By Ayomide Otitoju
Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group Ltd, chaired by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR, have announced their joint support for Nigerian Modernism, the first major UK exhibition dedicated to tracing the development of modern art in Nigeria.
Opening this October at Tate Modern in London, the landmark exhibition will feature more than 250 works from over 50 artists, showcasing Nigeria’s vibrant artistic legacy from the 1940s to the early 2000s. Curators say the exhibition places Nigeria’s creative contributions firmly within global art history.
For the two financial institutions, the partnership goes beyond corporate patronage, representing what they describe as a strategic investment in cultural restoration and identity. “Africa’s future will be shaped not only by innovation in boardrooms and markets, but also by imagination in studios, classrooms, and museums,” Access Holdings and Coronation Group said in a joint statement.
Aig-Imoukhuede, who also serves as a member of Tate Modern’s International Council and is recognized as one of Africa’s foremost arts patrons, underscored the significance of the initiative. “The modernist movement in Nigeria tells a story not just of art, but of cultural awakening,” he said. “Even in times of transition and turmoil, creativity was used to assert dignity and preserve authentic cultural identity.”
He stressed that supporting Nigerian Modernism reflects his broader philanthropic vision of building enduring African institutions, with culture positioned at the heart of progress. “This is how we inspire the next generation—not just of artists, but of Africans who know our stories matter and whose voices will be heard throughout history,” he added.
Tate Modern’s Director, Karin Hindsbo, welcomed the collaboration, describing the exhibition as “a powerful celebration of the artists who shaped African Modernism.” She added: “It brings overdue international recognition to their work and highlights a vital visual history of innovation and exchange.”
Calling on Nigerians at home and across the diaspora to embrace the project, Aig-Imoukhuede described the exhibition as both a cultural homecoming and an opportunity to reshape global conversations. “The power of art transcends borders,” he said. “This exhibition reconnects us with our roots and invites the world to see us through our own lens—rich, diverse, and unapologetically African.”
