Nigeria has unveiled its most ambitious international art showcase at Abu Dhabi Art 2025, marking a major milestone for the nation’s creative sector.
This move opens new doors for Nigerian galleries and artists, offering unpalralleled exposure to global collectors, cultural collaborations, and expanded opportunities in art tourism.
The General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Theatre, Mrs. Tola Akerele, disclosed this in a statement released 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 said.
Akerele noted that the exhibition, which continues until Nov. 23, includes presentations from Kò Art Space, SOTO Gallery, O’DA Gallery, AMG Projects, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, and Ishara Gallery.
READ ALSO: President Tinubu Pledges Revival Of Arts, Culture Economy
Expo Unveils Digital Tracker for African Tourism, Creative Sector
She added that the featured artists span generations from the iconic Osogbo School to contemporary creatives exploring painting, sculpture, installation, and mixed-media art forms. “Their works address identity, politics, and place, fusing cultural symbols with contemporary forms.
“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,” Akerele said.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, said that “artists reflect who we are as a nation.
“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 said 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. “It arrives as Nigeria positions its creative sector as an economic driver under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda; part of the broader Nigeria Everywhere initiative aimed at increasing global visibility for Nigerian creativity,” she said.
Osahon Okunbo, whose foundation is the main sponsor of the showcase, said: “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.”
NAN/Oluchi