Guild Of Nigerian Dancers Launch Historic Plan To Transform Culture, Livelihoods

The Nigerian dance community is stepping into a new era of professionalisation and empowerment. The Guild of Nigerian Dancers (GOND), led by National President Segun Adefila, unveiled a sweeping new vision focused on economic stability, professional development, and unity across genres.

In a statement released by the national president ahead of the press conference billed to hold on Monday, November 28 at the J. Randle Centre for Yòrùbá Culture and History 2025, Adefila declared that the Guild is committed to ensuring dancers “not only survive but thrive through the arts.”

Acknowledging that the need for sustainable livelihoods is the most pressing challenge facing dancers, the GOND announced an aggressive plan to open doors for job creation.

“Dance, in all its forms, is the voice of our people… It is essential that we create avenues that empower our members economically,” Adefila stated.

To elevate the craft to a globally competitive level, the GOND is introducing structured and innovative professional development programs. These initiatives will focus on continuous skill enhancement, training, and mentorship through collaborations with seasoned professionals, academies, and international partners.

The goal is to equip dancers not only with artistic skills but also with the business tools needed to navigate the evolving creative industry.

The Guild’s vision emphasises unity across the country’s rich dance diversity—from traditional indigenous forms to modern Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, and ballet. GOND will actively organise cultural exchange programs, festivals, and events aimed at breaking down barriers and encouraging cross-collaboration between different styles.

Furthermore, the Guild is prioritising the welfare and well-being of its members. Recognising the physical and emotional toll of the profession, GOND will introduce welfare packages offering support, including access to medical insurance, fitness programs, wellness workshops, and career counselling.

Adefila further issued a powerful call to action: “Let us remember that no matter the style we represent… dance is a universal language, and through it, we are one.”

The launch signals GOND’s commitment to building a credible, supported, and prosperous future for dancers across Nigeria.