A Landmark Art Exhibition in Lagos
Nigeria is set to witness a significant cultural event as some of the country’s most influential cultural, traditional, and political figures are expected to gather in Lagos for a landmark art exhibition. This special event will celebrate the work of renowned artist Bruce Onobrakpeya, a key figure in Nigerian modern art.
Among the notable attendees are Nobel laureate Prof Wole Soyinka, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, and former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel. Prominent traditional rulers, including the Oniru of Iruland, the Onigeruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, the Onilado of Ilado and Inagbe, and Oba Bashir Abisoye Odesanya, the Oloto of Otto, Ido, and the Mainland Kingdom of Lagos State, are also expected to attend.
The Gregorian Art Exhibition
The exhibition, titled “The Gregorian Art Exhibition,” is being organized by the St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association and curated by Mudiare Onobrakpeya. It will be held at Jubilee Hall, St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos, from April 25 to April 27, 2026.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for April 25 at 11:30 a.m. and will be strictly by invitation. According to the organizers, the grand opening is reserved for VIP viewing. Members of the public will have access starting at 2:00 p.m. on the same day after the official opening. The exhibition will remain open to the public on April 26 and April 27 from 11:00 a.m. daily.
Honoring a Visionary
With the theme “Celebrating Legacy, Excellence and Continuity,” the exhibition aims to honor Onobrakpeya’s enduring influence on Nigerian modern art. Organizers describe him as “a pioneer, mentor, and creative visionary whose works have shaped the trajectory of contemporary Nigerian art.” They also highlight his status as a UNESCO-recognized Living Human Treasure.
The event will feature works from generations of artists associated with St. Gregory’s College and beyond. These include the late Victor Uwaifo, David Dale, and Mike Omoighe, among others. Other participating artists include Tayo Tekovi Quaye, Quevi Quaye, Lionel Etta, Morgan Nwanguma, Clement and Philip Trimnell, Tony Marinho, Garuba Abdul-Razak, Edwin Inyang, Kweku Quaye, Nse Abasi Inyang, and Joseph Amenechi.
Bridging Generations
Organizers stated that the exhibition aims to bridge generations of artists and deepen appreciation of Nigerian visual arts. “This exhibition is about legacy and continuity. It brings together masters, mid-career artists, and emerging talents in one creative space,” they said.
Art stakeholders have described the event as a cultural convergence of leadership and creativity. They note that it reflects the growing global relevance of Nigerian art. With its lineup of prominent guests and extensive artistic showcase, the exhibition is expected to rank among the most significant cultural events in Lagos this year.
