By Majeed Salaam
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last Thursday in London celebrated the ingenuity and resilience of Nigerians, describing their creativity as a defining force shaping the nation’s identity and history. Speaking at a reception at the Tate Modern showcasing Nigerian modern art, he said that the exhibition reflected the enduring spirit of a people who have consistently turned challenges into progress.
Organised by the British Government as part of activities marking Tinubu’s State Visit to the United Kingdom, the event brought together government officials, cultural stakeholders, and members of the Nigerian diaspora. According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President highlighted the exhibition theme, ‘Nigeria’s Modernism,’ as emblematic of a historic movement led by bold thinkers who refused to be constrained by colonial narratives.
“The theme of the exhibition, 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,” President Tinubu said. He commended Nigerian artists for blending tradition with modernity to produce works of global relevance, emphasizing that such creativity underscores the nation’s cultural strength and appeal.
The President also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic outlook, declaring that the country is emerging from a period of uncertainty toward sustained growth. “Recent reforms have repositioned the economy, and Nigerians should remain confident in their collective ability to succeed despite pessimistic narratives,” he said. Tinubu urged stakeholders to focus on resilience and enterprise as the nation’s greatest assets.
Speaking at the event, David Lammy, Deputy Prime Minister of United Kingdom, highlighted the depth of bilateral relations, noting that annual trade between Nigeria and the UK has reached £8.1 billion. He commended Nigeria’s cultural influence, particularly in the arts and entertainment sectors, and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening cooperation through trade and investment.
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, who moderated the event, highlighted the achievements of Nigerians in prominent positions across the UK, reinforcing the role of the diaspora in enhancing bilateral relations.
Several top Nigerian officials attended the gathering, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Justice and Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Defence Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Mohammed Mohammed.
The exhibition formed part of Nigeria’s broader cultural diplomacy strategy to showcase the country’s artistic achievements and deepen engagement with global partners during the President’s historic UK visit. It highlighted the role of culture in complementing economic and political initiatives, promoting Nigeria’s image as a resilient and innovative nation.
The gathering highlighted how creativity, culture, and commerce intersect, reinforcing Nigeria’s soft power and signaling opportunities for further collaboration in trade, investment, and cultural exchange between both nations.
