Tinubu salutes Nigerian giants at London modern art exhibition
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday praised the creativity and resilience of Nigerians at an exhibition of Nigerian modern art at Tate Modern in London, describing it as a celebration of a generation that “refused to be despised but chose to define themselves.”
Speaking during a reception organised by the British government as part of his state visit, President Tinubu said the exhibition, themed Nigeria’s Modernism, “is more than just a title for an art show. It is a testament to revolution. It tells the story of a generation of Nigerian giants, who in the middle of the 20th century refused to be despised but chose to define themselves.”
The President lauded the ingenuity of Nigerian artists for creating a timeless body of work that fuses the ancient and the modern. He also assured the gathering that Nigeria’s economy had emerged from a period of uncertainty and is now moving toward a bright future, encouraging Nigerians to remain confident despite negative narratives sometimes circulated by critics.
UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who hosted the reception, welcomed the President and First Lady, emphasizing the strong strategic partnership between the UK and Nigeria. He highlighted the £8.1 billion in annual trade between the two countries and noted the contributions of over half a million Nigerians to the UK’s cultural and economic life.
Lammy also praised Nigeria’s global cultural influence, from art to entertainment, and reiterated the UK’s commitment to fostering trade and investment dialogue with Nigeria.
The event was moderated by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, who highlighted the achievements of Nigerians holding key positions in the UK.
The exhibition and reception were attended by top Nigerian officials, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ministers Hannatu Musawa, Lateef Fagbemi, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Wale Edun, Jumoke Oduwole, Tunji Alausa, Bianca Ojukwu, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.
