On July 3, 2018, French President, Emmanuel Macron, made a notable visit to a nightclub in Lagos founded by the iconic Nigerian Afrobeat legend, Fela Kuti.
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Known for its vibrant music, lively dancers, and the aroma of marijuana, the New Afrika Shrine welcomed Macron after his official engagements with then-President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja earlier that day, kicking off a two-day visit to Nigeria.
During his time at the New Afrika Shrine, managed by Fela Kuti’s sons, Femi and Seun, Macron enjoyed a mix of classic Fela tunes, modern music performances, and a fashion show. Accompanied by then Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State, some top Nigerian celebrities, and French officials, his presence added a unique vibe to the venue, where he openly acknowledged Nigeria’s significance in African culture.
Macron’s visit to Nigeria held personal significance as well, bringing back memories of his earlier stint as an intern at the French embassy in Abuja in 2002. Reflecting on his past visits to the legendary Lagos club, Macron humorously remarked, “I can’t divulge everything that happened when I used to come to the Shrine – because what happens at the Shrine stays at the Shrine.”
Other key events on this day
1. President of Egypt Mohamed Morsi was deposed by the military in a coup d’état while the President of the Supreme Constitutional Court, Adly Mansour, was appointed interim President – 2013
3. Mohammed V, sultan of Turkey, died – 1918
4. Samuel de Champlain founded the city of Quebec in Canada – 1608
5. George Washington surrendered to the French, Fort Necessity during 7 Years’ War – 1754
6. Idaho became 43rd state – 1890
7. 252,288 people passed through Grand Central Station, NYC – 1947
8. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was arrested on corruption charges – 2018
9. Atlético Madrid signed Portugal forward Joao Felix for €126m (£113m) from Benfica in the fifth most expensive transfer in football history – 2019.
