On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, a high-powered delegation from the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture paid an official visit to Oshodi Arts Gallery in Ikorodu, a facility renowned for housing over 20,000 pieces of art and standing as one of the largest private art collections in Africa.
The team, led by Mr. Frank Legunsen, Deputy Director of Research at the Ministry, embarked on the inspection to evaluate the Gallery’s infrastructure, review its service delivery, and explore opportunities for collaboration in boosting Lagos State’s cultural and tourism profile.
Oshodi Arts Gallery has become a beacon of creativity and cultural preservation, attracting visitors, researchers, and art enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
With collections ranging from traditional African sculptures and paintings to contemporary works and rare cultural artifacts, the Gallery not only showcases art but also tells the story of Africa’s heritage and evolving creativity.
The visiting officials from Alausa took time to tour the expansive facility, closely examining its exhibition halls, creative workshops, and storage facilities for the artworks.
They also observed how the Gallery engages local communities, curates exhibitions, and runs empowerment initiatives for young creatives.
One of the key highlights of the visit was the introduction of 40 youths currently undergoing intensive empowerment training at the Gallery.
These trainees are being equipped with skills in painting, sculpture, textile design, and other creative arts, with the aim of turning their talents into sustainable livelihoods.
“This empowerment program is not just about teaching art — it’s about creating opportunities, fighting unemployment, and giving the younger generation a platform to shine,” Dr. Oshodi said while briefing the delegation.
The Gallery is currently undergoing a large-scale structural expansion, which is expected to be completed and commissioned in 2026.
The project aims to introduce more spacious exhibition halls, state-of-the-art preservation facilities, interactive learning spaces, and a dedicated art residency program that will host local and international artists.
The expansion will not only enhance the Gallery’s capacity to host large-scale exhibitions and cultural festivals but also position Ikorodu as a major cultural tourism hub in Lagos State.
Speaking after the inspection, Mr. Frank Legunsen praised the Gallery’s dedication to preserving art and empowering communities.
He advised the management on strategic ways to attract more international tourists, forge global partnerships, and integrate with Lagos State’s broader tourism roadmap.
“The creative industry is one of Lagos State’s most valuable assets. Institutions like Oshodi Arts Gallery are vital to our mission of making Lagos the cultural capital of Africa,” Mr. Legunsen remarked.
In response, Dr. Oshodi Seyi Paul, Founder and CEO of Oshodi Arts Gallery, expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s interest and support.
He described the visit as a motivating sign of potential government-private sector collaboration, pledging to work hand in hand with the Ministry to expand the Gallery’s reach and impact.
The inspection visit signifies Lagos State’s recognition of grassroots cultural enterprises as critical partners in developing tourism and preserving heritage.
If the anticipated partnership materializes, Oshodi Arts Gallery could see increased visibility, funding opportunities, and access to global art networks — benefits that would ripple into the local economy and community development.
Almost a decade of consistent operation, a vast African art collection, and a bold expansion plan, Oshodi Arts Gallery is poised to remain a central force in the growth of arts, culture, and tourism in Lagos State for years to come.
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