Abuja Hosts Pakistan-Nigeria Art FusionAbuja

The Pakistani High Commissioner to Nigeria, Retired Maj.- Gen. Sohail Khan, said that Art has the power to foster cross-cultural understanding, promote peace-building, and showcase rich artistic heritage.

Khan said this at the Inaugural Art Exhibition tagged “New Gate”,withh the theme: Unlocking Creative Frontiers to Build an Enduring Bond between Pakistan and Nigeria.

The event, which took place on Saturday night at the High Commission of Pakistan, was in collaboration with Ms Anila Adnan’s Art Addiction Gallery.

It featured the works of Adnan, a celebrated Pakistani curator and artist, andthoset of other Nigerian artists.

Khan said that the exhibition was a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Nigeria, and urged all attendees to embrace the artistic dialogue.

He said that the unveiling of “New Gate” and “unlocking creative frontiers” was a radiant celebration othe f shared soul of Pakistan and Nigeria.

“Today, we gather not just to admire art but to witness a vibrant tapestry woven from the colours, stories, and dreams of our great nations.

“Under the visionary curation of Adnan, alongside our gifted Nigerian artists, this exhibition opens a new gate, a portal of creativity where Pakistan’s rich heritage dances with Nigeria’s dynamic spirit.

“Each brushstroke tells a story of resilience, diversity, and unity, inviting us all to dream boldly and connect deeply.

“To our diplomatic community, your presence strengthens the bridges we build through cultur,e” he said.

According to him, the presence of the Nigerian and Pakistani communities strengthens bridges built through culture.

“You are the heartbeat of this momet , embodying the harmony we celebrate. Art is our universal language, sparking joy, understanding, and hope for a shared future.

“My deepest gratitude goes to Adnan, our talented artists, and the dedicated team who brought this vision to life,’’ he said.

Adnan lauded the high commission’s support in making the inaugural art exhibition a reality.

According to her, artists are free-spirited people who require no boundaries to express themselves.

“The high commissioner and the entire Pakistani community and the people of Nigeria gave us the platform to express ourselves freely without boundaries,’’ she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, a Nigerian culture enthusiast well known for her Batik and Adire art works ,graced the exhibition as the Chief guest.

She said that the exhibition had the spirit of cultural fusion and artistic excellence.

Nigerian artists who featured at the exhibition were: Ojemekele Ighodalo, Dr Ngozi Akande, Kent Onah, Judith Yayha, and Nelly Salubi.

They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take part in the exhibition.

The high point of the evening was an electrifying performance by the Wazobia Dance troops, whosecolorfull and electrifying display of traditional Nigerian folk beats and dances thrilled and entertained the audience.

The rhythms and cultural expression captured the essence of the evening’s theme, unity through the arts.

Also, the exhibition attracted members of the diplomatic community, art enthusiasts, and representatives from the Nigerian and Pakistani communities.

The exhibition will remain open to the public until July 2nd at the High Commission of Pakistan. (NAN)