Renowned American breakdance experts Macca Malik and Jacob “Kujo” Lyons embarked on an unforgettable journey to Nigeria from May 11 to 18.
This exciting visit was made possible through the U.S. Department of State’s Sports Envoy Program, showcasing the power of dance and sports diplomacy.
Throughout their weeklong program in Abuja and Lagos, Malik and Lyons collaborated with various partners to deliver an impactful experience. The U.S. State Department’s Sports Diplomacy Division and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, in partnership with the esteemed FAME Foundation, led by Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, a U.S. government exchange alumna, played crucial roles in organizing this incredible initiative.
In Abuja, the U.S. Sports Envoys engaged with the Nigerian Olympic Committee, shining a spotlight on breaking’s newfound global status as an Olympic sport. They emphasized the exceptional opportunities it presents for Nigerian breakers. Moreover, the envoys demonstrated the U.S. government’s commitment to Nigerian youth by visiting the School for the Deaf in Kuje. There, they shared their personal stories of dedication, leadership, and teamwork, inspiring students to form a Breakdance Club. This visit also reinforced the belief that “there is ability in disability” and showcased the envoys’ support for sports inclusion. As part of their outreach, they shared best practices for managing sports for people with disabilities. The envoys also led workshops and masterclasses at the renowned Krump Dance Studio, where breakers from Northern Nigeria gained valuable insights on preparing for Olympic competitions and honing their techniques.
In Lagos, the Sports Envoys conducted masterclasses at the Nation Dance Studio, catering to both emerging and established breakers. They generously shared invaluable tips on how to prepare for breaking competitions, fostering growth and excellence within the Nigerian breaking community. Additionally, they participated in an American Spaces Employability Webinar, engaging with breaking enthusiasts gathered at the network of 27 American Spaces in Nigeria. This webinar served as a platform for the envoys to discuss how participants can transform their passion for breaking and other artistic forms of expression into fulfilling careers. It also highlighted the role of sports in developing self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
To culminate their visit to Nigeria, the U.S. Sports Envoys, alongside their workshop participants, treated audiences in Abuja and Lagos to captivating public performances. These mesmerizing displays of artistic brilliance showcased breathtaking choreography and compelling narratives.
Acting U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Joseph Zadrozny expressed his appreciation for the Sports Envoy program, emphasizing its role in promoting cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and community enrichment through the universal language of dance and sports. Zadrozny highlighted the importance of the lessons shared by the Sports Envoys, including communication, teamwork, resilience, inclusion, and conflict resolution. These qualities are essential for leadership development, community building, equality, and peace.
The Sports Envoys’ unwavering passion for breaking and their enthusiasm for sharing knowledge with emerging and established breakers, coupled with their willingness to embrace and learn from different cultures, garnered tremendous appreciation from the Nigerian breaking community and sports and cultural leaders. This visit has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s dance scene, fostering a deeper connection between the United States and Nigeria through the power of dance and sports.