The significance of FESTAC '77 extends beyond the buildings it left behind. Its greatest achievement was the message it sent to the world. The festival showed that culture could be a powerful tool for building bridges between people, strengthening identity and promoting international understanding. Long before the global success of Afrobeats and Nollywood, FESTAC had already demonstrated the ability of Nigerian and African culture to command global attention.

Yet despite its importance, awareness of FESTAC '77 continues to decline. Many students have never studied it in school. Some know the National Theatre but not the event that inspired its construction. Others live in FESTAC Town without understanding the history behind its name. This growing disconnect from the past is unfortunate because nations that forget their cultural achievements risk losing an important part of their identity.

Remembering FESTAC '77 is not about living in the past. It is about understanding a moment when Nigeria successfully brought together people of African descent from across the world in celebration of a common heritage. It is about recognising the role culture can play in national development and international relations.

Today, Nigerians proudly celebrate the global success of Afrobeats, Nollywood and Nigerian fashion. Yet long before these industries gained international recognition, FESTAC '77 had already demonstrated the power of Nigerian and African culture on the world stage. The National Theatre still stands. FESTAC Town still exists. The memories remain. What is gradually disappearing is public awareness.

Nearly five decades after the festival, the time has come for a new generation of Nigerians to rediscover FESTAC '77not simply as a chapter in history, but as a reminder of what Nigeria can achieve when it chooses to lead through culture, creativity and unity.