The Osahon Okunbo Foundation (TOOF) is the official sponsor of the Nigeria Spotlight at the 17th Abu Dhabi Art 2025, held from November 19–23. In collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, the Foundation facilitated the participation of eight top Nigerian galleries, advancing its mission to promote African creativity internationally.
This year’s fair gathers more than 140 galleries from 37 countries — the largest edition in its history and the final before its evolution into Frieze Abu Dhabi. It marks a symbolic moment: a global platform expanding its identity just as Nigeria asserts its cultural presence with greater intention.
The Nigeria Spotlight, sponsored by TOOF, features 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 present a diverse, rigorous cross-section of contemporary Nigerian art — engaging themes of identity, memory, politics, spirituality, and the evolving language of African expression. The selection brings historic and contemporary influences into conversation, from the Osogbo School to today’s boundary-pushing voices.
For TOOF, this is more than participation — it’s a deliberate investment in cultural access, visibility, and authorship.
“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, to intersect with new ideas, and to take up space confidently — whether in Abu Dhabi, Lagos, or anywhere their work leads them.”
The fair also serves as a crucial meeting point for curators, collectors, institutions, and cultural stakeholders. Through TOOF’s sponsorship, Nigerian galleries were able to deepen international networks, broaden market opportunities, and meet 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 sits within its broader vision: to create pathways where African stories, talent, and innovation can be seen, understood, and supported globally. By investing in platforms like Abu Dhabi Art, the Foundation continues to amplify Nigerian creativity — not as an emerging voice, but as a defining force shaping contemporary culture.
Photos: Media Assets
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