By 
Innovative initiative uses AI to revive Nigerian myths, history, and legends for the digital generation.
In a bold step towards cultural preservation and digital innovation, 9mobile has launched Echoes, an AI-powered storytelling platform designed to bring Nigeria’s history, myths, and true events to life.
RELATED: 9Mobile undergoes major ownership and leadership overhaul as LH Telecommunication invests
The initiative seeks to reconnect Nigerian youths with their rich cultural heritage, ensuring that indigenous stories remain relevant in today’s fast-paced digital world.
For centuries, storytelling has been the lifeblood of Nigerian culture, passing down values, traditions, and historical accounts through oral narratives. However, the dominance of modern entertainment and media trends has led to a decline in indigenous storytelling.
With Echoes, 9mobile is leveraging Artificial Intelligence to reimagine and retell these stories in engaging digital formats, making them accessible on platforms young Nigerians already use, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (Twitter).
Echoes: Rewriting the Narrative with AI
Kenechukwu Okonkwo, Director of Marketing at 9mobile, speaking at the launch in Lagos, described Echoes as a groundbreaking effort to preserve and promote Nigerian history.
“We curated stories that matter to our audience—stories of resilience, ambition, culture, and everyday life, deeply rooted in Nigeria’s history,” Okonkwo stated.
The first edition of Echoes features iconic locations such as:
- Kajuru Castle – The legendary medieval-style castle in Kaduna.
- Idanre Hills – A UNESCO-recognized site rich in myths and history.
- Ogbunike Cave – An ancient spiritual and historical landmark in Anambra.
Later editions will explore historical figures and pivotal events, including:
- King Eyo Honesty II – The influential Efik monarch and trading leader.
- Igbo Landing – The legendary 19th-century resistance by enslaved Igbo captives.
“As a proudly Nigerian brand, we were deliberate about sharing rich Nigerian stories—capturing facts, myths, and true events that form the fabric of our identity. Many of these stories have been forgotten or lost over time. With Echoes, we are stepping away from Eurocentric narratives to celebrate Nigerian heritage, told by Nigerians, for Nigerians,” Okonkwo emphasized.
How Echoes Works: AI Meets Cultural Storytelling
Each Echoes story undergoes:
- Meticulous Research – Ensuring historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity.
- AI-Assisted Scripting – Crafting compelling narratives using artificial intelligence.
- High-Quality Editing – Transforming scripts into engaging digital content.
- Multi-Platform Distribution – Shared as YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, Facebook Stories, TikTok Clips, and X (Twitter) posts.
Unlike many digital platforms that restrict content, 9mobile ensures free access to Echoes, removing data barriers and making it widely available to Nigerians.
“We prioritized accuracy and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that each narrative remained a true representation of historical accounts. Additionally, there was no data gatekeeping—audiences can access these stories without restrictions,” Okonkwo stated.
9mobile CEO: Echoes Reinforces Innovation Leadership
Speaking on the initiative’s impact, Obafemi Banigbe, Chief Executive Officer of 9mobile, expressed pride in leading AI-driven storytelling in Nigeria.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition, which reaffirms our commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. Echoes is a game-changer in the telecom industry, and we take pride in leading AI-driven innovation in Nigeria.”
By merging technology with tradition, Echoes positions 9mobile as a leader in digital storytelling, ensuring that Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy remains alive for future generations.
The Future of African Storytelling is Digital
With Echoes, 9mobile is revolutionizing storytelling—preserving Nigeria’s past through cutting-edge AI technology and engaging digital content.
This initiative ensures that young Nigerians remain connected to their roots. At the same time, it is showcasing Nigeria’s rich history, myths, and cultural icons to a global audience.
