In continuation of its unwavering support for the creative arts ecosystem, especially theatre and performing arts, FirstBank is partnering with Eko Hotels as the major sponsor to present a scintillating Theatre Broadway – JEWEL – during the Easer holiday.
Slated for April 18 and 19, 2025 at Eko Hotels and Suites Convention Centre, JEWEL is simply a story of love delivered in a mesmerizing blend of traditional Nigerian literary classics reimagined through innovative staging and contemporary musical arrangements.

It is an emotional rollercoaster that creates extraordinary experience that stays long after the curtain falls.
Set in the futuristic year of 2100, the ground breaking musical theatre is inspired by Wole Soyinka and Ola Rotimi's timeless plays – The Lion and The Jewel and Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again - and delivered mesmerizing attempt to redefine Broadway excellence on African soil. JEWEL, futuristically delivered, followed the intertwined fates of Seedi, LeYoka, Baruka, Leez and Lakoole in a show that redefines Broadway experience.

A collaborative effort of Eko Hotels alongside the director, Ice Nweke, JEWEL is a captivating theatrical experience, merging classic narratives with contemporary music, choreography, and visual storytelling.

The production aims to present a bold reimagining of African theatre, celebrating the richness of Nigerian culture.

In a media chat to announce the partnership and speak on JEWEL recently at the Penthouse of Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo, director of sales and marketing at Eko Hotels & Suites, revealed that it was the first time Eko Hotels is partnering with First Bank on theatre and arts and hoped that the relationship would transcend into the future. She appreciated the financial powerhouse, stating that without the support of institutions like it, many of these productions would not be possible. She excitedly assured them that “we are committed to bring on our stage activities that would bring the world to Africa, to Nigeria.”

Gbadebo noted that Eko Hotels has been a significant player in the cultural landscape, providing a platform for theatre and entertainment that enriches the community.

“Eko Hotels is more than just a place to stay; we are committed to creating an environment that fosters artistic expression,” she stated.

And on the JEWEL, she boasted: “The sheer brilliance of this production will leave you fascinated and in absolute awe. Theatre at Eko Hotels will be your new found love."

She went on: “Theatre is not only a transformative art form; it is a potent economic engine waiting to be fully explored in Nigeria. Africa shouldn’t seek permission to innovate; we can reimagine global standards in performing arts through our unique cultural lens and a powerful story telling technique.”

Also commenting on the Easter musical theatre, Mr. Olayinka Ijabiyi, group head, marketing and corporate communications, FirstBank, reiterated the bank’s support for the creative ecosystem, bearing in mind that in doing that, it is also honing skills, assisting in developing talents and impacting on the lives of many outstanding and diverse professionals and their families.

“Supporting arts is crucial for us,” Ijabiyi said. “We are thrilled to collaborate with them, as they bring an exceptional production to life. This partnership reflects FirstBank’s long-term engagement in supporting cultural initiatives and sporting events across Nigeria, which has spanned over two decades.”

“We recognize the value in enhancing the community through collaborations in both sporting and artistic events,” he observed.

Speaking, Chinwe Bode Akinwande, head of sponsorships, partnerships, events, and digital marketing at FirstBank, also highlighted the bank’s commitment to the creative sector.

She noted that FirstBank is not just about showcasing talent; it is also focused on empowering individuals in the advertising space through master classes, adding that these initiatives aim to integrate banking knowledge into the creative industry, also addresses various financial needs.
“Supporting the arts means putting food on tables,” Akinwande stated, underscoring the bank’s role in creating job opportunities for those in the creative sector, including those behind the scenes. “This holistic approach aims to in-still hope and encourage passion among artists,” she said.

Acknowledging that both Eko Hotels and FirstBank are more than just institutions, Danny Kioupouroglou, general manager of Eko Hotels and Suites said that both are pillars of the community that have thrived for a long time.

He extolled the hotel’s enduring legacy and continued growth despite challenges, saying that “when two institutions like this collaborate, something remarkable comes out of it.”

Kioupouroglou pointed out that Eko Hotels has a longstanding tradition of hosting theatre performances, particularly during the Christmas season, which has become a hallmark of their celebrations.

“Arts have been part of our identity for the past eight years, and we are proud to support events that enrich our community. And our goal is to impact our community and country positively. We are not just focused on our core business; we aim to grow and develop other areas within society,” he explained.

FirstBank has a rich legacy of supporting the arts and championing cultural development in Nigeria.

Through its First@arts initiative, the Bank has played a pivotal role in promoting artistic expression by providing platforms for creatives to showcase their talents and connect with wider audiences, including potential patrons.

Eko Hotel, known for its vibrant cultural support, has consistently championed theatre and the performing arts. Over the years, it has served as a premier venue for numerous acclaimed productions, including performances by some of Nigeria’s most respected theatre companies.