From Kalakuta to Hull: Why Felabration finds its home here

From African mariners and advocates for abolition to modern-day creators, Hull possesses a Black heritage that often goes unacknowledged. This October, Felabration UK introduces Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat and legacy to northern England, aligning with his birthday celebration and Black History Month. Fágbèmí Ọ̀ṣìnúgà, the visionary behind The Gidi Vibes™, orchestrates the festival, intertwining history, rhythm, and community to honor African creativity throughout the diaspora.

A popular phrase in Nigerian Pidgin states: “Wetin you dey find for Sokoto dey for your shokoto.” What you seek from afar is frequently right beside you. This sentiment has lingered with me while I get ready for Felabration 2025 — not in Lagos, London, or Lisbon, but in Hull, located in northern England.

For many Nigerians, Hull may not be the initial city that pops up when considering Black history or African heritage. Nevertheless, Hull possesses a profound Black narrative that predates the term multiculturalism.

This port city has consistently served as a portal. From the African and Caribbean seafarers who navigated its waters centuries ago to the abolitionists who battled against slavery, and the artists and learners who discovered their creative spirit here, Black individuals have been intricately connected to the city’s heartbeat for generations.

Even William Wilberforce, the most notable figure from Hull, was influenced by this bond. His relentless campaign against the transatlantic slave trade initiated in this city, where ships once docked at shores that would eventually cultivate Afrobeat. This tension, existing between oppression and liberation, silence and melody, underscores why Hull is an ideal location for hosting Felabration.

When we initially introduced Felabration to Hull in 2024, I had no clear expectations. The intent was straightforward: to honor Fela Kuti’s artistic contributions, message, and activism. However, the outcome proved to be even more meaningful. The residents of Hull welcomed it with open arms. The atmosphere was genuine and inquisitive, fostering a sense of recognition, as if something once lost had finally returned home.

Hull comprehends movement and defiance. This is a city marked by currents — of transformation, interchange, and growth. In this respect, it resembles Lagos: both cities grapple with identity, discover beauty within adversity, and convert disorder into artistic expression.

This year, as we gear up for Felabration 2025: Shakara – Bold Expressions of Afrobeat, our efforts extend beyond organizing a festival. We are celebrating a heritage. Hull’s Black narrative is not an import — it represents an ongoing story.

Naturally, establishing such a platform now comes with its own set of hurdles. Stricter immigration regulations, rising living costs, and shifting focus are all current realities. Many from the diaspora are prioritizing essentials such as survival, paperwork, stability, and financial support. Yet, within this struggle, there exists a deeply human and political aspect to gathering for music, artistry, and community. Afrobeat emerged as a reflection — revealing truths, confronting injustices, and commemorating resilience and joy, even amidst difficulties. Felabration in Hull transcends mere nostalgia.