Lagos, Nigeria – January 31, 2025
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the Nigerian art industry, Dr. Oshodi Seyi Paul has been honoured at the African Humanitarian Awards 2025 for his outstanding efforts in nurturing young talents and revolutionizing the creative landscape.
As a celebrated artist, educator, and philanthropist, Dr. Oshodi has played a pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem through his work at the Oshodi Art Gallery and the Oshodi Arts and Culture Gallery Foundation.
The founder of the African Humanitarian Awards, Mr. Akinyemi Samuel highlighted Dr. Oshodi’s lasting impact, stating, “Dr. Oshodi has created a dynamic ecosystem that fosters innovation, preserves cultural heritage, and inspires a new generation of artists to push the boundaries of their imagination.”
Dr. Oshodi’s foundation has emerged as a beacon of hope for young artists across Nigeria.
Established in 2020, the Oshodi Arts and Culture Gallery Foundation has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing budding talents while educating parents about the immense value of creative arts.
“After nurturing these young talents, we strategically connect them to opportunities in the creative industry. We maintain a network of advertising agencies, studios, galleries, and private collectors who regularly commission art pieces,” Dr. Oshodi explained.
“This approach provides our trained students with real-world projects, ensuring they are compensated for their work while building professional portfolios.”
The foundation’s flagship programs, including the Nigeria Art and Cultural Festival, Miss Art Nigeria, and the Children of the Throne Workshop, have created platforms for cultural exchange and deeper artistic engagement.
These initiatives bring together kingdom leaders and industry stakeholders, fostering collaboration and understanding through art.
Dr. Oshodi’s scouting process begins at the grassroots level, identifying young artists in primary and secondary schools through teachers and referrals from parents who visit the gallery.
Once identified, these students receive free comprehensive training in various disciplines such as ceramics, sculpture, textile design, photography, animation, dance, and choreography.
Since the foundation’s inception, over 500 young artists have been empowered, many of whom have successfully transitioned into the professional art space.
Dr. Oshodi proudly shared that more than 40 trained artists are currently working directly with the gallery, receiving regular commissions and building sustainable careers.
“Our gallery also plays a crucial role in promoting our students’ work,” he added.
“We acquire and showcase their art, sell it to our clients, and ensure that our students receive fair compensation. This not only provides financial support but also helps them gain recognition and confidence in their craft.”
Dr. Oshodi has developed a sustainable funding model for his initiatives, where the gallery initially sponsors programs before inviting like-minded organizations and philanthropists to contribute.
This collaborative approach has garnered widespread community support, ensuring the continuity and expansion of these life-changing programs.
As Dr. Oshodi receives the African Humanitarian Award 2025, his impact on Nigeria’s art scene remains undeniable.
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