St. Gregory's College in Ikoyi, Lagos, inaugurated its first Gregorian Art Exhibition on Saturday at Jubilee Hall, drawing a distinguished gathering of Nigeria's cultural, political, and religious figures. Organizers described the event as the beginning of a lasting artistic tradition.
The three-day exhibition, running from April 25 to April 27, 2026, was organized by the St. Gregory's College Old Boys Association in honor of renowned artist Bruce Onobrakpeya. The theme, “Celebrating Legacy, Excellence and Continuity,” highlights the exhibition's aim to showcase creative works while preserving artistic heritage and nurturing emerging talent.
In his welcome address, former Chairman of the Old Boys Association, Dr. Michael Omolayole, commended the Executive Committee for breaking new ground in advancing the school's legacy through fine arts. He noted that the initiative would benefit alumni, current students, and the public, describing it as a significant cultural intervention. Omolayole praised Onobrakpeya's enduring influence on Nigeria's visual arts and pledged full support for the initiative.
President of the Old Boys Association, Francis Oluwole Kudayah, called the exhibition “the beginning of a cultural tradition” that will shape the college's identity for generations. He emphasized that the event reflects the school's values of excellence, discipline, and continuity. Kudayah also highlighted strategic goals, including fundraising for alumni welfare and strengthening the college endowment fund. He announced plans for a yearly art clinic to mentor emerging artists, with senior alumni as faculty, and unveiled a digital platform, the “Gregorian Art Mart,” to expand global access to artists' works and generate revenue for institutional development.
Bruce Onobrakpeya, in his vote of thanks, reflected on his decision to remain in Nigeria despite opportunities abroad, attributing it to early institutional support and national responsibility. He credited St. Gregory's College for providing an environment that enabled him to build his career locally. Onobrakpeya praised the school's culture of discipline and respect for teachers, which shaped his artistic identity. He urged institutions to continue nurturing young talent and preserving cultural values, calling for greater global recognition of Nigerian culture. He expressed hope that the institution might one day evolve into a full-fledged university while preserving its traditions.
Notable attendees included John Abebe and other figures from Nigeria's cultural and professional circles. Art enthusiasts noted the exhibition's intellectual depth and discipline, contrasting it with a growing culture of immediacy in contemporary art consumption. Organizers expressed optimism that the event will grow into a globally recognized platform for Nigerian art while preserving St. Gregory's College values.
The exhibition features works by prominent artists such as Victor Uwaifo, David Dale, Mike Omoighe, Clement Trimnell, Tony Marinho, Nse Inyang, Kwevi Quaye, Philip Trimnell, Tayo Quaye, Morgan Nwanguma, Joe Amenechi, Leonel Etta, and Abdul Razaq Garba.
