The Director General of the National Gallery of Art (NGA) Mr Ahmed Sodangi, has highlighted that creativity and innovation have the power to shape every sphere of human existence by providing ideas that address multifaceted global challenges.
Sodangi said this at an event organised by the organisation in collaboration with Schools of Creativity to commemorate the 2026 World Creativity and Innovation Day in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital.
He also explained that the exhibition, specially curated to commemorate the day, was aimed at reminding artists, innovators and art enthusiasts of the significant role creativity and innovation play in human existence.
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“Today’s exhibition is part of a global celebration observed every April 21 to showcase how art and science intersect to bring vibrancy to the world around us. The artworks on display are drawn from Nigeria’s treasured National Gallery collection and were produced by seasoned creative minds from across the country.
“Every masterpiece began as an idea, evolving through sketches and experimentation before becoming the remarkable pieces before us,” he emphasised.
According to him, exhibitions remain a key tradition of the NGA, serving as platforms that showcase the strength and resilience of the Nigerian spirit while highlighting the freshness innovation brings when combined with creative ingenuity.
“Through this exhibition, we demonstrate to the public that creativity is a vital tool for solving complex problems. Exhibitions help maintain connections with the public, and the NGA has continued to push creative boundaries by fostering meaningful engagement and promoting art appreciation within the cultural space, Sodangi highlighted.
“The multidisciplinary approach encouraged by today’s celebration widens participation and makes the event more impactful,” he added.
Also speaking, the Country Director of the Integrated Women and Youths Empowerment Centre (IWAYEC), Mrs Afiniki Mangzha, said the theme underscored that creativity was not only about ideas.
Mangzha said creativity was about transforming ideas into solutions that drive sustainable development and inclusive growth.
According to her, creativity has become essential in addressing modern challenges.
“It is how we respond to challenges, rebuild communities and create opportunities where none existed. In my work at IWAYEC Foundation, I have witnessed how simple creative ideas transform lives, helping young girls gain confidence through digital innovation, supporting women to build sustainable livelihoods through climate-smart agriculture.
“Also, i have witnessed how enabling youths and persons with disabilities contribute to peace and economic development,” She explained.
Mangzha stressed that creativity must be inclusive, particularly in reaching rural communities affected by conflict and individuals excluded from opportunities.
“Nigeria possesses talent, resilience and innovative capacity. We must invest in people, create opportunities and collaborate to unlock this potential,” Mangzha stated.
She urged stakeholders to harness creativity for national progress by translating ideas into action and building a future that leaves no one behind.
African Advisory Board Member of the United Nations World Creativity and Innovation Day, Mr Muyiwa Fashola said the celebration had been held annually since 2001.
Fashola emphasised the importance of collaboration and connection among young people to foster creativity and innovation.
“A country cannot achieve development without creative capacity. The workforce must be creative and innovative to enhance productivity, which ultimately drives economic growth,” he noted.
The event, themed “Power of Strategy,” marked the United Nations World Creativity and Innovation Day, observed annually on April 21 to raise awareness of the role of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development.
