Abu dhabi: Nigeria has launched its most significant international art presentation at Abu Dhabi Art 2025. This positions the country’s galleries and artists for unprecedented access to global collectors, cultural partnerships, and growth in art tourism.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs Tola Akerele, General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Theatre, emphasized the importance of this initiative in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos. ‘Tagged ‘Focus: Nigeria Spotlight’, it brings seven pioneering Nigerian galleries to one of the world’s premier art fairs, creating pathways for artists to enter international markets and establishing Nigeria as a destination for cultural tourism,’ she stated.
Akerele highlighted that the showcase, which runs till November 23, features prominent galleries including k² Art Space, SOTO Gallery, O’DA Gallery, AMG Projects, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, and Ishara Gallery. The artists’ works encompass a range of styles from the historic Osogbo School to contemporary practices in painting, sculpture, installation, and mixed media.
‘Their works address identity, politics, and place, fusing cultural symbols with contemporary forms,’ Akerele explained. ‘Nigerian galleries now have access to collectors and institutions that can transform careers. We want audiences to leave with an appetite for more Nigerian art. When collectors and cultural leaders see the depth of what Nigerian artists create, they become interested in visiting Nigeria; experiencing the context where this work emerges, and building lasting connections.’
Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, noted the cultural significance of this collaboration. ‘The collaboration with Abu Dhabi places Nigerian art at the center of international cultural conversations. It creates opportunities for our creatives and strengthens Nigeria’s position in the global creative economy,’ she said. Musawa also mentioned that the presentation marked a landmark collaboration between Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, and the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi.
Musawa further explained that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, part of the broader Nigeria Everywhere initiative aimed at increasing global visibility for Nigerian creativity.
Osahon Okunbo, whose foundation is the main sponsor of the showcase, stated, ‘This is about building bridges for Nigerian artists to reach the world. When we create these opportunities, we’re not just selling art. We’re opening doors for collaborations, institutional partnerships, and long-term relationships that benefit our entire creative economy.’
The showcase is co-sponsored by SOTO Gallery with support from the Osahon Okunbo Foundation. It offers Nigerian artists direct engagement with international collectors, curators, and cultural institutions gathered at Abu Dhabi Art. Featured artists include Samuel Nnorom, known for his sculptures incorporating culturally significant Ankara wax fabric; Bara Sketchbook’s mixed-media works; and Rufus Ogundele, whose compositions blend European styles with Yoruba visual culture.