“We do an open call every year to ensure that artists from all over Nigeria have an opportunity to showcase their work. Our aim is to encourage emerging artists, particularly those outside Lagos, by giving them visibility and a chance to grow within the industry,” Akerele said.
The +234 Art Fair features four main pavilions: 2D (traditional fine art), 3D (sculpture and photography), and digital art. Last year’s theme focused on heritage and culture, while this year’s edition emphasizes patronage—encouraging individuals and institutions to support Nigerian artists in meaningful ways.
“How can we support artists as patrons? How can we inspire the next generation and build an ecosystem that truly promotes them?” Akerele asked. “Patronage isn’t just about buying art; it includes mentorship, providing studio spaces, financial advice, and connecting artists with the right galleries.”
The event, which has been running for several years in partnership with Ecobank, has grown significantly, offering artists a springboard into both local and international markets. According to Akerele, previous editions have propelled many participants into global recognition, with some securing representation in international galleries and museums.
This year, the fair also includes a children’s gallery, doubling in size due to high demand from last year. “Many young people aspire to be artists, but societal pressures push them toward conventional careers. We want to show them that art can be a viable profession,” Akerele noted.
Ms Omoboye Odu – Head SME, Partnerships and Collaboration, Ecobank Nigeria said with over 1,000 applications received this year, the curatorial team carefully selected 140 artists whose works best represent the depth and quality of Nigerian artistry.
“The goal is to highlight the best of Nigeria’s creative sector and ensure these artists get the recognition they deserve,” she added.
According to her, the five-day event is open to the public with free entry, providing an opportunity for art lovers, collectors, and enthusiasts to explore and support Nigeria’s growing creative industry.
Ecobank Nigeria Ltd. is a subsidiary of Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African banking group, with operations in 33 African countries and an international presence in four locations (London, Paris, Beijing, and Dubai). Ecobank Nigeria is a full-service bank, offering wholesale, retail, investment, and transaction banking services to governments, financial institutions, multinationals, international organizations, medium, small, and micro businesses, and individuals.
Ecobank plays a key role in promoting tourism, culture, and the creative industries, in line with its Pan-African policy of advancing art across the continent. The Bank recognizes the creative industry as an essential driver of economic growth, well-being, and global connectivity.
Ecobank Nigeria is behind key cultural initiatives like the annual Adire Lagos Experience and the Oja Oge Pop-Up Marketplace.
+234Art is an international art exhibition curated by Soto Gallery, in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria Limited and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). It is dedicated to showcasing young, ‘un-galleried’ emerging Nigerian artists.
The name ‘+234Art’ is derived from Nigeria’s country calling code, combined with the all-encompassing word ‘Art’.
SOTO Gallery is a contemporary art center committed to sharing diverse African perspectives through art. The gallery aims to spotlight emerging talents while promoting established artists, creating a bridge between new and known talents in Africa’s evolving art industry.
