NGA and SNA Pledge Stronger Partnership

The National Gallery of Art (NGA) and the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) have pledged to work together for the benefit of Nigerian artists. This was disclosed during a courtesy visit of the leadership of SNA to the NGA corporate headquarters in Abuja recently. The SNA President, Mohammed Suleiman solicited the support and partnership of NGA in carrying out its programmes slated for next year. Poised to make Nigeria an art destination, the present SNA executive has mapped out ambitious programmes. These are: African Art Summit; an annual art exhibition; publication of a definitive Art Journal and on-going efforts at establishing the Artists Registration Council among others.

Responding, the Director General of NGA, Chief Ebeten William Ivara said he is willing and ready to strengthen the existing relationship between NGA and SNA. He tasked the Society to partner with NGA in its efforts to get a befitting edifice to house the numerous works of art in its custody. “How Nigerian artists can benefit from what we do here is our concern,” he said, pledging the commitment of NGA to partner with SNA on their programmes. “SNA will also be part of our programmes,” he announced. “This is a strong bond. I’m strongly behind SNA,” he added.

The DG subsequently presented copies of the Harmonized Bill for the Repeal and Re-enactment of NGA Establishment Act and the current edition of NGA in-house magazine, Artivity to the SNA President. He requested the Society to work with NGA as the Bill moves to the National Assembly for legislative action. The Society also donated an interesting well framed painting to the Director General.

The SNA was led on the courtesy visit, the first since the inauguration of the 11th executive by its President, Mohammed Suleiman. Others in team are: Secretary General, Prosper Akeni; National Treasurer, Vera Chijioke; Chairman, SNA FCT Chapter, Aderinkonmi John Adeleye; immediate past chairman, SNA FCT Chapter, Chike Emembo and an artist and PA to the President, Queen Eno Nkantia.

Members of the NGA team are: DG, NGA, Chief Ebeten William Ivara; Director, Documentation and Monitoring, Ngozi John-Uyah; SA to the DG, Mike Ayim and DD, PR, Oji Onoko.