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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday celebrated the creativity and unyielding spirit of Nigerians during a reception at the Tate Modern Art Gallery, organised by the British Government to honour his state visit.
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, speaking at the exhibition with the theme, “Nigeria’s Modernism,” Tinubu praised how Nigerians have transformed historical images into modern legacies.
“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.
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The president lauded the fusion of ancient and modern elements in Nigerian art, creating a timeless body of work that showcases the nation’s ingenuity. He also reassured attendees that Nigeria’s economy has emerged from “the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty and hopelessness,” steering toward the bright future citizens deserve. Tinubu urged the audience to ignore “negative indices often bandied about by naysayers,” expressing full confidence in Nigerians’ ability to excel globally.
UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, who hosted the event, welcomed President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, spotlighting the robust UK-Nigeria partnership built on mutual respect. He noted annual trade reaching £8.1 billion, with over half a million Nigerians enriching the UK’s cultural and economic fabric.
Lammy celebrated Nigeria’s global cultural impact, from art to entertainment, and emphasised the forward-looking trade and investment talks strengthening ties.
