FirstBank of Nigeria has announced its sponsorship of a major musical theatre production, The Jewel, a project by Eko Hotels and Suites that celebrates Nigerian literature and the performing arts.
At a press briefing held at Eko Hotels on Wednesday, FirstBank’s leadership emphasized the bank’s consistent investment in the creative sector. The show, described as a Broadway-style performance, draws inspiration from classic Nigerian plays and aims to elevate African storytelling on a global stage.
“From music to spoken word, theatre to behind-the-scenes production, FirstBank has always stood by the creative industry,” said Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications. “Our support extends to every link in the value chain.”
Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, Head of Sponsorships, Partnerships, Events & Collaborations, added that the bank’s involvement was more than just funding. “This initiative empowers not only the performers but the entire ecosystem—writers, costume designers, sound engineers—everyone who makes the magic happen,” she explained.
General Manager of Eko Hotels, Danny Kioupouroglou, also highlighted the shared vision between both institutions. “FirstBank’s interest isn’t about the venue—it’s about the art. Together, we’re building something that supports talent and builds a sustainable creative economy,” he said.
Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo, Director of Sales and Marketing at Eko Hotels and Suites, described The Jewel as a reimagined production that fuses the works of Nigerian literary legends Wole Soyinka and Ola Rotimi. “This is more than a performance—it’s a cultural revival,” she said. “We want to remind the world of the depth and beauty of African literature.”
The Jewel was staged at the Eko Convention Centre on April 18 and 19, supported proudly by FirstBank.