58 Distinguished Leaders Honored at 2024 CONADEV Awards, Conference, and Exhibition

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

At the 2024 CONADEV Awards, Conference, and Exhibition held in Abuja, 58 outstanding figures in the Nigerian art and creative industry were celebrated with Honorary Fellowship Awards for their remarkable contributions to art journalism and cultural development. Among the honorees was Armstrong Oke Agoreyo, a respected leader in the art and creative space, recognized for his significant role in advancing the arts and shaping Nigeria’s cultural narrative.

The event showcased the achievements of trailblazers who have championed creative innovation, mentored emerging talents, and contributed to the preservation of Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage. The gathering reaffirmed the vital role of the arts in driving cultural and economic growth, with Armstrong Oke Agoreyo being acknowledged as one of the country’s prominent voices in the arts and creative sector.
With this recognition, Armstrong joins a prestigious group of national art leaders whose work continues to inspire and influence the future of Nigeria’s creative industries.
The event brought together the creme-de-la-creme in the art and creative industry who has grown in leaps and bounds to foster growth and development in Nigeria’s creative industry.

Speaking at the event, the President, Society of Nigerian Artists, Sulaiman Muhammad stated that the event underscores the transformative role of art in shaping culture, fostering innovation, and contributing to national progress.

Muhammad noted that the theme, “Harnessing Technology: Leveraging Digital Tools for Artistic Expression and Engagement,” provides an excellent opportunity to explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in the creative space which also underscore the remarkable achievements of the recipients of various categories adding that their creativity, resilience and innovation continue to inspire enrich Nigeria’s artistic legacy.

Also speaking at the event, Vice President (North) and Chairman, Centra Working Committee Society of Nigerian Artists Dr. Aondover Gyegwe on his part noted that the theme highlights the transformative moment and technological transformation in the sector.

Gyegwe explained that technology is redefining the way we create, share and experience art presenting us with both opportunities and responsibilities adding that the conference provides a unique platform to explore these shifts fostering dialogue that will shape the future of Nigerian art.

According to Gyegwe, “The exhibition in particular reflects the seamless blending of traditional art forms with cutting-edge digital expressions inviting us to envision a harmonious coexistence between heritage and technology.

“Today also marks a moment of celebration.Through the Fellowship Awards and other recognitions,
we honour individuals whose vision, dedication, and leadership have propelled Nigerian art
forward.

“These individuals have mentored younger generations, championed creative excellence and contributed significantly to the preservation and evolution of our rich cultural legacy.

“To all our participants artists, and scholars thank you for bringing your passion and expertise to this gathering. Your presence here enriches our discussions and inspires new paths of collaboration and creativity.” he added.

The award recipients include
Prof. Manneseh Imonikebeh,
Dr. Kenneth Njoku, Sor Sen, Mark Rwang, Mrs. Patricia Nkwocha Obigeli, Ogunkunle Niyi, Porter Ajayi
and Ugherebe Godwin Uzuazoraro

Others include Awoyemi Ajibade Oladipo, Fidelis Eze Odogwu, Ola Balogun, Boma Joe-Jim, Otumba Dr. (Hon) Sonaya Idowu Adekunle,
Ato Arinze and Rowland Yohanna Goyit.