Bolanle Austen-Peters, the founder of Terra Kulture and award-winning filmmaker has been crowned the Erelu of Culture by the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal.
The title was awarded in recognition of her exceptional contributions to youth development and her efforts to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
Austen-Peters is a respected figure in the Nigerian creative industry and has, over the years, trained over 40,000 young individuals through her creative academy, which operates in Lagos, Ogun, and Kano States.
Through her production company, BAP Productions, she has produced acclaimed films and stage plays such as ’93 Days’ ‘The Bling Lagosians’, ‘FELA and the Kalakuta Queens’, and ‘Death and the King’s Horseman’.These productions have enjoyed international tours and participation in various festivals.
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“This honor is especially meaningful because it comes from a kingdom that has allowed my business to thrive for over 21 years,” she said after receiving the title.
“But what stood out the most was witnessing the powerful blend of faith, culture, and business—proof of our strength in diversity.”
The conferment ceremony, held recently, resembled a modern award ceremony. The Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal, announced the achievements of the honorees as they arrived wearing symbolic caps and beads to receive prayers and blessings in a dignified yet contemporary setting.
The prestigious event was attended by dignitaries, friends, and foreign diplomats, including the American, British, and German Consul Generals, who praised the seamless blend of tradition and modernity.
Austen-Peters, who was born into royalty and is the daughter of Afe Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University, described the Erelu title as the highest honor a woman can receive in Yoruba society, aside from being a princess.
Expressing her gratitude to Oba Lawal, the royal household, and her supporters over the years, she stated, “There’s still so much work to be done. I pray for the grace and strength to continue building, inspiring, and making Nigeria proud.”
