By Precious D Freeman
The president of the Oliver Gibson Annual Global Gospel Musical Convention, has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a 2,500-seating performance art center in Liberia.
This groundbreaking project, is set to commence in November 2025, is estimated to cost US$ 2 million and aimed at being a landmark in the country’s cultural landscape.
Samuel Deputie, a Liberian-based in Minnesota, USA, explained that the performance art center will be the first of its kind in Liberia and embodies the convention’s vision of fostering artistic and cultural development.
The facility will have a fellowship hall, reception hall, gymnasium, swimming pool and integrated radio and television stations, making it a versatile venue for various events and activities.
There will also be three-bedroom apartments build at the back of the center to accommodate visitors.
“Giving back to the country is a very awesome thing to do,” Deputie remarked, emphasizing the project’s potential impact on local communities.
“The initiative is entirely self-funded by convention members, with each participant contributing US$1,000 towards the building project during the upcoming convention.
“We are a 501C3 organization, which allows us to raise funds among ourselves. We want this to be a Liberian-owned business, so we awarded the contract to Liberian-based Infinity Engineering,” Deputie disclosed.
Highlighting the project’s phased approach, Deputie expressed a commitment to not only breaking ground but also ensuring steady construction progress.
The enthusiastic response from villagers in Todee, who welcomed the project for the development and opportunities it will bring, further fuels this commitment.
“We are counting on the government of Liberia to support this initiative, as it is for the betterment of our country. We have already engaged Senator Darius Dillon to discuss land allocation,” Deputie added.
The Oliver Gibson Annual Global Gospel Musical Convention, consisting of Liberian Gospel Musicians based in America, has established branches in Ghana, Canada, Australia, and Sierra Leone.
The group has significantly contributed to the development of Gospel music worldwide, and this new project in Liberia marks another milestone in their mission.
This performance art center is poised to become a beacon of cultural enrichment and community development in Liberia, reflecting the convention’s enduring legacy and commitment to positive change.
