AkweyaTV publishes the activities of nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), and other development organisations. We believe culture, art and history play crucial roles in improving the quality of lives of people. We believe that most cultures in Nigeria are collages of cultures.
Akweya TV is a metaphor derived from the Akweya society, which is a whole melting pot of people, cultures and influences.
This, for instance, explains why, for example, there are similarities between Akweya words and the Tiv. The colour white in Akweya is “opupu”, teeth is “anyi”, bag (or pocket) is “ekpa”, and more. In terms of the social organisation: there are direct and observable Idoma, Igede, Igbo and Igala influences. Akweya has clan heads with the title Attah, similar to the Igala’s, and the adulation is Agaba Idu, across Igala, Idoma, Jukun and many others.
Many Igbo communities share ancestry with their neighbours, such Enugu and Onitsha, that have large Igala populations and ancestry, and Abia with Akwa Ibom and Cross River. Much of the places that are Niger and Kogi now descended from a group called the Akpoto, which dispersed into Ebirra, Nupe, Igala, Bassa and other groups.
So our founding ethos at AkweyaTV is to look at these from the metaphorical perspective of how the Akweya society is leading us to a discovery of one huge migrant nation. A nation of people who always trace their ancestry with the expression, “When our forefathers first came and settled here… “, thus making the keen observer ask, “Where did you come from? How much further away in time and space did your migration take place?” These simple questions lead us on journeys far away to the Jukun people in Yakasai, a locality located in Kano State, Nigeria. The Yakasai community has a connection to the Jukun people. There is a mention of the history of Kano and the establishment of Yakasai in relation to Jukun origin, suggesting that some members of the Yakasai community may have Jukun ancestry. The Jukun were said to have migrated from Egypt and then to the Chad Basin where they settled at Ngazargamu alongside the Kanuri people.
These rich histories of interactions buttress that most cultures in Nigeria are blends of cultures.
Our Theory of Change
Akweya TV endeavours to be not just a source of information and entertainment but a transformative force that contributes to the holistic development of the communities it serves. We believe in participation, which is why our motto is: “Including you (in the development conversation).”
1. Narrative Empowerment
Akweya TV aims to empower communities by telling stories that delve into their history, heritage, and culture. By narrating these stories from the perspective of lived experiences, the channel seeks to create a strong connection between the past and the present.
2. Cultural Reflection and Comparison
The channel emphasises the importance of reflecting on cultural narratives and comparing them with contemporary lives. By showcasing how communities have adapted to modern living while preserving their cultural roots, Akweya TV fosters a sense of pride and identity among its audience.
3. Catalyst for Critical Thinking
Akweya TV believes that by presenting stories that encourage critical thinking, it can stimulate a thoughtful examination of the past, present, and future. The channel aspires to be a catalyst for discussions that prompt viewers to question, analyse, and contribute to the ongoing narrative of their community.
4. Innovation and Adaptation
The ultimate goal is to inspire innovation in the community. Through storytelling, Akweya TV aims to encourage viewers to approach the future with creativity and innovative solutions to improve their quality of life. This could involve adapting traditional practices to contemporary challenges or finding novel ways to preserve cultural heritage.
5. Community Pride and Identity
Akweya TV believes that fostering a sense of pride in one’s cultural heritage is essential for community well-being. By showcasing stories that celebrate the uniqueness of each community, the channel strives to contribute to the development of a strong and positive community identity.
6. Education and Awareness
The channel sees itself as an educational platform, enlightening viewers about their own history and culture. Through this process, Akweya TV aims to increase awareness among the community members, ensuring that they are well-informed about their heritage and its relevance in the contemporary context.
7. Social Impact and Positive Change
The overarching impact expected from Akweya TV’s Theory of Change is the facilitation of positive change within the community. This could manifest in improved social cohesion, increased community engagement, and the development of innovative solutions to address challenges, ultimately leading to an enhanced quality of life for the people.
Follow the AkweyaTV channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7m7dvJuyA7h5XMc22i
