World Oceans Day: SEKI KULTURE Activates The Cardinal for Blue Economy Cultural Diplomacy

As activities marking the 2026 World Oceans Day continue, SEKI KULTURE has deployed its acclaimed musical production, The Cardinal, as a platform for advancing Blue Economy cultural diplomacy while celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Niger Delta.

The initiative, which forms part of efforts to connect culture, heritage and sustainable development, has drawn commendation from stakeholders who say it demonstrates how the creative industry can support conversations around coastal communities, heritage tourism and economic opportunities linked to the region’s waterways.

At the heart of the production is a tribute to some of the Niger Delta’s most celebrated Highlife legends, including Cardinal Rex Jim Lawson, Prince David Bull, Joe Nez and Boma Bonnie, whose music helped shape Nigeria’s cultural identity and established Port Harcourt as a leading centre of artistic excellence during the golden era of Highlife music.

Created by theatre practitioner and cultural ambassador Yibo Koko and curated by SEKI KULTURE, The Cardinal tells the story of a young dreamer navigating love, ambition and self-discovery against the backdrop of Port Harcourt’s vibrant music scene.

Beyond entertainment, the production serves as a vehicle for preserving the stories and legacies of the musicians whose artistry projected the Niger Delta to national prominence.

Koko described the production as a celebration of cultural icons whose creativity transformed the region into one of Nigeria’s foremost centres of artistic excellence.

According to him, The Cardinal reflects SEKI KULTURE’s commitment to using arts and culture as instruments of cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation and sustainable development.

Cultural advocate Victor Agih said the production provides an opportunity to reconnect younger generations with the region’s musical heritage while showcasing the economic value of cultural assets.

“The Cardinal not only honours the contributions of Highlife legends, it also demonstrates how culture can drive tourism, strengthen community identity and contribute to sustainable economic growth,” he said.

Agih noted that the stories of Rex Lawson and his contemporaries remain relevant because they embody the resilience, creativity and spirit of the Niger Delta people.

Stakeholders observed that the production aligns with this year’s World Oceans Day theme, “Reimagining Our Relationship with the Ocean,” by highlighting the historic relationship between the region’s waterways, cultural traditions, commerce and community life.

They said SEKI KULTURE’s deployment of The Cardinal as a cultural diplomacy initiative illustrates how music, theatre and heritage can help preserve indigenous knowledge, promote tourism and support broader Blue Economy objectives.

As World Oceans Day celebrations continue, stakeholders maintain that initiatives such as The Cardinal demonstrate the growing role of culture in shaping sustainable development conversations, while ensuring that the music and legacy of Niger Delta Highlife pioneers remain a source of inspiration for future generations.