By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a breathtaking display of skill and audacity, Jaan Roose, a 31-year-old Estonian slacklining maestro, captivated Lagosians on Thursday with his gravity-defying performance on a suspended 66m rope, spanning the distance of 350 meters from Sterling Towers to Onome rig in Marina, Lagos.
Sponsored by Red Bull, Roose, a three-time world champion and record-holder in the sport, showcased the art of slacklining—walking on a rope above the ground—drawing crowds from the Central Business District (CBD). Commuters and residents gathered to witness the spectacle as Roose, accompanied by fellow slackliner Oskar Jussi and their crew, showcased their breathtaking skills against the city skyline.
Estonian Jan Roose with the D-G
LASEMA Dr Oke-Osanyitolu at the Last
floor of Sterling Towers before the
Slacklining event
The event garnered attention from unexpected quarters, with the Director General of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Oluwafemi Oke-Osanyitolu, describing Roose’s performance as audacious and interesting. Emergency response teams, including paramedics and ambulance operators, were on standby to ensure safety during the daring act.
Jussi, Roose’s partner, shared his amazement at experiencing slacklining in Nigeria, emphasizing the uniqueness of the sport in the country. Despite facing challenges setting up the rope due to Marina’s traffic, the team expressed gratitude for the warm reception from Nigerians.
Speaking about the project, Jussi explained that the Red Bull initiative aimed to explore new territories, with Nigeria being a significant part of their journey. The team spent four days in Nigeria, overcoming logistical hurdles and immersing themselves in the local culture.
Despite the awe-inspired reactions from onlookers, opinions on the feasibility of Nigerians embracing slacklining varied. While some, like Mr. Ope Banwo and his daughter, enjoyed the spectacle but doubted local interest, others, such as Mrs. Atinuke Agoro and Mr. Isiak Bolakale, expressed reluctance due to the perceived risks.
As the sun set on this extraordinary event, the slacklining team prepared to depart for Estonia on Friday, leaving Lagos with a lasting memory of a high-flying Estonian conquering the city’s skyline.