The managing director of Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s creative economy through inclusive platforms that connect artists to markets, investors and global audiences.

Mr Lawal spoke at the opening of the third edition of the +234 Art Fair 2026 held on Wednesday evening at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre in Lagos.

He described the fair as more than an exhibition, noting that it had evolved into a movement that positions Nigerian art as both cultural expression and a viable business.

Mr Lawal said the 2026 edition focuses on expanding access and opportunity for emerging and underrepresented artists while strengthening the commercial value chain around art.

According to him, Nigeria’s creative sector is vibrant and increasingly investable, adding that structured support can make it scalable, exportable and a major source of jobs for young people.

The managing director said that inclusivity for the bank meant opening more doors for young artists, giving greater visibility to underrepresented voices and creating stronger links between art and enterprise.

He added that the fair, organised in partnership with Soto Gallery, reflected a shared belief that African creativity deserved strong institutions and long-term backing.

Mr Lawal also acknowledged the support of lead partners, including the Africa Finance Corporation, for backing not only physical infrastructure but also the cultural infrastructure that shapes Africa’s global influence.

The fair features curated exhibitions by emerging and established artists, masterclasses, live installations, panel sessions linking finance and the arts, a children’s creative zone, a collectors’ lounge and curated culinary experiences.

Also, the director-general of the National Arts Theatre, Tola Akerele, described the fair as a platform that bridges creativity and commerce while expanding access to new voices.

She said this year’s theme underscored the need to deliberately reach out to artists beyond established networks and to create opportunities for wider participation.

Ms Akerele noted that the fair provides an avenue for artists to engage directly with collectors, investors and the public, encouraging dialogue and feedback that can shape careers.

The +234 Art Fair runs for four days and is expected to attract artists, collectors, investors and members of the public from across Nigeria and beyond.

(NAN)