Niger Delta Music Group to Perform at Bradford African Festival of Arts in UK

By Salami Adeyinka

A Niger Delta-based traditional music ensemble, D’ Because Of Love Crew, also known as Alfred JKing & The Because Of Love Crew, has been confirmed as one of the performers at the 2026 Bradford African Festival of Arts (BAFA) in the United Kingdom.

The festival, which showcases African music, arts and culture, will feature performers from across the continent and the diaspora. The group’s participation is expected to highlight Owigiri music, a traditional genre associated with the Izon people of Bayelsa State.

According to the organisers, the band’s participation is being sponsored by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), which said the initiative forms part of its support for cultural promotion and youth development in the Niger Delta.

Founded in 2011, D’ Because Of Love Crew performs traditional Owigiri music alongside contemporary arrangements and has appeared at cultural festivals, public events and social gatherings within Nigeria.

The group was established by Alfred Izon-Ebi, popularly known as Alfred JKing, a graduate of Theatre Arts from Niger Delta University. He trained under the late Owigiri musician, King (Dr.) Robert Ebizimor, who played a role in the development of the ensemble during its formative years.

Over the years, the group has expanded its repertoire to include performances in Izon and other Nigerian languages while maintaining its focus on traditional music and dance.

Speaking ahead of the festival, Alfred JKing described the invitation as an opportunity to showcase Izon culture to an international audience.

According to him, the performance will also serve as a platform to celebrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage and honour the legacy of his late mentor, King Robert Ebizimor.

The delegation travelling to the United Kingdom comprises seven members, including Alfred JKing, Misabi Ruth Ebisindou, Goodness Suo Idiseimokumo, Promise Onuagha, Nimis Tungbowei, Isoma Lawrence Onyedioramma and Kenneth Kofi.

Organisers of the festival said the event is intended to promote cultural exchange by bringing together African artistes and audiences through music, dance and other artistic performances.

The group’s participation is expected to contribute to the growing international exposure of Nigerian traditional music and cultural performances.