Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group Ltd have announced their joint support of Nigerian Modernism, the first major UK exhibition to trace the trajectory of modern art in Nigeria.
Opening at Tate Modern in London this October, the exhibition brings together over 250 works from more than 50 artists, spotlighting Nigeria’s extraordinary artistic legacy from the 1940s to the turn of the century. This uniquely curated exhibition places Nigeria’s creative legacy firmly at the centre of global art history.
The two sponsoring financial institutions, both chaired by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said in a statement that the partnership represents more than corporate patronage; it is a strategic investment in cultural restoration and identity. By actively supporting Nigerian Modernism, Access Holdings and Coronation Group reaffirm their belief that Africa’s future will be shaped not only by innovation in boardrooms and markets, but by imagination in studios, classrooms and museums.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who is also a member of Tate Modern’s International Council, said of the partnership:
“The modernist movement in Nigeria tells a story not just of art, but of the cultural awakening of a people who, even in times of transition and turmoil, used creativity to assert dignity above circumstance and retain their authentic cultural identity.”
His commitment reflects his philanthropic vision to build enduring African institutions, because for him, culture is not separate from progress; rather it is central to it.
He explains that through this partnership with Tate, Access Holdings and Coronation Group are helping to democratise access to African art, ensuring it is seen, studied and celebrated by the world.
“This is how we inspire the next generation. Not just of artists, but of Africans who know that our stories matter, and their voices are heard throughout history. I believe we all carry a sacred duty to protect and share our cultural legacy. The stories told by the artworks are living testaments to our ingenuity and global contribution as Africans in the modern world,” he said.
Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede called on Nigerians everywhere, whether at home or part of the country’s vast and vibrant diaspora, to celebrate Nigerian Modernism as a cultural homecoming and a catalyst for conversations that challenge outdated narratives.
“The power of art transcends borders, connecting hearts and minds to inspire and drive change. This exhibition reminds us to reconnect with our roots and invites the world to see us through our own lens: rich, diverse and unapologetically African,” Aig-Imoukhuede concluded.
Tate Modern Director, Karin Hindsbo, said: “This landmark exhibition is a powerful celebration of the artists who shaped a powerful vision of African Modernism. It brings long-overdue international attention to their work and tells a visual story of cultural innovation and exchange. We’re thrilled to be presenting this show at Tate Modern and to share the richness of Nigeria’s artistic legacy with audiences here in the UK and around the world.”
The Exhibition, Nigerian Modernism, will hold from 9 October 2025 – 11 May 2026 at Tate Modern, Bankside, London, United Kingdom and apart from the sponsoring partnership with Access Holdings and Coronation Group, it is supported by Ford Foundation and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, with additional backing by the Nigerian Modernism Exhibition Supporters Circle, Tate International Council, Tate Patrons and Tate Americas Foundation. It is curated by Osei Bonsu, with support from Bilal Akkouche, both of Tate Modern.
The list of artists featuring include in Nigerian Modernisminclude Tayo Adenaike, Jacob Afolabi, Sàngódáre Gbádégesin Àjàlá, Adebisi Akanji, Justus D. Akeredolu, Jimo Akolo, El Anatsui, Chike C. Aniakor, Abayomi Barber, Georgina Beier, Alexander “Skunder” Boghossian, Jimoh Buraimoh, Avinash Chandra, Nike Davies-Okundaye, Ndidi Dike, Uzo Egonu, Ibrahim El-Salahi, Afi Ekong, Erhabor Emokpae, Ben Enwonwu, Sir Jacob Epstein, Okpu Eze, Adebisi Fabunmi, Lamidi Olonade Fakeye, Agboola Folarin, Buraimoh Gbadamosi, and Jonathan Adagogo Green.
Others are Yusuf Grillo, Felix Idubor, Ladi Kwali, Akinola Lasekan, Jacob Lawrence, Valente Malangatana, Naoko Matsubara, Demas Nwoko, Olu Oguibe, Rufus Ogundele, J.D Ojeikere, Emmanuel Okechukwu Odita, Simon Okeke, Uche Okeke, Olowe of Ise, Asiru Olatunde, Oseloka Okwudili Osadebe, Aina Onabolu, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ben Osawe, Muraina Oyelami, Ru van Rossem, Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, Gerard Sekoto, Twins Seven Seven, Ahmad Shibrain, F.N. Souza, Ada Udechukwu, Obiora Udechukwu, Etso Clara Ugbodaga-Ngu, Solomon Irein Wangboje, and Susanne Wenger.
