Access Holdings and Coronation Group Sponsor Nigerian Modernism Art Exhibition in the UK
Access Holdings Plc (https://TheAccessCorporation.com/) and Coronation Group Ltd, led by Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR, have jointly announced their sponsorship of Nigerian Modernism — the first major UK exhibition dedicated to exploring the evolution of modern art in Nigeria. Opening this October at Tate Modern, London, the exhibition will feature over 250 artworks by more than 50 artists, showcasing Nigeria’s remarkable creative journey from the 1940s to the early 2000s. This groundbreaking presentation positions Nigeria’s artistic innovation at the heart of global modern art discourse.
For both financial institutions, the collaboration goes beyond simple corporate sponsorship. It represents a deliberate commitment to cultural renewal and national identity. By supporting Nigerian Modernism, Access Holdings and Coronation Group reaffirm their shared conviction that Africa’s development will be shaped not only by economic and technological progress, but also by the power of artistic imagination and cultural expression.
As Chairman of both organizations and a member of Tate Modern’s International Council, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR brings a personal passion for advancing African art. He reflected:
“Nigeria’s modernist movement tells a profound story — one of resilience and creative self-definition. Even in times of upheaval, these artists used their craft to assert dignity, preserve identity, and express the spirit of a people in transformation.”
This initiative mirrors Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s long-standing philanthropic vision of building strong African institutions rooted in culture and education. To him, art and progress are inseparable forces. He explained that through the partnership with Tate, Access Holdings and Coronation Group aim to broaden global access to African art — ensuring it is studied, appreciated, and celebrated internationally.
“This is about inspiring future generations — not only artists, but all Africans who must know their stories matter,” he said. “We have a responsibility to protect and promote our cultural heritage. Each artwork on display stands as living evidence of Africa’s creativity and global influence.”
Karin Hindsbo, Director of Tate Modern, added:
“This major exhibition honors the pioneering artists who shaped the vision of African Modernism. It’s a celebration of creativity and cultural exchange that brings overdue global recognition to Nigerian art. We’re proud to host Nigerian Modernism at Tate Modern and to share its richness with audiences across the world.”
Calling on Nigerians both at home and abroad, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede described the exhibition as a “cultural homecoming” and a moment to challenge outdated perspectives on African art.
“Art has the power to transcend borders and connect humanity. Nigerian Modernism invites the world to see us as we truly are — diverse, dynamic, and proudly African,” he stated.
Exhibition Details
Nigerian Modernism
📅 9 October 2025 – 11 May 2026
📍 Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG, London, United Kingdom
🔗 Nigerian Modernism | Tate Modern
🕙 Open daily 10:00–18:00
🎟️ Tickets available at www.Tate.org.uk or call +44(0)20 7887 8888
🎫 Free for Members — Join here: https://apo-opa.co/47aiTYT
Follow @Tate with #NigerianModernism
Nigerian Modernism is in partnership with Access Holdings and Coronation Group. Supported by Ford Foundation and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. With additional support from the Nigerian Modernism Exhibition Supporters Circle, Tate International Council, Tate Patrons and Tate Americas Foundation. Curated by Osei Bonsu, Curator, International Art, Tate Modern and Bilal Akkouche, Assistant Curator, International Art, Tate Modern.
List of artists featured in Nigerian Modernism:
Tayo Adenaike, Jacob Afolabi, Sàngódáre Gbádégesin Àjàlá, Adebisi Akanji, Justus D. Akeredolu, Jimo Akolo, El Anatsui, Chike C. Aniakor, Abayomi Barber, Georgina Beier, Alexander “Skunder” Boghossian, Jimoh Buraimoh, Avinash Chandra, Nike Davies-Okundaye, Ndidi Dike, Uzo Egonu, Ibrahim El-Salahi, Afi Ekong, Erhabor Emokpae, Ben Enwonwu, Sir Jacob Epstein, Okpu Eze, Adebisi Fabunmi, Lamidi Olonade Fakeye, Agboola Folarin, Buraimoh Gbadamosi, Jonathan Adagogo Green, Yusuf Grillo, Felix Idubor, Ladi Kwali, Akinola Lasekan, Jacob Lawrence, Valente Malangatana, Naoko Matsubara, Demas Nwoko, Olu Oguibe, Rufus Ogundele, J.D Ojeikere, Emmanuel Okechukwu Odita, Simon Okeke, Uche Okeke, Olowe of Ise, Asiru Olatunde, Oseloka Okwudili Osadebe, Aina Onabolu, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ben Osawe, Muraina Oyelami, Ru van Rossem, Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, Gerard Sekoto, Twins Seven Seven, Ahmad Shibrain, F.N. Souza, Ada Udechukwu, Obiora Udechukwu, Etso Clara Ugbodaga-Ngu, Solomon Irein Wangboje, and Susanne Wenger.
