IKOYI, LAGOS STATE— The historical Jubilee Hall at St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, was transformed into a lively center of creativity on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for the inaugural Gregorian Art Exhibit.
Organised by the St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association (SGCOBA), the three-day occasion was held in honour of the legendary visual artist and alumnus, Bruce Onobrakpeya.
Under the style “Celebrating Legacy, Quality and Continuity,” the exhibition united a prominent assembly of artists, political figures, and religious leaders, marking what organisers intend to be the birth of an irreversible fixture in Nigeria’s cultural calendar.
The occasion opened with high appreciation from Dr Michael Omolayole, previous Chairman of the Old Boys Association. He explained the effort as a “bold effort” to deepen the institution’s 98-year legacy.
Omolayole paid a glowing homage to Onobrakpeya, characterising him as an international pillar of visual arts whose work stays a source of inspiration for more youthful generations.
Read likewise: Greenhouse victories at Lillyland schools’ maiden inter-house sports competitors.
Digital Development and Mentorship
The President of SGCOBA, Francis Kudayah, stressed that the exhibit is created to outlast its physical existence.
He revealed the “Gregorian Art Mart,” a digital platform focused on providing Nigerian art international presence while working as a constant fundraising tool for the college.
In addition, Kudayah revealed the establishment of a Yearly Art Clinic. This initiative will see experienced artist-alumni go back to the school to coach current trainees and young creatives, making sure the continuity of the school’s artistic tradition.
“This is not just an exhibition; it is the start of a cultural tradition that will define who we are for generations to come,” Kudayah specified.
A Gathering of Masters
The exhibit featured an uncommon collection of works from a few of Nigeria’s most celebrated creative minds. The varied display used visitors an intellectually reflective experience, contrasting the discipline of conventional heritage with modern contemporary trends.
Featured Artists Consisted Of:
-
Visual Pioneers: Bruce Onobrakpeya, Victor Uwaifo, and David Dale.
-
Contemporary Voices: Mike Omoighe, Joe Amenechi, and Leonel Etta.
-
The New age: Abdul Razaq Garba, Kwevi Quaye, and Nse Inyang.
In his documented vote of thanks, Bruce Onobrakpeya assessed his choice to remain in Nigeria to construct the regional art ecosystem regardless of many opportunities to settle abroad.
His sentiment resonated with the audience, that included noteworthy figures such as John Abebe and other cultural lovers.
The exhibition concluded its opening day with a strong sense of optimism.
Organisers are confident that the Gregorian Art Exhibit will develop into an internationally identified platform, securing the location of St. Gregory’s College as not simply a centre for scholastic excellence, however a main custodian of Nigerian artistic heritage.