Documentary Premiere: "Never Say Die x The Lagos AfroFunk Collective

Never Say Die – 55th Anniversary of Rangers International Football Club

Event Overview

Join us for a historic celebration marking 55 years of Rangers International Football Club, one of Africa’s most iconic teams. From their remarkable victories against Borussia Monchengladbach and Dundee United to their legendary "Never Say Die" spirit, this event will honor the club’s legacy through film, discussions, and live music.

Event Schedule

🎥 Documentary Premiere: "Never Say Die – The Story and History of Rangers International Football Club"

• Directed & Produced by: Ed Keazor
• Synopsis: This documentary tells the inspiring story of how Rangers was founded in 1970, in the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War, by players who had lost everything but refused to give up. The film highlights their rise to dominance in African football, including their historic 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup victory.

🗣️ Post-Screening Panel Discussion

A conversation with African football legends who played a role in the club’s success:

🎙️ Special Guests:

• Emmanuel ‘Irongate’ Okala (Rangers/Green Eagles - African Footballer of the Year 1977; African Championship Gold Medallist 1980) – Joining via Zoom.
• Charles ‘Hurricane’ Okonkwo (Rangers/Super Eagles star) – Appearing in person.

This session will reflect on the club’s incredible history, its impact on Nigerian football, and personal stories from the players who embodied the "Never Say Die" spirit.

🎶 Live Music: The Lagos AfroFunk Collective – "The Waterside Session"

A celebration of Nigerian Highlife, Afrobeat, AfroFunk, and Afro-Jazz from 1958-1988, featuring a stellar lineup of musicians who have performed with legendary African and international artists.

🎵 Featured Musicians:

• Ayo Odia – Tenor Saxophone (Ex-Fela Kuti, Osibisa, Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra, Jungle Brown, Wanlov Da Kubolo)
• Phil Dawson – Guitar (Ex-Tony Allen, Hugh Masekela, Dele Sosimi, Orlando Julius, Yaba Funk, Highlife Allstars)
• Mike Idowu – Bass (Ex-Lagbaja, Miatta Fahnbulleh, Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra, Ikenga, Awale)
• Jose Joyette – Drums (Ex-Craig David, Miatta Fahnbulleh, Pat Thomas, Sister Sledge, De La Soul, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra)
• Ed Keazor – Vocals/Percussion (Ex-The Funkees, Wrinkar Experience, Jimi Solanke, Dele Sosimi Afrobeat Orchestra)

This electrifying performance will pay tribute to the golden era of African music, bringing together a mix of Afrobeat, Highlife, and Afro-Jazz to close the night on a high note.

Come and celebrate 55 years of football excellence, resilience, and cultural legacy with us!