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Obafunwa David Abimbola
Born1982
Lagos, Nigeria
NationalityNigerian
Occupation(s)Creative Consultant, Artistic Director, Theatre Arts Administrator, Choreographer
Years active2000–present

Obafunwa David Abimbola, also known as Bimbo Obafunwa, is a Nigerian creative consultant, artistic director, and choreographer. He is known for his efforts in promoting the performing arts in Nigeria and for fostering the development of young talent in the creative industries. He is the founder of the Dancedeal Training Foundation, which has trained over 10,000 youths and produced graduates who have become lecturers, choreographers, and winners of major international competitions.[1] [2]

Early Life and Education

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Obafunwa was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and completed his education at Greensprings School, St. Gregory’s College, and the University of Ibadan, where he studied microbiology. It was during his university years that he discovered a passion for dance, eventually pursuing a career in the arts.[1]

Career

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Dancedeal Training Foundation

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In 2009, Obafunwa established the Dancedeal Training Foundation as a platform to nurture young talent and redefine perceptions of dance as a professional career. The foundation offers a structured 24-month program in dance, personal development, and artistic training. Graduates of the program have succeeded in fields such as education, choreography, and creative arts globally.[1] [2]

Notable alumni include:

  • Gloria Ugwarelojo Biachi, who has contributed to theatre and television internationally through her association with the Pina Bausch Foundation.[3]
  • Oyinkansola Olabanke Goriola, a PhD student at Northwestern University recognized for her research on colorism in Nigerian dance and contributions to the Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project. Goriola has received fellowships, including the Hans E. Panofsky Pre-dissertation Research Award and the Black Metropolis Graduate Assistantship.[4]

Forward Dance Championship

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In partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Obafunwa launched the Forward Dance Championship to promote arts education in Lagos public schools. The competition’s second season featured 120 schools across six educational districts, providing performance spaces and uncovering new talent.[5]

Corporate Dance World and Entertainment

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Obafunwa is the creative director of Corporate Dance World and Entertainment (CDW&E), which focuses on using dance as a professional tool. Through this platform, he organizes events such as the Dancerapy Fitness Marathon.[6]

Dancerapy Fitness Marathon

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The Dancerapy Fitness Marathon is an annual wellness event that promotes physical and mental health through dance. It focuses on cardiovascular fitness, stress relief, and cognitive benefits such as Alzheimer’s prevention and creativity enhancement.[7]

Legacy and Vision

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Bimbo Obafunwa aims to use the performing arts to empower Nigerian youths. Through initiatives like the Dancedeal Training Foundation and the Forward Dance Championship, he provides mentorship, training, and opportunities to aspiring dancers. He continues to advocate for dance as an essential tool for education, culture, and professional development.[2] [8]

References

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