Abuja: The National Gallery of Art (NGA) marked the 2025 Children's Day celebration with an art exhibition to promote national unity and cultural understanding.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event had no fewer than 600 children from various schools in attendance. The exhibition is themed 'Harmony in Diversity: Art as a Unifying Force'.
The Director-General of NGA, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi, emphasized that the theme serves as a reminder of the power of unity in diversity and the ability of art to bridge gaps that sometimes divide the nation. Sodangi, represented by the Curator of NGA, Lagos, Dr. Celestine Agoziem, highlighted art's role in creating spaces where harmony, respect, and mutual appreciation could flourish, especially among children.
Speaking to the children, Sodangi remarked, "Art speaks to our shared humanity; it transcends language, borders, and even time. Whether through painting, music, dance, or drama, art uses the universal language of emotion to foster understanding, connection, and acceptance. You, our young ones, are living proof of this vision. Through your creativity, whether you're drawing, singing, acting, or dancing, you bring to life the spirit of unity and enrich our world with new perspectives."
He noted that although the world might seem divided, art could help break barriers, explore different perspectives, and celebrate the beauty of collective experiences. Sodangi urged institutions, both public and private, to be committed to nurturing the artistic talents of children and empowering them to express themselves freely and confidently. He further encouraged the children to have compassion, empathy, and deep respect for the different cultures and experiences that make up the world.
The Curator of NGA, Lagos, Dr. Celestine Agoziem, stated that unity in diversity is a concept that acknowledges and celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. Agoziem observed that Nigeria, as a country with over 250 ethnic groups and over 500 languages, could experience challenges including ethnic tensions and misunderstandings. However, he noted that when individuals from various backgrounds and cultures come together, their differences enrich communities and make them more vibrant.
He urged the participants to continue to push artistic boundaries that bring people together, celebrate one another's differences, and promote national unity. NAN also reported that there was a showcase of various paintings from children from different schools across the state, along with cultural dances from different tribes, including Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa, displayed at the event.