Over 260 Young Artists Poised to Showcase Talent as Africa’s Creative Economy Gains Momentum
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, is doubling down on its commitment to Africa’s creative economy by partnering with Ecobank Nigeria, Soto Gallery, and Craneburg Construction for the second edition of the +234Art Fair. This high-profile event, running from March 27 to March 31 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Lagos, will bring together emerging and un-galleried artists to showcase Africa’s next wave of artistic talent.
With more than 260 young artists expressing interest in exhibiting their work, the fair—titled “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art”—seeks to elevate African art while challenging the traditional barriers that limit market access for young creatives.
Corporate Powerhouses Betting on Africa’s Creative Industry
Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC, framed the event as part of a broader strategy to turn Africa’s cultural assets into economic drivers:
“The +234Art Fair aligns with AFC’s mission of empowering Africa’s youth, fostering job creation, and unlocking new economic frontiers. By investing in Africa’s creative industry, we are not just supporting art—we are catalyzing an industry that has the potential to generate billions in revenue, create sustainable jobs, and amplify Africa’s cultural influence globally.”
Similarly, Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, emphasized the financial sector’s role in developing the creative economy:
“As a Pan-African bank, we see immense value in supporting initiatives like the +234Art Fair. It’s not just about art—it’s about investing in Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural pioneers. This platform gives young artists direct access to collectors, investors, and decision-makers who can accelerate their careers.”
Beyond Art: A New Model for Africa’s Creative Patronage
Unlike traditional art fairs that cater exclusively to established artists, the +234Art Fair is redefining artistic patronage. Tola Akerele, Founder of the +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, noted that the initiative is about more than financial sponsorship—it’s about fostering long-term relationships that sustain artists.
“True patronage in the art world isn’t just about buying a piece of work—it’s about mentoring artists, opening up opportunities, and ensuring they can build sustainable careers. This year’s fair will explore how deep, meaningful support can transform an artist’s journey and the broader art ecosystem.”
What to Expect: Art, Networking, and Game-Changing Conversations
This five-day immersive experience will feature a dynamic mix of paintings, sculptures, visual and digital art, and large-scale installations. Additionally, visitors can engage in interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to bridge the gap between art, business, and policy-making.
The event is expected to attract a diverse audience, including government officials, policymakers, diplomats, collectors, investors, and international art enthusiasts—positioning it as a critical hub for Africa’s creative economy.
East Africa’s Takeaway: Can This Model Be Replicated?
While Nigeria is making bold moves in the creative sector, the question remains: Can East Africa match this momentum? Countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania have burgeoning creative industries, but lack structured platforms like the +234Art Fair.
With AFC and Ecobank’s growing footprint across the region, could this be a stepping stone to similar East African art fairs? Would Ugandan and Kenyan banks step up to finance the creative economy in the same way? These are the conversations that need to happen if Africa’s cultural capital is to translate into real economic power.