In celebration of 50 years of artistic collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, three legendary Nigerian artists—Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, and Prof. Bruce Onobrakpeya—were honored with the prestigious U.S. Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award.
This award, presented by U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills, recognizes their remarkable contributions to art and culture, which began with their participation in the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP) over five decades ago.
The U.S. Mission issued a statement applauding the artists’ dedication to their craft, mentorship of emerging creatives, and enduring impact on fostering bonds between Nigeria and the U.S. Each honoree received a commemorative certificate as a tribute to their invaluable influence in both countries’ artistic landscapes.
During the award presentation, Ambassador Mills emphasized the U.S. government’s commitment to cultural exchange programs that empower Nigerian artists and enrich the creative industries.
He highlighted the significant role of U.S. government exchange alumni in positively impacting their communities, particularly within the creative economy.
“Art has the power to connect people and communities across the world.
“This is why we supported these programmes 50 years ago, we support them now, and we will continue supporting them far into the future,” said Mills.
Chief Davies-Okundaye who has mentored students worldwide in the traditional art of adire and batik, said participating in the exchange programme significantly impacted her life, opened up new opportunities and perspectives that shaped her career path and personal growth.
“I am very happy to see this day,” awardee and celebrated bead painter, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, said of the recognition.
“Going to the U.S. on an exchange program 50 years ago in 1974, was truly transformative, giving me an opportunity to share my work widely and mentor the next generation of artists.”
Chief Buraimoh’s artwork has been exhibited globally, and he has taught at prestigious institutions, including the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Maine and universities in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles.
At 92, Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya continues to be a towering figure in the Nigerian visual art scene, working across painting, printmaking, installation, and sculpture. He noted that the award recognition is a challenge to up-and-coming artists to remain dedicated to their craft.
“I am very excited and encouraged. I will continue to pay it forward by nurturing future talent in the industry,” he added. Notable as the illustrator for Chinua Achebe’s No Longer at Ease, Professor Onobrakpeya has exhibited globally, including the current exhibition “The Mask and the Sword” at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC, and remains one of West Africa’s most celebrated 20th century artists.
The ceremony brought together a distinguished audience, including political and business leaders, diplomats, academic figures, arts curators and collectors, as well as alumni of various U.S. government exchange programmes.
It highlighted the historic people-to-people connections in the visual arts between both countries, as well as the 50-year Sister Cities partnership between Lagos and Atlanta.
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