Osahon Okunbo Foundation elevates eight Nigerian galleries at historic art fair
Osahon Okunbo Foundation elevates eight Nigerian galleries at historic art fair
The Osahon Okunbo Foundation (TOOF) served as the official sponsor of the Nigeria Spotlight at the 17th Edition of Abu Dhabi Art 2025, held from November 19–23.
In collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, TOOF supported the participation of eight Nigerian galleries, advancing its mission to champion African creativity on the global stage.
This year’s fair gathered more than 140 galleries from 37 countries — the largest edition in its history and the final before its transition into Frieze Abu Dhabi. The moment is symbolic, as the global platform expands its identity while Nigeria steps forward with renewed cultural visibility.
The Nigeria Spotlight showcased works from kò, SOTO Gallery, O’DA Gallery, AMG Projects, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, Ishara Gallery, and a special project by MADhouse x Tikera Africa. Together, they presented a dynamic range of contemporary Nigerian art, exploring themes of identity, memory, politics, spirituality, and evolving forms of African expression. The selection bridged historic influences, including the Osogbo School, with today’s innovative voices.
For TOOF, the initiative represents a meaningful investment in cultural access, visibility, and representation.
“Art is one of the clearest ways a nation tells the truth about itself,” said Osahon Okunbo, Founder of The Osahon Okunbo Foundation. “Sponsoring the Nigeria Spotlight allows us to support the artists carrying that truth into the world. We want their voices to travel, intersect with new ideas, and take up space confidently — whether in Abu Dhabi, Lagos, or anywhere their work leads them.”
The fair also provided a valuable platform for curators, collectors, institutions, and cultural stakeholders. Through TOOF’s sponsorship, Nigerian galleries broadened market opportunities, expanded international networks, and engaged global audiences at a defining moment for African art.
“Our artists reflect the soul of our nation,” said Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy. “Through this strategic collaboration, we reaffirm Nigeria’s cultural relevance on the world stage.”
TOOF’s support for the Nigeria Spotlight aligns with its broader vision to create pathways for African stories, talent, and innovation to gain global recognition. By investing in platforms like Abu Dhabi Art, the Foundation continues to amplify Nigerian creativity — not as an emerging voice but as a shaping force in contemporary culture.
