The Osahon Okunbo Foundation has sponsored the Nigeria Spotlight at the 17th Edition of Abu Dhabi Art 2025 (November 19–23), enabling eight leading Nigerian galleries to showcase their work at the largest edition of the fair in its history. In collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, the Foundation facilitated the participation of kò, SOTO Gallery, O’DA Gallery, AMG Projects, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, Ishara Gallery, and a special project by MADhouse x Tikera Africa.
This year’s Abu Dhabi Art brought together more than 140 galleries from 37 countries and marks the final edition before the fair’s evolution into Frieze Abu Dhabi. The Nigeria Spotlight presented a rigorous selection of contemporary Nigerian art exploring themes of identity, memory, politics, and spirituality—bridging historic influences from the Osogbo School with today’s innovative voices.
For the Foundation, the sponsorship represents a deliberate commitment to expanding cultural access and visibility for Nigerian artists on the global stage. Osahon Okunbo, Founder of The Osahon Okunbo Foundation, emphasized this mission: “Art is one of the clearest ways a nation tells the truth about itself. Sponsoring the Nigeria Spotlight allows us to support the artists carrying that truth into the world. We want their voices to travel, to intersect with new ideas, and to take up space confidently.”
The fair provided a crucial platform for Nigerian galleries to strengthen international networks, access new markets, and connect with global audiences and collectors. Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, affirmed the partnership: “Through this strategic collaboration, we reaffirm Nigeria’s cultural relevance on the world stage.”
This sponsorship reflects TOOF’s broader commitment to positioning African creativity—particularly Nigerian talent—not as an emerging force, but as a defining influence shaping contemporary global culture.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
