Founder and Artistic Director of Peekok YouthARTS Initiatives and Director, Oyetunji Olu Akinloye, has said the troupe’s participation at the FUSE International Festival 2026 in Kingston upon Thames, United Kingdom, will provide a valuable platform for young Nigerian artists to engage with their international counterparts while serving as ambassadors of the country.

A delegation, coordinated by Peekok YouthARTS Initiatives (PYI) and supported by the Lagos State government, is set to represent Nigeria at the festival with a multidisciplinary production entitled, ÀJỌ – The Sojourn.

Scheduled for presentation on Friday, June 26, 2026, ÀJỌ – The Sojourn is a contemporary performance that combines dance, music, rhythm, movement, and visual storytelling to explore themes of migration, identity, resilience, cultural belonging, and hope.

According to Akinloye, “the delegation comprises talented young artists, performers, cultural practitioners, and creative educators from Lagos State who will showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, artistic excellence, and youthful creativity before an international audience.”

He said: “The production draws inspiration from the journeys and experiences of young people navigating an increasingly interconnected world while remaining rooted in their cultural heritage.”

Akinloye said the delegation’s participation has been made possible through support of the Lagos State government, whose commitment to youth development, cultural promotion, and international creative engagement continues to provide opportunities for young people to excel on the global stage.

“We are grateful for the support of the Lagos State government in making this international cultural exchange possible. This opportunity allows our young artists to share authentic Nigerian stories while building meaningful connections with audiences and artists from around the world,” he stated.

Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende and other relevant government stakeholders have expressed interest support for the project as part of ongoing efforts to promote Lagos as a centre of creativity, innovation, and cultural excellence.

He added that the initiative aligned with the state government’s vision of empowering young people through arts, culture, education, and international exposure.

Held yearly by the United Kingdom-based organisation, Creative Youth, FUSE International Festival is one of the world’s leading international events for emerging artists. The festival brings together young creatives from across the globe to share ideas, present original works, and foster intercultural understanding through artistic expression.