Ahead of formal presentation of his Order of the British Empire (MBE) award to Nigeria, artist Lanre Olagoke has been described as a visionary professional. The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa made the assertion during a gathering in honour of Olagoke, in London, U.K few days ago.

Olagoke, a Nigerian-British artist, who was honoured with MBE by King Charles III, has indicated his intention to formally present the award to Nigeria, through the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government. Olagoke was merited for his Art-Alive Arts Trust (AAAT), in what the British government said stands “for services to charity and young people.”

Presenting the MBE to Olagoke at Windsor Castle, U.K, Prince Williams noted what he described as “great things” in “long service” as well as “considerable achievements” by the artist..Williams confirmed that the youths that went through Olagoke’s Art-Alive Trust activities” have made “selfless commitment to their communities,”

After presenting his MBE to Nigeria – before the end of 2024 – Olagoke hopes to extend AAAT’s activities to his native country working in partnership with the federal government. “Art-Alive had done quite a few activities outside the UK, including one in Lagos, empowering less privileged youths with creative knowledge,” Olagoke recalled. “With the support and encouragement coming from the Minister, Hanatu Musawa, I am further energised to do more, working with the Federal Government of Nigeria.”

Two days after Olagoke formally received his MBE Award from Prince Williams, who represented King Charles at the award ceremony, select Nigerians in diaspora joined others to celebrate the awardee. “It is my honor to celebrate the remarkable achievements of an extraordinary artist, visionary, and founder of Art-Alive UK, Sir Lanre Olagoke, MBE,” Musawa stated. “We not only appreciate his incredible art but also commend a man whose contributions to the world of art and community have earned him the prestigious recognition of being conferred by King Charles.”

Represented at the Nigerian event by her Deputy Personal Assistant, Amira Ibrahim, the minister noted that Olagoke is a name that resonates with passion, creativity, and a commitment to making the world a better place through art. The minister recalled that Olagoke’s journey has been one of relentless dedication, transforming the artistic landscape and touching countless lives along the way. She argued that the MBE honour represents a testament to Olagoke’s significant impact and the high regard in which he is held.

The minister, who was in London, but couldn’t attend the event as a result of other schedules also agreed that Olagoke’s honour goes beyond his personality.”His recognition by King Charles is not just a personal accolade but a celebration of the power of art to make a difference,” Musawa explained. “It highlights the importance of nurturing creativity and supporting artists who strive to bring positive change to society.” The gathering also had in attendance, among others Bisi Ilaka, former aide to Oyo State Governor, S’eyi Makinde; and renowned illustrator and artist, Bob Murdock.

Early this year. 1,200 recipients from diverse professions were listed to receive the king’s honour in an announcement by the British government. Olagoke has been listed among the recipients for his work in using art as a means of employment for the underprivileged youths in the UK and Africa.

“The New Year Honours List recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion,” British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak said in his announcement of the awardees. “To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”

Olagoke founded Art-Alive Arts Trust, as a charity in the UK, in 1997, as a platform to help young people in various settings from primary schools to prisons access the arts. Olagoke’s AAAT has been engaging participants in various art workshops within and outside the UK.

Meanwhile, Olayinke continues his art activism in the UK with a new concept themed ‘Who Am I?’ scheduled to take place on July 9, 2024, at National Gallery, London.