Feature Archives

Feature

Explainers, analyses, and essays on government policies, and political trends and movements around the continent

Faridah Folawiyo’s Year of Yes

A recurring theme in Folawiyo’s discussion of her work is accessibility, not as a marketing term but as something closer to a personal correction.

Anjola Akinmade

2 months ago

Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, The Custodian of Action and Nollywood’s Voice of Reason

Nollywood actor Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, who has died aged 66 of an unnamed cancer, inspired Nigerian film audiences and industry practitioners with his commanding performances and recorded goodwill. The actor who has stayed away from mainstream attention and conversation was the face of recent conversation after one of his daughters posted a video detailing the […]

Seyi Lasisi

1 month ago

“Starrgirl”: Ayra Starr Trades Becoming for Being

In Starrgirl, Ayra Starr does not ask you to reconsider Ayra Starr. She assumes you already know who she is and expects you to keep up. The title alone sends listeners a message before they press play. Her first two records were titled around age — 19 & Dangerous introduced a fearless, fast-talking teenager; The […]

Anjola Akinmade

1 month ago

Mid-Year Review: The 10 Best Nigerian Songs of 2026

In the spirit of culture curation, Culture Custodian has put together a list of the best songs of 2026, so far.

John Eriomala

3 months ago

What Exactly Is All This Sex Doing in Blood Sisters?

Blood Sisters Understands That Sex Can Tell a Story. It Just Doesn’t Always Know What Story It’s Telling.

Naomi Ezenwa

4 months ago

Reconciling The Disparity Between TikTok Virality And Artistic Integrity

Washington DC-based Nigerian artist, Mannywellz, has been one of the most prominent voices in Nigeria’s alternative scene since 2022. Since his debut in 2017, he’s perfected a mellifluous but gorgeously poignant sound that takes equal inspiration from RnB, Hip-Hop, and Afrobeats. He recently released a snippet from his just-released Lala EP. Almost immediately after its […]

Chibuzo Emmanuel

2 years ago

Ayo Maff Is The Prince Of The Streets

Ayo Maff’s very first trip outside the country was to go perform at London’s O2 arena. This was for Asake’s concert in September, an experience that he describes as “a dream come true.” In truth, the entire year has been nothing short of dreamlike for the 19 year old christened Ayorinde Mafoluku. His two-pack of […]

Patrick Ezema

2 years ago

Josh Olaoluwa Is Seeking Global Relevance for Nollywood Films

For filmmaker Josh Olaoluwa, gaining acceptance into the esteemed Venice Film Lab was the realization of a long-held dream. Thrilled to have this opportunity come true, he is brimming with high expectations for the impact Nigerian creatives can make on the global stage—an ambition he is determined to fulfill through his own work. Olaoluwa’s passion […]

Shalom Tewobola

2 years ago

Wizkid’s Piece of My Heart Brings The Effectiveness of Controversy Into Question

On the 18th of August, after months of effecting a relentless campaign against Davido, Wizkid finally released the lead single to his imminent album, a characteristically sensual track entitled Piece of My Heart. In true Wizkid fashion, the reactions were swift. Barely moments after the song’s release, his doting army of fans began championing it […]

Chibuzo Emmanuel

2 years ago

My Life In Nollywood: KC Obiajulu

Every week, The Culture Custodian grants you an all-access backstage pass into the lives of Nollywood rock stars. You get to learn about their fascinating backgrounds, the behind-the-scenes stories, and more. This episode features ace cinematographer KC Obiajulu. KC Obiajulu’s first name is Kenechukwu, but he prefers to be called “KC”—as a matter of style. […]

Adedamola Adedayo

2 years ago

Who Really Belongs in Lagos?

It’s 1990 and there’s an uprising in the streets. Three hundred thousand Lagosians have been forcibly displaced from their homes in Maroko community by the Nigerian military government without provision for alternative housing. Helpless and suddenly homeless, many move to find temporary shelter with relatives while others become friends with the shadows of Lagos, sleeping […]

Deborah Oludimu

2 years ago

Foluso Agbaje’s “The Parlour Wife” Is An Ode to Women Battling for Selfhood

Foluso Agbaje paints colonial Lagos with masterful strokes, breathing life into every scene. The colonial administrators stride through the streets of Ikoyi and Lagos Island, casting long shadows over the indigenous life below. The rhythmic tides near the sea where Baba Kehinde dies whisper ancient stories, while the Ereko market pulses with raw life: the […]

Shalom Tewobola

2 years ago

Nigerian Lives: 5 Nigerians on Their Worst Interview Yet

These experiences, while amusing in hindsight, point to deeper issues within Nigeria’s corporate culture—the sometimes arbitrary nature of hiring processes, the blurred lines between professional and personal spheres, and the often unexpected criteria candidates must navigate. Yet they also showcase the resilience and adaptability of Nigerian job seekers, who often must think on their feet […]

Shalom Tewobola

2 years ago