Pernod Ricard Nigeria Partners Afrobeat Rebellion to Celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s Musical Legacy

Pernod Ricard Nigeria Partners Afrobeat Rebellion to Celebrate Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s Musical Legacy

Lagos, Nigeria — In a powerful tribute to the life and enduring influence of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, through its flagship brand Jameson Irish Whiskey, has partnered with Afrobeat Rebellion, an immersive cultural and musical exhibition celebrating Fela’s legacy and global impact.

The 12-week-long exhibition, scheduled to run from October 12 to December 28, 2025, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, will feature an array of events — including live performances, concerts, exhibitions, film screenings, book readings, and children’s programmes — all dedicated to showcasing the creative spirit of the Afrobeat pioneer.

Speaking on the collaboration, Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, said the partnership reflects Jameson’s longstanding commitment to creativity, culture, and community.

“Jameson has always been deeply connected to culture and creativity. Supporting Afrobeat Rebellion is a natural extension of our commitment to celebrating Nigerian heritage and the powerful role of music in shaping identity,” she said. “For over a decade, Jameson has worked with emerging and established artists to showcase Nigerian talent to the world, and we are proud to be part of this historic celebration of Fela’s legacy.”

Organized by the Whitespace Creative Arts Foundation, the French Embassy, and the Philharmonie de Paris, in collaboration with Fela’s family and the annual Felabration Festival, Afrobeat Rebellion is set to be the most comprehensive showcase of Fela’s work ever staged on the African continent.

Building on the original exhibition curated by the Philharmonie de Paris and the Fela Kuti Family in Paris, the Lagos edition brings Fela’s story “home” — celebrating his artistry, activism, and influence on global music and culture.

Papa Omotayo, Creative Director of Whitespace Creative Arts, described the exhibition as a cultural renaissance designed to honour Fela’s contributions to music and social consciousness.

“Afrobeat Rebellion is more than an exhibition; it is a cultural movement that honours Fela, his family, and the global reach of Afrobeat music,” Omotayo said. “With Jameson’s support, we aim to deliver an unforgettable experience that blends music, history, and heritage.”

Echoing this sentiment, Kannayo Okoli, Brand Partnerships Director at Whitespace Creative Arts, highlighted the importance of aligning with brands that share Fela’s values and spirit.

“For this landmark project, we partnered exclusively with brands that embody the values of Fela and the essence of the exhibition, contributing to preserving the legacy of one of Africa’s most iconic cultural figures,” Okoli stated.

Through this partnership, Pernod Ricard Nigeria reinforces its ethos of conviviality — fostering shared moments of culture, music, and community — while celebrating one of Nigeria’s greatest artistic and cultural icons.