Fela Kuti Shrine | Lagos

The New Afrika Shrine is an iconic cultural venue located in Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. It is renowned as the spiritual home of Afrobeat music and serves as a living tribute to the legendary musician Fela Kuti. Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat, used the original Afrika Shrine as a space to express his socio-political ideas through his music and performances.

Origins and Legacy

Creation: The original Afrika Shrine was established by Fela Kuti in the 1970s as a venue for live performances, community gatherings, and political expression. It became a cultural hub for the people of Lagos and beyond, attracting both local and international audiences.

Destruction: In 1977, during a government raid, the original Afrika Shrine was destroyed, but the legacy of the venue continued to inspire Fela's followers and the music community.

Rebuilding: In 2000, Fela’s children, Femi and Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti, rebuilt the Afrika Shrine to honor their father’s legacy. The New Afrika Shrine was established in Ikeja, Lagos, continuing the cultural, musical, and political significance of the original space.

The New Afrika Shrine Today

Management: The New Afrika Shrine is operated by Femi Kuti and Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti, Fela’s children, who continue to uphold their father's vision for the venue.

Design and Capacity: The shrine has a capacity to accommodate up to 2,500 people. It features a stage for performances, a relaxed environment for patrons, and is designed to host both music and cultural events.

Facilities: Inside the shrine, there is a small library, pool tables, and chill-out areas for relaxation. The venue also hosts educational and outreach activities, further enriching its role in the community.

Cultural Significance

Music and Performance: The New Afrika Shrine is renowned for its Afrobeat music performances, and it continues to be a stage for top Afrobeat artists, including Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti, and other rising stars in the genre.

Felabration: The shrine is home to the Felabration festival, an annual celebration of Fela Kuti's life and music. This event attracts thousands of people each year, commemorating Fela’s influence on Afrobeat and his legacy of political activism through music.

Political Expression: In keeping with Fela’s tradition, the New Afrika Shrine serves as a venue for political expression, where artists and audiences continue to engage in dialogue about social and political issues facing Nigeria and the world.

Visiting the New Afrika Shrine

Opening Hours: The New Afrika Shrine is open seven days a week. It is a popular venue for nightly performances, often featuring live music and dance.

Admission: Admission fees are generally modest, with entrance costing around 500 Naira (approximately $1 USD).

Events: The venue hosts regular events, including live performances, dance nights, and special activities. It is a gathering place for both locals and international visitors to enjoy music, food, and drinks.

Address and Location

The New Afrika Shrine is located at:

Address: Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Cultural Influence

The New Afrika Shrine is not just a music venue; it is a space for political expression, community engagement, and cultural preservation. It is a testament to Fela Kuti's enduring impact on both the music world and the socio-political landscape of Nigeria. Visitors to the New Afrika Shrine can expect to experience a powerful fusion of Afrobeat music, history, activism, and celebration of African culture.

For more information or to plan a visit, you can check the official website or follow updates about events at the shrine.