Amazed by exhibition of the 1851 Agidingbi chess board game, the Erelu of Lagos, Chief Abiola Dosumu has confessed that the exhibition has resurrected Lagos’s history.
Speaking at the event, he said, “I must congratulate the organisers for a very original exhibition. At the end of the day, it is teaching us about the history of Lagos. It is beautifully depicted in such a unique way. This brings memories about what actually happened in Lagos years ago. Normally, a game of chess tells the story of the foreigners but this is very authentic. It’s telling the struggles of our own people and how they survived the soul of our community. Our ancestors are celebrated here. It celebrates their fortitude and prowess in keeping the clan firm. This is a wonderful achievement.”
Olúdamólá Adebowale, the creative director, 1851 Agidingbi chess game noted that the idea behind the curation of the Lagos ingenious chess game was to document one of the Lagos war stories. The 1851 Agidingbi chess board is Nigeria’s first ever variant of chess game.
During a private exhibition at the Red Door gallery in Lagos, participants were taken on an excursion into the historical narrative of the 1851 bombardment of Lagos by the British naval forces. The Lagos themed chess game, 1851 Agidingbi, carefully infuses Lagos’ history and culture with a cutting-edge gaming technology to provide a unique gaming experience.
According to the curator, the idea was to preserve Lagos’ history using technology and digital assets.
“What we have done with 1851 Adidingbi is to preserve Lagos history in a new bottle, and we are ready to share it with the rest of the world.
“The chess game which is made from wood and acrylic materials is indigenous to the mind of every Lagosian. The name ‘Agidingbi’ is onomatopoeia for the sounds of the cannon guns fired by the British forces. According to history, these sounds echoed as far as Badagry and Lagos mainland.
“The game emerged in 2023, the first of many to come, as we aim to establish it as a collector’s item. This board not only showcases the characters but also the intricate design that underpins it.
“The concept of the 1851 Agidingbi chess was conceived in 2018, but its development commenced during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. In 2021, we launched the chess game app to commemorate the 170th historical memorial of the 1851 bombardment of Lagos.
“Now, we stand before you, ready to unveil the first variant of the chess game board. This is a dream realised, made possible by the dedication of many hands. This is a gift to Lagos”, he added.
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