Edith CHUKU
A two-day festival has been held at the Shark Stadium, Port Harcourt in Rivers State, in honour of the late Niger Delta music icon, Cardinal Rex Jim Lawson.
The event organised by a non-governmental organization, Kelvin Gigi Foundation, was in appreciation for Lawson’s contributions and role in the music industry.
The remembrance ceremony which held on Saturday and Sunday, featured music performances by artists like Lady IB, Mozy B, Arthur Pepple and Chief Dumo Oruobo.
The “Rex Jim Lawson Festival 2025” also featured a novelty football match, Rex Lawson documentary, film screening, talent hunt, tributes, awards presentation and other programmes.
It was attended by prominent leaders in the Niger Delta region, artists and music lovers within and outside the Niger Delta.
Speaking during the event, the chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Mr. Gigi Kelvin commended all in attendance for gracing the ceremony.
Gigi noted that honouring the late music icon was a dream come through.
He said “I have dreamt over years considering the roles played by late icon especially in high life music to honour him.
“Late Rex Lawson’s contribution in music cannot be underscored.
“Music has been neglected by the youths nowadays because the African culture especially that of Niger Delta has been taken over by the white man’s culture.
“It is important to note that high life music promotes African culture and heritage. The celebration of late music icon will help to bring back the lost glory of the people and inspire future generations, promote cultural preservation.”
Kelvin maintained that “music helps for artistic expressions, community engagement of youths whereby reducing youths restiveness.
“I thank the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, for their support to make my dream see the light of the day. I promise to use my foundation to make this dream an annual festival.
Further, one of the daughters of the late music icon, lady Victoria Rex lawson thanked the organiser, Gigi, for celebrating her late father considering his role in music industry.
She commended all that contributed towards the celebration. She urged the youths to “emulate my late father by engaging into artistic and music industry so that the culture of their forefathers will continue to reign.”
At the event, awards were presented to outstanding personalities in the various field of endeavours, including the suspended governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
