by Isi Esene

Obi Asika, Chairman Dragon Africa, Chairman Social Media Week Lagos, founder Storm 360 one of Africa’s foremost creative entrepreneurs has joined theAfrican Advisory committee of the Smithsonian’sNational Museum of African Art in Washington DC, led by Gathoni Kamau, the Community Outreach Specialist for Education.

Asika is the first overseas individual invited to join the committee.

“I am really excited about working with the Smithsonian to help them further their mission with the African diaspora. In particular, I look forward to curating a week of programming to honor and celebrate Nigeria arts and culture in 2015,” said Asika.

“Obi Asika is perhaps the primary advocate for the Nigerian Creative Industries and is somebody who by pedigree, intellect and his personal drive and passion represents the best of Nigeria on a consistent basis. We are excited to learn of his appointment to the Smithsonian and while we celebrate with him we look forward to working closely with him to insure Nigeria is well represented at this global institution” said Edem Duke the Honorary Minister of Culture, Tourism & National Orientation, Nigeria.

Separate from the Smithsonian’s National Advisory Board, the African Advisory Committee’s mission is to advocate and foster greater understanding of African art and culture, to encourage greater engagement of African diasporic communities and to enhance the National Museum of African Art’s educational programs. The committee is comprised of men and women of the African diaspora committed to enhancing the arts and cultures of Africa.

Obi Asika, 46, is an African media entrepreneur, a visionary entrepreneur with a focus on media, broadcast, content, sports and technology. Obi is a 2012 Honoree of the African Leadership Network. He is a member of the governing council of Africa 2.0 and is Co-Champion for rebranding Africa. He serves as a mentor for the Mara Foundation and has supported numerous youth and charity platforms and agencies for years.

Obi has been executive producer of numerous TV Shows, Live Events and Conferences, these include, Social Media Week Lagos, The World Pension Summit Africa Special,  And The Winner is TV Show, Football Legends, Ignite TV, Calabar Rocks, Naija Sings, The Apprentice Africa, Dragons Den Nigeria and Big Brother Nigeria to mention a few.

Obi was ISL marketing Representative in West Africa (now FIFA marketing) between 1999-2002 and he was tournament producer for FIFA U20 World Cup 1999, CAF Nations Cup 2000 Nigeria/Ghana and Mali Nations Cup 2002. He has served as Vice-Chairman of Kwara Utd, A Nigerian Premier League Club and has over 20 years experience in the business of Football & Sports Marketing.

We anticipate Asika’s three year commitment will enhance awareness of the museum and build audiences and supporters throughout the continent, and allow for a greater dialog. To learn more about the committee send inquiries to [email protected]

Isime Esene