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Africa Knows! It is time to decolonise minds

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Accepted Paper: E32-08. To panel E32.

Title of paper:

Author:

Albert Oikelome (University of Lagos).

Long abstract paper:
There is unprecedented growth in the urban population in Nigeria, leading to ecological constraints. Lagos is one of the fastest-growing states in Nigeria with young people make up to a third of people living in the slums. Interestingly, music and dance have become a tool for economic sustainability and communal cohesion within the slums have produced some of the best musicians in the country using music and dance as an effective means of economic empowerment and cultural rejuvenation. This study, therefore, interrogates the youths in selected slums and their 'well-being' in the growing community. Furthermore, it investigates the numerous music and dance groups being created and managed by young people in the area and how they have impacted greatly on the economic development of the slums. The study also examines ways in which young people are mentoring other young folks and helping them to discover and develop their innate talents in the community thereby pushing to build sustainable alternatives. The study highlights ways by which the youths in the slum are seeking to build bridges between the indigenous past, and the urban present that the youths have been used to as a result of the effect of globalization and the social media. Four communities are selected for the study. They are Bariga, Ijegun, Ajegunle, and Mushin community. The study also intends to investigate some project centers in the selected slums. It will also investigate numerous music groups, dance troupes, Music Studios, Dj spots, and art centers in the area that have been set up by young people in the areas. Through a detailed ethnographic study of the young musicians, dancers, and troupes among the group, the study reveals how the young people are appropriating the power of the arts for self-development and sustainability. Furthermore, it will show how the indigenous music and tradition in the slums are being practiced, invigorated and sustained through a continuous process of self-discovery.