United States National Youth Poet Laureate, Salome Agbaroji, visited Nigeria recently as part of the U.S. Department of State’s Arts Envoy Programme.
The rimer, a celebrated Nigerian-American, has performed spoken word poetry at the White House, the United Nations, and the Golden Globes Pre-Show, among many other prestigious stages. 
During her visit to Nigeria, Agbaroji, a first-year Harvard University student, travelled to Enugu to connect with her roots and immerse herself in the local arts and culture scene.
She visited the Centre for Memories, a repository of the rich history and culture of the Igbo people, hosted a poetry workshop at the University of Nigeria’s Window on America, and headlined an evening of discussions and networking with the creative community in Enugu.
In Lagos, Agbaroji conducted workshops for young poets and spoken word artists, visited the University of Lagos to meet creative arts professors and students, and hosted a poetry slam competition for high school students.
To conclude her visit, the poet joined Nigerian spoken word artist and 2022 Lagos International Poetry Festival Slam Champion, Deborah Johnson for a moderated conversation about their work in the creative industry. The event featured poem recitations and an open mic session, where Agbaroji and other artists shared their work.
Audiences in Lagos and Enugu, including high school and university students, arts professors, emerging and established poets and artists, found Agbaroji’s work relatable, engaging, and enjoyable.
Agbaroji’s desire to share her talents in poetry through mentorships and workshops resulted in meaningful connections and cultural exchange with the Nigerian literary community. The activities in both cities inspired young students to envision a future in the creative arts through poetry.
Reflecting on her visit, Agbaroji expressed appreciation for being able to connect with Nigeria’s vibrant art scene through the U.S. Arts Envoy Programme.
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