Eight young artists showcase works at 2026 exhibition
Lagos State Government has commended CraftVantage art exhibition for unlocking local and international employment opportunities for young Nigerian artists, while attracting investment and promoting sustainability in the creative industry for economic growth.

Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Titilayo Oshodi, gave the commendation during the CraftVantage 2026 Graduate Exhibition, themed: “Bold Stories, Sustainable Futures,” held in Lagos yesterday.

She said the state government identifies the creative industry and green economy as critical sectors for economic diversification and growth, noting that Nigeria must begin to explore alternative revenue sources beyond oil by leveraging its abundant natural and human resources in the creative industry.

Oshodi added that the creative industry, particularly the arts, had become a premium sector capable of driving cultural development while also creating economic value.

The governor’s aide, while commending CraftVantage for providing a platform for fresh university graduates to showcase their talents, said that the initiative would not only promote entertainment and culture but also create employment opportunities and expand market access for emerging artists.

Oshodi pledged the state government would support the artists by facilitating access to markets and investment opportunities to scale and grow their operations.

Founder and Programme Director of CraftVantage, Oluwayemisi Ogunbodede, said that the programme was designed to support fresh graduates and provide them with platforms to showcase their talents and stories, adding that the artists went through intensive training and mentorship for months.

According to her, the exhibition was aimed at presenting the artists’ creativity, technical skills and commitment to sustainability through the use of eco-conscious materials and processes.

Ogunbodede said the organisation is committed to nurturing emerging artists through mentorship, financial support, professional guidance, curated platforms and international exposure as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy.

She, however, disclosed that some of the artworks would be sold, while others would be showcased in galleries, museums, taken on tours and presented through international opportunities.

Programme Curator of CraftVantage and Visiting Professor in the Department of Art & Design at Missouri State University, Dr Bolaji Ogunwo, described the exhibition as a platform aimed at projecting young Nigerian artists, painters and sculptors onto the global stage through storytelling and creative expression.