The celebration of artistic excellence took centre stage as the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) honoured 60 outstanding contributors to Nigerian art at the 8th International Conference on Art and Development (CONADEV 2025), held at the Wings Complex, Oando Towers, Lagos.
The conference, themed, Creative Economy and Cultural Sustainability: Reimagining Art for Development, honoured practitioners across multiple categories, highlighting the works of veteran artists, emerging talents, patrons, institutions and professional associations.
Former President of the society, Mr. Kolade Oshinowo received the Meritorious Service Award for his distinguished leadership and commitment to artistic advancement, while foremost collector and philanthropist, Omooba Engr. Yemisi Shyllon was honoured with the African Legacy Art Award for his decades of advocacy and investment in the preservation and propagation of Nigerian art.
One of the most inspiring honourees was 15-year-old Guinness World Record breaker, Kanyechukwu Tagbo-Okeke, recognised as “Outstanding Young Artist of the Year,” for his record-setting 12,303.87 square-metre canvas painting, a remarkable achievement that surpassed the previous global record.
National President of SNA, Muhammed Suleiman, said that the honours were meant to recognise exemplary impact.
“These awards are for our past presidents, individuals promoting art independently through galleries and museums, as well as institutions supporting the sector. Kanyechukwu inspired the nation by breaking a Guinness World Record, and we want young Nigerians to know that artistic excellence is seen and rewarded,” he said.
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Describing art as an essential seed of national socio-economic advancement, he noted that art drives every aspect of the economy, fashion, design, technology, even artificial intelligence. “The core of AI is creative imagination. Parents must encourage children to embrace creativity. Art is the future,” he added.
Renowned art collector, Omooba Yemisi Shyllon who expressed gratitude for the award, reflected on his legacy of artistic support.
“I do not know what I did to deserve this award, but I am deeply honoured. I solely funded the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art by selling several properties abroad and at home. I am happy because it is impacting lives,” he said.
He revealed that the museum continues to train and empower creatives, including an officer currently on an 18–month residency at the Toledo Museum in Ohio, United States.
He disclosed plans to unveil a life-size bronze statue of Chief Obafemi Awolowo at OAU, Ile-Ife and sponsorship of a new Guinness World Record attempt for the world’s longest single painting. “I believe wealth is meant to serve humanity. Happiness is in giving, not receiving,” he said.
Chairman Central Working Committee and SNA Vice President (North), Dr Aondover Gyeawe, described CONADEV as a celebration of artistic influence and intellectual labour.
“Tonight, we celebrate dedication and impact. CONADEV is not only about ideas, but about recognising those shaping our cultural identity through resilience and creativity,” he said.
Beyond individuals, the Society also honoured institutions such as Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, for strengthening art education.
International organisations honoured included Alliance Française, Goethe Institut, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, and the Spanish Embassy for supporting cultural development and creative exchange.
Professional bodies such as the Sculptors Association of Nigeria and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria were acknowledged alongside galleries such as Shaky’s Art Gallery in Awka and Herwa Heart of Art Initiative in Kano.
Veteran artist John Amanam emerged as Distinguished Artist of the Year. Notable personalities conferred Fellowship status for their enduring contributions to art development included scholars, practitioners, and cultural advocates across the nation.
Past presidents including Prof Osa Egonwa, Prof Funke Ifeta, Kolade Oshinowo, Dele Jegede, and Oliver Enwonwu also received the Meritorious Service Award. Honorary Fellowships were presented to Adewole Tinubu, Alhaji Tashiu Sodangi, Dr Hassan Nasir Aliyu, Rukayat Yusuf and Aliyu Sadiq Ahmed.
The ceremony formed part of CONADEV 2025’s activities, which brought together artists, academics, curators, cultural leaders, and stakeholders to reflect on the place of art in economic growth and cultural sustainability.
