Program
Drumming and dance workshops will be conducted by the Iyaloja Heritage Drum and Dance Association of Erin Osun which is comprised of members of the Iyaloja clan of traditional drummers - they number approximately 200 people, to which Akeems family belongs.  Classes will be organized daily at two hourly stretches, in the morning and evening.  There will be classes arranged in drumming, dancing, and song.  There will be time allowed for extra curricular activities.

Location
Most of the workshops will be conducted in the peaceful village environment of Erin Osun and Ofatedo.  Participants may bring their own drums or arrange to purchase one in Nigeria.  Other activities including night life will take place in the larger city of Oshogbo, which is the largest city of Osun state and situated inland in the southwest of Nigeria, directly north of Lagos.  Oshogbo lies between the villages of  Erin Osun and Ofatedo.  It is considered the cultural capital of the Yoruba tribe which is the most populous of the three main tribes found in Nigeria.  Yoruba is the language of the people in this part of Nigeria, though English is commonly known and remains the language of government.  Here is located the internationally known Nike Center for the Arts.  Many of the artists who have trained there are known in Santa Fe for their magnificent batiks and other crafts.  There will be opportunities for guests to try their skill at batik making, ceramics, wood carving, sculpture, among the vast array of arts in progress there.

Accommodations
Visitors will be accommodated in the modern house that Akeems family has built outside Oshogbo in the village of Ofatedo.   The house includes electricity and running water.  Beds will be provided, but guests should bring their own linen.  Windows are fitted with wire screens.  Food will be included in the accommodation.  The staple diet consists of yam, rice, beans, and chile stew.  Vegetables and fruits are available and arrangements can be made for vegetarians.  Bottled water will be available at all times.

Travel
We are planning to leave in Augest of 2007.  This should be an excellent time to find bargain travel rates.  Guests may plan to stay for part of the month, the whole month, or even longer.  Individual  schedules should be arranged  with Akeem.  We shall arrange for group rates if participants are able to travel at the same time.  Wings Travel has provided excellent rates and service in the past.  We shall leave Albuquerque and fly to Lagos where we shall be met by members of the Iyaloja Association and transported to Ofatedo via van.

Visas
After an initial deposit indicating positive intention to participate, Iyaloja Association will write and sign visa applications which must then be sent to the Nigerian embassy in New York together with your passports.  The embassy will stamp the passports and return them via pre-paid registered mail.  Sufficient time must be allowed for this process, at least 4 weeks before travel.

Vaccinations
It is essential to be vaccinated for yellow fever for entry into Nigeria, and a record of the vaccination should be entered into an official  Certificate of Vaccination.  It is recommended that travelers consult their own physicians or the travel clinics available through health organizations for further information regarding immunization and other health precautions for travel to Nigeria.

Climate
At this time of the year, the climate is warm, rainy and humid.  Light clothing is recommended.  A light jacket may be useful for evening.  Long skirts or pants are suggested for evenings to protect from mosquitos.

What to Bring
Flashlight (this will come in handy, often!)
Insect Repellent
Toilet paper
Towel
First aid kit
Sheets for bedding
Tape (for feet and hands)
Sunscreen
Soap

Currency
The local currency is Naira.  The current exchange rate is approximately 120 Naira per US dollar and, is of course, subject to change.  It is advisable to take cash and/or travelers checks, though cash is preferable.   There are no ATM machines in Nigeria, and although credit cards may be accepted in Lagos, in other areas of Nigeria, it is a cash economy.

Cost
There will be a registration fee of $50.00 payable by check to Akeem Ayanniyi, or the which must be paid by May  to ensure a place in this tour.  Cost will be structured in two tiers:  the full program including workshops, accommodations, food, travel within Nigeria and entertainment will be $1500.00.  For those not interested in workshops, but including all of the other options listed above, the cost will be $850.00.  These prices do not include air fare which should be individually negotiated.  Full payment should be made to Akeem before May 15th  of  2007. Further Information / Questions. Akeem Ayanniyi
Akeem Ayanniyi
Agalu
Musical Director
1631 Calle Sotero, Santa fe, N.M, 87507.
Phone: 505 920-4656
Email: akeemayanniyi@aol.com