Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) for its consistent contribution to youth empowerment and cultural development, describing its inaugural Queen Esther Ball Gala as a milestone for Nigeria’s creative industry.

The event, held on October 19 at the Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos, marked the beginning of SPAN’s 20th anniversary celebrations and brought together key figures from government, business, and the arts.

Guests included diplomats, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and notable creative industry veterans such as actress Joke Silva.

The Queen Esther Ball Gala was designed to celebrate 11 outstanding debutantes whose work reflects creativity, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised SPAN’s founder, Sarah Boulos, for her two decades of dedication to developing the performing arts in Nigeria.

He described SPAN as a model institution that has redefined creative education and mentorship for young Nigerians and assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives promoting youth talent and cultural expression.

“The creative sector remains a vital engine of opportunity and identity, our government recognises the importance of investing in young people whose talents can shape the economy and project Nigeria’s image globally” Sanwo-Olu said.

He also pledged his administration’s support for the debutantes, many of whom have launched small enterprises and social initiatives through their involvement with SPAN’s mentorship programmes.

Founder Sarah Boulos, in her remarks, reflected on the organisation’s journey since its establishment in 2005, crediting the institution’s success to resilience, discipline, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts.

She described the gala as a celebration of faith, creativity, and service, aimed at inspiring the next generation of Nigerian artists.

The programme featured the official launch of SPAN @ 20, a symbolic introduction to the organisation’s next growth phase.

The evening’s performances included a cello and dance trio, theatrical excerpts from The Queen Esther Ball musical, and a SPAN ensemble choral presentation.

The gala concluded with the SPAN Anthem, performed by the full cast and management team, and a lively closing concert by Tee Mac’s Gold Convention Band.

The Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) was founded in 2005 as a non-profit institution committed to providing accessible, world-class education in dance, drama, music, and production arts.

Over the years, it has produced hundreds of trained performers who have advanced into professional careers locally and abroad.

Boulos, a certified performing arts administrator and drama instructor, has positioned SPAN as a hub for talent development, community engagement, and international collaboration.

The Queen Esther Ball Gala, she said, symbolises a renewed call for investment in Nigeria’s creative capital.