The Coronation Art Gallery opened its first exhibition of the year with a gathering of business leaders, creatives, diplomats, and cultural figures in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Titled Custodians of Legacy: Collecting with Purpose, the event presented private collections from Hakeem Adedeji and Ngozi Edozien. Curated by Ugoma Ebilah, the works explored themes of identity, memory, and cultural heritage. The exhibition aimed to highlight the role of collectors as stewards of history and meaning.
Ngozi Akinyele, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Coronation, said: “This exhibition is special because it reflects the full arc of the art ecosystem — spanning creation, curation, collecting, conservation, and commerce. Coronation is proud to be at its heart, using our own programming and partnerships to democratise access to art and support the growth of the creative economy in a way that’s both inclusive and enduring.”
The evening drew prominent guests, including JoEllen Gorg, Acting Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General, Lagos; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede CFR, Chairman of Coronation Group; and other key figures such as Nimi Akinkugbe, Femi Akinsanya, Nduka Obaigbena, and Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe.
Since launching in May 2022, the Coronation Art Gallery has focused on creating platforms that connect clients with culture. It continues to feature rare private collections, following its 2023 exhibition led by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, which highlighted women collectors and cultural advocates.
Jibola Odedina, CEO, Coronation Securities, added: “The Coronation Art Gallery reflects who we are and what we value. Our quarterly exhibitions remind our clients and community that legacy isn’t just what you build financially; it’s what you preserve culturally, and pass on thoughtfully.”
Adedeji shared insights into his journey as a collector: “I have been collecting Samuel Ajobiewe’s works for over 25 years. We set up Kobomoje, a residency in Ibadan, and we run programmes that support artists. We support people who do various activities within the ecosystem — not because we want anything in return — but because it gives me satisfaction that I’m supporting the whole art ecosystem.”
The exhibition encouraged reflection on the importance of cultural legacy and the value of preserving African heritage.
