President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, leveraged a high-profile cultural event in London to advance Nigeria’s economic narrative and reinforce the country’s growing influence through cultural diplomacy, declaring that ongoing reforms are steering the nation towards recovery and long-term stability.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the British Government at Tate Modern as part of his state visit, the President said Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage and creative industry remain critical assets in projecting the country’s global image and strengthening international partnerships.

The event, centred on an exhibition of Nigerian modern art, brought together policymakers, investors, diplomats and members of the Nigerian diaspora, providing a platform for both cultural engagement and economic messaging.

Tinubu described the theme of Nigeria’s Modernism as emblematic of a defining period in the country’s history, when a generation of artists asserted identity and reshaped narratives about Nigeria.

“The theme of the exhibition, ‘Nigeria’s Modernism,’ is more than just a title for an art show. It is a testament to revolution. It tells the story of a generation of Nigerian giants who, in the middle of the 20th century, refused to be despised but chose to define themselves,” he said.

He noted that the fusion of traditional and contemporary artistic expressions reflects the broader Nigerian story, one of resilience, reinvention and enduring relevance on the global stage.

Pivoting to the economy, the president assured the international audience that Nigeria is emerging from a period of uncertainty, with reforms beginning to yield tangible results.

According to him, the country is transitioning into a new phase of stability and growth, driven by policy adjustments and the resilience of its people.

He urged stakeholders not to be swayed by pessimistic narratives, stressing that Nigeria’s long-term outlook remains positive.

“Nigerians have consistently demonstrated the capacity to excel anywhere in the world. That same spirit is driving our recovery and will define our future,” Tinubu said.

In his remarks, the United Kingdom’s Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, underscored the strength of UK-Nigeria relations, describing both countries as strategic partners bound by shared values and expanding economic ties.

He disclosed that bilateral trade between Nigeria and the UK has reached £8.1 billion yearly, while more than half a million Nigerians continue to contribute significantly to the UK’s cultural and economic landscape.

Lammy also highlighted Nigeria’s global cultural influence, noting that its impact spans visual arts, film and music, reinforcing the importance of cultural diplomacy as a bridge between both nations.

The event, moderated by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, also spotlighted the growing prominence of Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly those occupying strategic roles across various sectors in the UK.

Among senior government officials in attendance were Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa; and Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Others included Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu; and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.