Lagos, Nigeria – The formal opening of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists’ (GFA) first gallery, The GFA Gallery, took place on the 17th of November 2019, located in the heart of Lekki, Lagos. The event was privileged to welcome Nigeria’s Minister of Information and culture, Lai Mohammed.

From L-R: GFA Trustee Chief Ede Dafinone, Patron & Artist Kolade Oshinowo, Minister of Information, Arts & Culture Lai Mohammed, GFA Director & Curator Ugonna Ibe-Ejiogu, GFA President Sam Ebohon, GFA Secretary Norbert Okpu

Speaking on the formal opening, the Director of the GFA, Ugonna Ibe-Ejiogu stated:

“It was an honor and a pleasure to welcome the minister, he was patient as he toured the gallery space, viewing each work and speaking with all the artists present. He also devoted a considerable amount of time to engage with one of our Trustees, Chief Ede Dafinone, art patron and respected artist, Mr. Kolade Oshinowo and GFA president Mr. Sam Ebohon, and address questions and concerns about governmental support of the arts in Nigeria”.

**Lai Mohammed, Kolade Oshinowo & Sam Ebohon**

It’s a new dawn for the Guild, a dawn that sees the successful opening of the guild’s first gallery open its doors to a new generation of artists. “With over 10 years under its belt, the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria is reasserting its relevance as it becomes a more active part of the art ecosystem and seeks to curate a new experience that matches the excitement that African art is generating”, says Ibe-Ejiogu.

While the GFA Gallery will be a permanent home for the works of the members, the space will serve the art community at large by hosting third party exhibitions, talks, workshops, art classes and so much more. The President, Sam Ebohon, expressed his excitement for the future of the GFA and also acknowledged members who live across Nigeria, saying “Guild activities will not be limited to Lagos, you can expect to feel the GFA’s presence all over Nigeria.”

Other guests in attendance included art collectors, artists and art lovers.

Board of Trustees: Mr Yinka Fisher (Chairman), Ms Ifeoma Idigbe, Chief Ede Dafinone

Sponsors: The Aristokrat Group

For more information:

Website: www.gfanigeria.org

Email: info@gfanigeria.org

Instagram: @gfa_nigeria

Twitter: @gfa_nigeria

Facebook: www.facebook.com/gfagallerynigeria