Nigerian Modernism exhibition draws over 180,000 visitors to Tate Museum in London, strengthening global appreciation of African art, culture and creative heritage.
Access Holdings Plc and Coronation Group have celebrated the global impact of the Nigerian Modernism exhibition at Tate Modern in London, describing it as a landmark cultural project that elevated Nigerian art and heritage on the international stage.
The two organizations hosted a private reception at the gallery to mark the exhibition’s success after it showcased nearly 300 works by more than 50 Nigerian artists and attracted over 180,000 visitors during its run from October 2025 to May 2026.
Chairman of Access Holdings and Coronation Group, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, said one of the exhibition’s greatest achievements was inspiring young people, particularly those of African heritage, to reconnect with their cultural identity.
“One of the aspects of this exhibition that stands out most for me is the opportunity we created for nearly 2,800 students, many of them of African heritage, to experience Tate Modern. While their encounters with the artworks could not be formally documented, the feedback we received spoke volumes. For many of these young people, the exhibition inspired a deeper appreciation of their heritage, reinforcing their sense of identity and pride in their African roots.”
He also highlighted the broader role of culture in nation-building and diplomacy, pointing to President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the exhibition during his trip to London as evidence of its national significance.
“I have long believed that great nations are built at the intersection of financial, knowledge and cultural capital. Of these, cultural capital is often the force that brings everything else together. We saw a powerful example of that when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu chose to include a private tour of Nigerian Modernism during his historic visit to London It was a remarkable moment that demonstrated the unique role culture can play in strengthening national identity, global engagement and diplomacy.”
