Comic conventions, those bustling hubs of creativity, have always been a staple in the calendars of enthusiasts worldwide. From San Diego to Tokyo, these events celebrate the diverse universe of comics, bringing together fans, creators, and publishers under one roof. And guess what? Africa has joined this global fiesta, showcasing its rich tapestry of creativity. Among the most prominent on the continent is the Lagos ComicCon, an annual extravaganza held in Nigeria. This year, on the 23rd of September, Lagos ComicCon 2023 dazzled attendees with its vibrant energy and enthusiastic participants.
African Comics Take Center Stage
In the heart of Lagos, the ComicCon unfolded with a unique blend of colour, imagination, and culture. The event was a testament to the growing influence of African comics. Zebra Comics, a digital comic book publisher originating from Cameroon in 2016, stood out as a beacon of African storytelling. With their mobile app and website, Zebra Comics has been weaving narratives based on African cultures and everyday realities. What sets them apart is their remarkable consistency, releasing new episodes daily, captivating audiences with their fresh and engaging titles such as Wrong Dial, Kawana, Love At First Fight and The Artist. Another industry player who graced the event was Comic Republic which has a wide variety of African comics on their website ranging from everyday superheroes to sorcerers operating in dark realms. Also present was the enigmatic YouNeek Studios who are known for their flagship title Malika™: The Warrior Queen. Another noticeable attendee was Spoof Animation, easily recognizable in their red pullovers, recently released Ajaka: Lost in Rome on YouTube. This epic animated short film tells the story of a powerful ruler who finds himself in Rome fighting for his freedom.
Zebra Comics at Lagos ComicCon
Zebra Comics made its mark at the Lagos ComicCon for the fourth consecutive year. Through their Chief Technology Officer, Mr Fensou Miles, Zebra Comics participated in a lively panel discussion, delving deep into the intricacies of the comic book industry. They looked into the challenges major African comic book publishers have and are facing when it comes to generating revenue from the industry. Their expertise shone brightly during a masterclass presented by the Chief Operations Officer and Head of Creative Writing, Dr Ejob Gaius, on “How to Write a Comic Book Script,” inspiring aspiring writers and artists in the audience.
But that’s not all. Zebra Comics seized the opportunity to connect with their readers, engaging in candid conversations with fans who have been avidly following their comics through the app and website. These interactions proved invaluable, providing insights that will undoubtedly shape their future creations.
In an exciting announcement, Zebra Comics revealed plans to open their platform to third-party creators. This move aims to empower budding artists, enabling them to publish their work on the Zebra Comics app and website. By fostering a community of storytellers, Zebra Comics is nurturing a thriving ecosystem for African comic enthusiasts.
Beyond Comics: A Kaleidoscope of Activities
Lagos ComicCon 2023 was not just about comics; it embraced various geek culture elements. Attendees were treated to exclusive movie excerpts, offering a tantalising glimpse into the world of cinema. Worthy of note was the official reveal of Mikolo, a feature-length family-friendly film produced by Anthill Studios. The event resonated with the echoes of exhilarating video game battles, showcasing the gaming prowess of enthusiasts.
A highlight of the convention was the cosplay competition, where attendees transformed into their favourite characters from comics, movies, and games such as Mortal Kombat and FIFA23. The creativity displayed was awe-inspiring, as participants meticulously crafted their costumes, bringing beloved characters to life. From Marvel superheroes to anime icons, the cosplayers added a vibrant and colourful dimension to the event.
A Growing Industry
The atmosphere at Lagos ComicCon 2023 was nothing short of electric. Enthusiastic cheers filled the air as fans immersed themselves in the various activities. Laughter and friendly banter were commonplace, creating a sense of camaraderie among attendees. The Landmark Event Center buzzed with excitement, showcasing the passion and dedication of the participants.
As the event came to a close, one thing became abundantly clear: the geek culture in Africa is not just alive; it’s thriving. What was once a budding passion has now blossomed into a full-fledged industry. The success of Lagos ComicCon 2023 underscores the immense potential of African comics and the collective enthusiasm of its creators and fans.
With each passing year, the bar is set higher, and the expectations for the next edition of Lagos ComicCon soar. The event has become a melting pot of creativity, a celebration of diverse voices, and a testament to the power of storytelling.
In a world where imagination knows no bounds, Lagos ComicCon stands as a testament to the boundless creativity that Africa has to offer. As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter, one thing is certain: the future of African comics has never looked brighter.
Lagos ComicCon, Zebra Comics and other actors in the African comic book industry will continue to inspire and unite comic enthusiasts, ensuring that the vibrant legacy of African comics lives on.
See you in Lagos next year!
