The U.S. Mission in Nigeria is celebrating a successful U.S. Arts Envoy visit by Pipeline Vocal Project to Lagos and Abuja to strengthen the country’s creative sector.
According to a statement issued by the Mission, the envoy hailed from Alaska and were known for their genre-bending vocal arrangements and high-energy performances.
While in Nigeria, the award-winning American vocal trio led masterclasses, mentored emerging artists, and performed live alongside Nigerian students and emerging vocal talents.
The trio hosted masterclasses in Lagos. In these sessions, they engaged with students from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) and led interactive vocal jams for emerging artists at Ogidi Studios, providing hands-on workshops and guidance for aspiring vocalists.
These events concluded in a live concert at Terra Kulture, uniting musical talent and creativity in an unforgettable performance. U.S. Consul General, Rick Swart noted that their visit was an inspiration to the new generation of Nigerian artists:
“Pipeline Vocal Project’s visit to Nigeria has been an outstanding representation of American musical excellence, with their mentorship, collaboration, and performances inspiring a new generation of Nigerian artists.
“We are proud that this concert sits within our broader portfolio of artist exchanges that connect U.S. and Nigerian creatives. These people-to-people links complement the U.S. Mission’s efforts to broaden economic opportunity, deter illegal migration, and make both our countries stronger”, he said.
In Abuja, the musical trio led vocal masterclasses at Abba Music Studio (AMS), teaching a wide range of students on beginning, intermediate, and advanced vocal techniques. Their visit culminated in a grand showcase concert featuring Pipeline Vocal Project performing alongside emerging vocal talents including Oiza x Meyi, Jerell Ebuka, and Yakubu Worship.
On his part, U.S. Embassy Public Diplomacy Counselor, Lee McManis stated: “…We celebrate music’s unique ability to connect people, transcend borders, and foster mutual understanding. This event is part of our ongoing effort to build stronger ties between the creative industries in the United States and Nigeria. We’ve seen firsthand how Nigerian artists are influencing the U.S. music scene, and vice versa.”
Sharing her experience, the founder of Pipeline Vocal Project, Lisa Hawkins commented, “Our time in Lagos and Abuja has been nothing short of inspiring. We have toured to over 12 countries, but Nigeria stands out. You can feel the incredible drive and creativity that thrives here. From our masterclasses with students and music jams to our two concerts in Lagos and Abuja, we have seen how music can strengthen cultural ties between the United States and Nigeria, creating space for meaningful collaboration.”
This visit underscores the U.S. Mission’s ongoing commitment to commercial diplomacy by showcasing Nigeria’s creative industries to the U.S. music and arts, recognizing its power to drive mutual prosperity for both countries.
