The National Gallery of Art hosted a heartfelt tribute last night in honor of its pioneering Director-General, Dr. Paul Chike Dike (OON), who passed away on February 19, 2026, in Abuja at the age of 82.

Born on June 12, 1944, in Enugu-Ukwu, Anambra State, Dr. Dike’s educational journey began at Christ the King School (CKS) in Aba and Abbot Secondary Grammar School in Ihiala, where he earned his West African School Certificate (WASC). He continued to excel at the University of Ibadan, Oxford University in the UK, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, specializing in Ethnographical, Anthropological, and Sociological Studies.

His deep knowledge of verbal and concrete iconography has greatly enriched societal aesthetics, encouraging us to appreciate the beauty inherent in our lives.

Dr. Dike’s career at the National Museum began in 1971, when he started as an Ethnographer grade 2. He rose through the ranks to serve as Director of Training and Research from 1990 to 1993. In 1993, he became the Director/Chief Executive of the National Gallery of Art, a role he fulfilled until his retirement in 2006. As the inaugural Director-General, he established a strong foundation for the Gallery, which now boasts 25 outstations across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. His innovative reforms introduced both local and international programs that continue to resonate in the art community today.

The tribute event, held at Novare Mall in Wuse-Abuja, drew a diverse crowd of esteemed guests, including former and current members of the National Gallery, colleagues, friends, and family. Among those in attendance were Mr. Abdullahi Muku, former Director-General of the NGA, Rev. Fr. Damian Akut, who officiated the service, Barr. Peter Eze, former board chairman of the NGA, Prof. Ehechukwu Madubuike, former Minister of Health and Education, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, and His Royal Highness, Ezebube, along with Mrs. Ugo Agada Uya, retired Director and head of service. Attendees shared heartfelt tributes, reflecting on Dr. Dike’s selfless service and remarkable contributions to both the gallery and society as a whole.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Director General of the National Gallery of Art (NGA) reflected on the impactful legacy of the institution’s pioneer DG, Dr. Dike. He emphasized that Dike not only laid the foundational structures of the NGA but did so with remarkable courage, clarity of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. As a custodian of the nation’s artistic heritage, Dr. Dike transformed the Gallery into a beacon of creative excellence.

He highlighted that Dike’s leadership was characterized by integrity, intellect, and a profound passion for the arts. He firmly believed in art’s power to preserve history, foster dialogue, and shape national identity. Under his guidance, essential structures, policies, and a visionary framework were established, which continue to drive the institution forward.

On a personal note, the director described Dr. Dike as a mentor whose passion for the arts was evident in every interaction. His steady voice of wisdom and encouragement spurred generations of artists, curators, and cultural administrators. The director concluded that Dr. Dike’s legacy endures not just within the NGA but also in the hearts and works of those he inspired.

Former Minister of Health and Education, Prof. Ehechukwu Madubuike, praised Dr. Dike as an artistic authority—an adept administrator, gentleman, and talented writer and editor. He encouraged the family to remain steadfast and draw strength from the enduring legacy of their patriarch, highlighting that Dr. Dike truly came, saw, and conquered.

Additionally, former DG Mr. Abdullahi Muku shared insights into Dike’s passion for administration, noting that he was driven not by materialism but by a deep desire to see others succeed. He recognized Dike as a significant figure in the cultural landscape of Nigeria, underscoring his pivotal role in not only founding the National Gallery of Art but also in establishing the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA).