By Ayomide Otitoju
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), a leading infrastructure solutions provider on the continent, has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering youth empowerment by partnering with the +234Art Fair for the second consecutive year. This collaboration aligns with AFC’s mission to elevate Africa’s creative sector, with over 260 young artists expressing interest in showcasing their works at the upcoming edition of the international art fair.
Organized by Soto Gallery in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria, AFC, and Craneburg Construction Company, the meticulously curated five-day event is themed “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art.” It will highlight the works of emerging and unrepresented artists from March 27 to March 31 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The exhibition will open daily at 10:00 AM.
AFC President and CEO, Samaila Zubairu, emphasized the Corporation’s dedication to supporting Africa’s burgeoning creative industry. “The +234Art Fair aligns with AFC’s advocacy strategy of empowering and elevating Africa’s youthful population, fostering job creation, skills development, and economic growth. We are proud to continue our collaboration with Ecobank to champion African art and artists on both local and global platforms,” he stated.
Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, underscored the initiative’s importance in driving economic development. “As a Pan-African bank, we are committed to investing in Africa’s next generation of talent. This fair provides emerging artists with an invaluable platform to present their works to key decision-makers, influencers, and an international audience,” he said.
Founder of +234Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, Mrs. Tola Akerele, highlighted the crucial role of patronage in the art ecosystem. “Supporting artists extends beyond financial aid—it’s about building relationships that enable sustained creative growth. The 2025 edition of the +234Art Fair aims to showcase how meaningful patronage can shape an artist’s journey and the broader art landscape,” she noted.
The fair will feature a diverse array of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, visual and digital art, and installations. Attendees can also engage in interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions with key stakeholders in the creative sector.
Expected to attract a diverse audience, including Nigerian and African art enthusiasts, international residents, government officials, policymakers, and diplomats, the +234Art Fair continues to serve as a vital platform for nurturing and promoting Africa’s artistic talent on the global stage.
