Stories play a critical role in shaping how societies are perceived globally, as the image projected through narratives often defines a people’s identity, values and place in history.
This was the central message from a fireside conversation with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the 2026 Storyteller’s Conference organised by the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Visual Communications and Photography, Mr. Nosa Asemota.
The conference, themed “Stories That Move Us,” attracted a large audience, particularly from the youth demographic. It was held at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, formerly known as the National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
Speaking on “Culture, Heritage and the Creator’s Responsibility,” Sanwo-Olu stressed that the narratives adopted by storytellers significantly influence how societies and institutions are judged, noting that stories are powerful tools capable of building or damaging an image.
According to the governor, Lagos presents a blend of both positive and unsatisfactory narratives, but its defining strength lies in its energy, resilience and creativity.
“One part of the story of Lagos is its unending chaos with heavy vehicular traffic. Another part is the inexhaustible creativity, the burst of activities and the energy of the masses. It’s a mixed bag of positive energy and unsatisfactory events,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu explained that Lagos has forged a unique identity from its extremes, describing the state as a city driven by resilience and an unyielding spirit.
“The identity of Lagos is fresh and original because it is shaped by its sheer strength. The never-give-up spirit of the people is the unique selling point in the story of Lagos. After every achievement is another effort to surpass the level. Lagos is a city that doesn’t stop, and that is the basis of its growth and economic power,” he added.
The governor further noted that the image created by storytellers not only influences how a society is judged but also how its people are perceived, urging creators to be intentional in projecting narratives that promote positive development.
The event was attended by notable personalities, including the Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Mr. Idris Olorunnimbe; Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Arts, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka; Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Tourism, Hon. Idris Aregbe.
Also present was the Olu of Warri Kingdom in Delta State, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, who attended with some of his chiefs.
In his remarks, the monarch lamented the distorted portrayal of African societies by external narratives, noting that such depictions were often aimed at subjugating Africans and undermining their humanity.
Atuwatse III urged Africans to reclaim their narratives by telling stories rooted in their history, culture and lived experiences.
“Countries with good global images are not necessarily perfect societies, but those that project positive stories about their socio-cultural lives,” he said.
The Olu of Warri called on writers and storytellers to create narratives that would inspire future generations and form part of the history they inherit.
“Stories do not entertain nations, they shape them. Those who steward stories do not just preserve culture, they set the direction of history,” the monarch said.
