Nigeria launches “Focus: Nigeria Spotlight” at Abu Dhabi Art 2025, featuring seven galleries and pioneering artists, creating pathways for global collectors, partnerships, and cultural tourism

Nigeria has unveiled its largest international art presentation to date at Abu Dhabi Art 2025, positioning the nation’s galleries and artists for unprecedented access to global collectors, cultural partnerships, and art tourism opportunities.

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The “Focus: Nigeria Spotlight” brings seven leading Nigerian galleries—including kò Art Space, SOTO Gallery, O’DA Gallery, AMG Projects, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, and Ishara Gallery—to one of the world’s premier art fairs.

The showcase, running through November 23, features artists spanning the historic Osogbo School to contemporary practitioners working in painting, sculpture, installation, and mixed media, exploring themes of identity, politics, and cultural place.

Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, said, “Our artists reflect who we are as a nation.

This collaboration with Abu Dhabi places Nigerian art at the centre of international cultural conversations and strengthens Nigeria’s creative economy.”

The initiative, part of the Nigeria Everywhere programme under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, was spearheaded by Tola Akerele, CEO/GM of the National Theatre of Nigeria.

It aims to provide Nigerian galleries direct access to international collectors, curators, and cultural institutions, creating pathways for career growth and global recognition.

Osahon Okunbo, whose foundation is the showcase’s main sponsor, emphasised the long-term benefits: “This is about building bridges for Nigerian artists to reach the world.

We’re opening doors for collaborations, institutional partnerships, and relationships that strengthen the entire creative economy.”

Featured artists include Samuel Nnorom, known for sculptures incorporating Ankara wax fabric; Bara Sketchbook, whose mixed-media works explore psychological depth; and Rufus Ogundele, who fuses European styles with Yoruba visual culture.

Nigeria’s participation extends beyond Abu Dhabi Art, including National Theatre presentations and a site-specific installation in Al Ain.

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Delegates are engaging with VIP previews, collectors, and cultural dialogues throughout the event, showcasing Nigeria as a vibrant hub for art and creativity.