By Ayomide Otitoju
In a move to promote sustainability and creativity in Nigeria, Ecobank Nigeria has unveiled Kong in a Cage, a striking art installation by Toyeeb Ajayi. The piece, crafted entirely from recycled materials, is on display at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos. Open to the public on weekends, the installation delivers a compelling message about humanity’s relationship with nature.
Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive of Ecobank Nigeria, highlighted the initiative as part of the bank’s broader commitment to environmental protection and support for the creative industries. “This installation underscores our dedication to sustainability while providing a global platform for Nigerian artists,” Lawal said. “The creative sector is a vital driver of economic growth and global connection, and we are committed to investing in young talent to shape a brighter future for Nigeria.”
Lawal added that the bank’s efforts align with its Pan-African mission to uplift the continent’s creative sector and inspire conversations on environmental stewardship.
The artist, Toyeeb Ajayi, described Kong in a Cage as a reflection on environmental sustainability and humanity’s impact on nature. Constructed from repurposed materials, the installation merges art with activism, offering a visual critique of ecological neglect.
“Kong in a Cage is more than an artwork; it’s a dialogue,” Ajayi explained. “It invites viewers to rethink their relationship with the planet and consider the potential of reclaimed materials. By situating this piece in an urban business hub, it serves as a stark reminder of our responsibility to protect the fragile balance of nature.”
Ecobank has long championed environmental sustainability, exemplified by initiatives like its “Get Cash for Plastic Bottles” campaign, which removed over four million plastic bottles from Lagos streets and waterways. The bank is also active in tree-planting programs to mitigate environmental degradation.
With Kong in a Cage, Ecobank continues to bridge the gap between art, sustainability, and community engagement, fostering a culture of responsibility and creativity for a greener future.
