Minister Advocates for Public-Private Collaboration to Foster Sustainable Art Industry - Commends Ecobank and Other Sponsors for Supporting Emerging Artists

Minister Advocates for Public-Private Collaboration to Foster Sustainable Art Industry 

...Commends Ecobank and Other Sponsors for Supporting Emerging Artists

Left to right: Omoboye Odu, Head of SME, Partnership and Collaboration, Ecobank Nigeria; Kola Adeleke, Executive Director of Commercial Banking, Ecobank Nigeria; Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria; Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy; Mrs. Tola Akerele, Founder of +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery; and Ms. Toyin Laoshe, Project Director of the +234 Art Fair, at the Art Fair held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos.

Lagos, March 31, 2025 -  Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, has called for stronger collaboration between the private and public sectors to ensure the sustainability of Nigeria's art industry. She also lauded Ecobank Nigeria, the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), Soto Gallery, and other fair sponsors for providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and creativity. The Minister assured that her ministry will continue to support and encourage initiatives like these.

During her visit to the +234 International Art Fair at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Lagos, the Minister expressed her satisfaction with the diverse range of paintings, photography, and sculptures on display. She assured the young artists of continued support and exposure to help them further contribute to the country's economic growth.

The Minister noted, “From what I’ve seen so far, this event beautifully reflects the richness of Nigeria’s emerging talent. It serves as a bridge to the future, drawing inspiration from the past achievements of our ancestors in the world of art. This +234 Art Fair is a powerful evolution of storytelling, filled with emotion. I am proud to see young Nigerian artists being given the opportunity to express themselves fully.”

She further added, “I am truly proud of Ecobank and the other organizers for providing a platform that allows emerging artists to showcase their works. To ensure long-term sustainability of the art industry, it is crucial to involve the government. I am honoured to be here today for the second edition of this wonderful art fair.”