Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised the city’s vibrant creative energy as he joined artists, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts at the opening night of the 10th edition of ART X Lagos, West Africa’s leading international art fair.
Held at the Federal Palace on Victoria Island, the event showcased contemporary works from across the continent, reaffirming Lagos’s growing reputation as the cultural heartbeat of Africa.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a post on his official social media page, described the exhibition as “an inspiring display of incredible talent and creativity that continue to make Lagos the heart of contemporary African art.”
He congratulated the organisers and participating artists, noting that their innovation and passion “reaffirm why our city is truly a hub for culture and innovation.”
Celebrating a Decade of Creativity
ART X Lagos, founded in 2016 by Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, has evolved into a major cultural event attracting international attention. Over the years, it has hosted artists from more than 30 African countries and beyond, becoming a platform that connects Lagos to the global art economy.
This year’s edition features exhibitions, panel discussions, live performances, and digital art installations — a blend of tradition and modernity that reflects the dynamic spirit of Nigeria’s creative class.
A Booming Creative Economy
The governor’s appearance comes amid growing recognition of the role of arts and entertainment in Nigeria’s economy. According to government data and industry reports, the creative sector contributes between 1.4% and 2.3% to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) — equivalent to about ₦1.97 trillion (US$1.4 billion) in 2023.
The sector, which includes film, music, art, design, fashion, and digital content, is one of the fastest-growing in Africa, employing more than 4 million Nigerians directly and indirectly.
In Lagos alone, the creative and entertainment season — encompassing art fairs, concerts, theatre, and fashion events — was estimated to have added ₦50 billion to the state’s GDP in 2022, according to BusinessDay.
Analysts say that beyond economics, the sector also strengthens Nigeria’s global image, promotes tourism, and fosters youth employment and innovation.
Art Beyond the Canvas
Experts argue that ART X Lagos exemplifies how art can stimulate other industries. The annual fair generates income for hotels, event planners, logistics providers, and restaurants — an economic ripple effect that extends well beyond the galleries.
Dr. Ayo Ayeni, a Lagos-based creative economist, told the BBC that events like ART X Lagos “show how culture is an investment, not a cost. Every artwork sold or performance staged sustains an ecosystem of designers, printers, photographers, marketers, and curators.”
He added that Nigeria’s young, tech-savvy population is increasingly blending art with digital innovation — from NFTs to virtual galleries — expanding opportunities for global visibility and exports.
Government Support and Policy Push
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s attendance underscores the Lagos State Government’s continued interest in the creative industries as part of its economic diversification agenda.
Under its “Creative Lagos” initiative, the state has partnered with private investors to build cultural hubs, sponsor art festivals, and provide grants for young creatives.
Officials say these efforts aim to position Lagos as Africa’s leading creative capital — not just in art and music, but in film, fashion, and digital storytelling.
A Global Stage for African Art
As ART X Lagos marks its tenth year, organisers say they hope to expand the fair’s reach and impact. Founder Tokini Peterside-Schwebig has described the initiative as a “platform to tell African stories on our own terms, while connecting our artists to collectors and institutions around the world.”
With its growing economic footprint and international appeal, Lagos’s art scene continues to demonstrate that creativity is not only cultural expression — but also a key driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation.
