Ecobank Nigeria is set to host a landmark art exhibition titled “Enduring Legacies: A Collector’s Tribute to Masters” from August 30 to September 21, 2025, at the Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos. The exhibition is designed to celebrate Nigeria’s most revered visual artists and highlight the rich creative heritage that has shaped the country’s cultural landscape over the decades.
The showcase will feature a rare collection of works from some of the most influential figures in Nigeria’s art history. Curated by renowned art historian Adekepemi Aderemi, the exhibition draws from a private collection assembled by KrabHouse. Among the featured artists are Bruce Onobrakpeya, Twins Seven Seven, Kolade Oshinowo, Muraino Oyelami, Moses Unokwah, Jimoh Buraimoh, Rufus Ogundele, Oyerinde Olotu, Lamidi Fakeye, Sam Ovraiti, Ben Osawe, Tola Wewe, Ini Brown, Alex Nwokolo and Tony Enebeli. These artists have each played a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s art narrative and influencing the global appreciation of African creativity.
According to the curator, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for Nigerians and the global audience to reconnect with the works of visionary artists whose contributions form the backbone of the country’s visual culture. Aderemi described the event as a moment to reflect on and honour the creative minds whose artistry continues to inspire generations. “This exhibition allows us to reconnect with the visionary minds who laid the foundation for Nigeria’s vibrant visual culture. It is about preserving memory, celebrating creativity, and reigniting appreciation for our heritage,” she said.
KrabHouse, the collector behind the art pieces, also expressed its excitement about the project, stating that art must be experienced and remembered to maintain its significance. The representatives emphasized that the exhibition is a way of giving back to society by ensuring the works of Nigeria’s art pioneers remain visible and appreciated. They noted that these works provide not only aesthetic value but also document historical and cultural narratives that are critical to understanding Nigeria’s evolution.
Ecobank Nigeria said its sponsorship of the exhibition is a reflection of its commitment to promoting African art and culture as part of its Pan-African agenda. The bank has consistently supported initiatives that celebrate African creativity and innovation, seeing them as integral to the continent’s socio-economic growth. A spokesperson for the bank said, “We believe in supporting platforms that highlight Africa’s creative excellence. Art is not just about beauty; it is a powerful medium for storytelling, for preserving heritage, and for fostering economic opportunities.”
The exhibition is expected to draw significant attention from art lovers, collectors, cultural scholars, and the general public. It will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., giving visitors ample time to experience the works on display. Beyond showcasing paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces, the event will also provide educational value, encouraging younger artists and students to learn from the masters who have paved the way.
Industry experts say the exhibition could have far-reaching effects on Nigeria’s creative economy. By spotlighting iconic works and drawing in both local and international audiences, it underscores the potential of art as a driver of economic diversification. Nigeria’s art market has witnessed growing global recognition in recent years, with Nigerian artworks fetching significant sums at international auctions and attracting the attention of global collectors.
Observers also believe that initiatives like Ecobank’s exhibition can help build sustainable structures for the creative industry by promoting greater appreciation for art within the country. With proper investment and institutional support, Nigeria’s visual arts sector could contribute substantially to employment and tourism, while also fostering cultural diplomacy.
The significance of “Enduring Legacies” extends beyond Lagos. It positions Nigeria as a cultural powerhouse and highlights the need for preserving the works of legendary artists whose creativity continues to inspire modern artistic movements. As the exhibition unfolds, it offers a reminder of the enduring power of art to connect communities, bridge cultural gaps, and narrate stories that transcend generations.
In hosting this exhibition, Ecobank demonstrates that financial institutions can play a pivotal role beyond banking by contributing to cultural preservation and development. By celebrating Nigeria’s artistic heritage, the bank is also inspiring a future where creativity is valued not only as an expression of identity but also as a critical pillar of sustainable development.
As the event kicks off, expectations are high that it will encourage more partnerships between private sector players and the creative community. Such collaborations are essential in building platforms that will ensure Nigeria’s art and artists continue to thrive on the global stage, ensuring that the legacies of its masters endure for decades to come.
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