Nigeria: Coca Cola Christmas Tree Thrills Lagosians
Kasie Abone
23 December 2009
Coca Cola Christmas tree which was lit up by the wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola has become a beehive of activities since the tree, the tallest in Africa took up its position at National Arts Theatre premises located at Orile Iganmu area of Lagos State. The light which was part of Coca-Cola Christmas marketing campaign is coming up three consecutive years.
According to the marketing director of the number one global brand, Mr. Austin Ufomba, Coke is using the occasion of the Christmas to bring happiness to families during the yuletide. "Coke brand is a unifying factor; it is linked with refreshment, joy which make the season complete. It is about connecting consumers to the season.
The colourful tree lighting ceremony was attended by dignitaries from government and business as well as by Nollywood and music stars including wife of the Lagos State governor, USA Consular General, Ms Donna Blaire, among many other dignitaries.
This is in pursuance of the resolve to excite Nigerians and create a memorable festive season this year. As part of the company's revolutionary year end campaign, the world's largest and favourite non-alcoholic beverage maker over the lit up Lagos and indeed the whole of the country with a gigantic red coloured Christmas tree, the tallest on the entire African continent.
Coca-Cola's 30-meter high Christmas tree weighs 15 tons. It is mounted on a massive platform 2.5 meters high and 12.5 meters in diameter, which gives the tree an overall height that reaches more than 100 feet into the sky, nearly as tall as a 12 storey building. The splendid landmark stands imposingly on the large grounds of the iconic National Arts Theatre, the nation's symbol of cultural excellence. The Coca-Cola tree is a refreshing addition to the Lagos skyline and will captivate national and international attention this festive season and after.
The magnificent Coca-Cola Christmas tree spreads out more than a thousand branches that are illuminated with 40,200 bulbs and light-emitting diodes and adorned with over 7,500 brilliant ornaments. The diodes provide permanent sparkles, the brilliance of which is accentuated by the light bulbs. At night, the Coca-Cola tree is like spectacular fireworks that never fizzle out. It will be open to public viewing between 10.00am and 5.00pm daily until January.
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