Lagos’ vibrant art scene took centre stage as RMB Latitudes unveiled the RMB Latitudes Nigeria Focus exhibition, an initiative celebrating contemporary Nigerian artists and their place within a broader African and global conversation.
Hosted at Miliki Private Club in Victoria Island, the exhibition brought together artists, curators and collectors, creating a space for connection across Nigeria’s dynamic creative economy, underscoring RMB Latitudes’ commitment to strengthening connections across Africa while amplifying local voices globally.
Speaking at the opening, Bayo Ajayi, Chief Executive Officer of RMB Nigeria, said the exhibition reflects the bank’s sustained commitment to Africa’s creative and cultural sectors.
“Art plays a vital role in shaping identity, stimulating dialogue, and imagining new futures,” Ajayi said. “Through initiatives like Nigeria Focus, we are creating platforms that ensure Nigerian perspectives are seen, valued, and engaged with—both locally and globally.”
Ajayi reaffirmed RMB’s support for creative ecosystems that generate sustainable opportunities for artists while contributing to broader economic and social development.
Roberta Coci, Co‑founder and Director of Latitudes Online and the RMB Latitudes Art Fair, described the exhibition as a key milestone.
“This project is deeply meaningful for us,” Coci said. “After months of engagement and collaboration, bringing Nigeria Focus to Lagos has exceeded our expectations. The openness, energy, and sophistication of Nigeria’s creative community reaffirm the importance of building enduring cultural bridges across the continent.”
Coci added that the relationships formed through the initiative are designed to extend beyond the exhibition, supporting long‑term collaboration.
The Lagos showcase serves as a precursor to the RMB Latitudes Art Fair, scheduled for 22–24 May 2026 in Johannesburg, where selected Nigerian artists will gain greater exposure to international audiences, collectors, and institutions.
Shola Ogunyemi, Head Marketing and Communications at RMB Nigeria, highlighted the strategic importance of culture within the bank’s broader outlook.
“We do not see art in isolation,” Ogunyemi said. “Creativity and culture underpin how societies innovate, build institutions, and drive long‑term growth.”
He noted that the exhibition attracted nearly 600 artist applications, with the final selection reflecting the diversity, experimentation, and global relevance of Nigeria’s contemporary art scene.
The exhibition was co‑curated by Ugonna Ibe‑Ejiogu, Co‑founder and Creative Director of Yenwa Gallery in Lagos, and Boitumelo Makousu, Curator at RMB Latitudes and Latitudes Online in Johannesburg—bringing together West and Southern African perspectives through a collaborative curatorial approach.
Commenting on the initiative, Ibe‑Ejiogu said:
“Projects like Nigeria Focus help dismantle barriers within the international art market. They create familiarity, trust, and access—opening meaningful pathways for Nigerian artists to reach new audiences.”
“This exhibition represents a powerful alignment between West and Southern Africa. It is about creating platforms where African artists define their narratives and where Africa celebrates and owns its stories.”
The exhibition features works by 31 Nigerian artists, including Adetutu Abediran, Adaoma Nnabeze, Benson Apha, Caroline Useh, Chidinma Mordi, Chinecherem Ifedilichukwu, Damilola Joy, David Olatoye, Diseye Tantua, Duke Asidere, Ehinomen Okoeki, Faith Omole and Jemiye Ugwujide, among others.
