, and public presentation to foster real community responsibility.