Ogun celebrates culture, creativity, heritage at Abeokuta Art Exhibition

Ogun State has reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion of culture, creativity and the creative economy as government officials, artists, entertainers, cultural enthusiasts and other stakeholders gathered for a spectacular cultural art exhibition in Abeokuta.

The exhibition, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, showcased the rich artistic talents, cultural heritage and creative potential of the Gateway State.

Organised through the Ogun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event featured a colourful display of artworks and other expressions of indigenous creativity.

The programme was coordinated by Mr. Ima and the Visual Arts team of the Ministry, with the support and encouragement of the Ministry’s leadership.

The exhibition attracted the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, senior government officials, artists, actors, celebrities and other distinguished guests.

The recently renovated Hall of Fame at the June 12 Cultural Centre also formed part of the broader efforts to promote artistic tourism, preserve the state’s cultural heritage and create opportunities for practitioners within the creative industry.

Members of the entertainment community, including actors and other notable personalities, were also present, highlighting the growing connection between culture, tourism, entertainment and the creative economy.

A major highlight of the event was the participation of Ambassador Deji Bakare, Convener of the Most Beautiful Girl in Ogun State (MBGO) 2026, who was invited as one of the guest speakers.

Speaking at the exhibition, Bakare expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism for their support for arts, culture and tourism initiatives across the state.

He particularly commended the Ministry’s efforts to provide platforms through which young people can showcase their talents and participate actively in the creative economy.

Bakare also highlighted the significance of the young women participating in the MBGO 2026 competition, some of whom attended the exhibition.

According to him, the contestants and queens should be seen beyond physical beauty, as they also represent Ogun State’s culture, heritage, tourism potential and aspirations for the future.

He commended the state government for creating an environment in which young people, artists, designers, performers and cultural entrepreneurs can develop their talents while contributing to the visibility and economic development of Ogun State.

The presence of the Secretary to the State Government and other senior government officials further underscored the importance attached to culture and tourism as tools for development, unity and economic growth.

Stakeholders at the event noted that Ogun State possesses significant cultural assets capable of attracting tourists, investors and international attention.

They also emphasised the economic potential of the state’s heritage sites, festivals, visual arts, creative industries and other cultural attractions.

The exhibition served as a reminder that culture is not only about preserving the past but also about creating opportunities for the future, particularly for young people and practitioners in the creative sector.

The event ended on a positive note as guests celebrated the works of Ogun artists and the renewed attention being given to the state’s cultural identity.

Ambassador Deji Bakare expressed gratitude to the Ogun State Government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Commissioner, participating artists, government officials, celebrities, members of the creative community and others who contributed to the success of the exhibition.