By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
A new chapter in Nigeria’s cultural diplomacy unfolded on Thursday as researchers from the Guest Artist Space (GAS) Foundation paid a working visit to the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC) in Lagos, exploring opportunities for collaboration in research, exhibitions, and artist development.
The visiting delegation, described as a “pilgrimage of curiosity and collaboration,” was received by CBAAC’s Director-General, Hon. Aisha Adamu Augie, and senior management. The tour took the GAS team through CBAAC’s expansive museum, archives, audiovisual library, and publication department — a journey that offered a vivid glimpse into the continent’s rich creative and cultural legacy.
Guided by Mr. Adesegun Jubril Dosumu, Deputy Director of Research and Publication, the visitors interacted with priceless artefacts chronicling Africa’s artistic evolution. According to the GAS team, the experience was both humbling and inspiring.
“We were impressed by CBAAC’s dedication to safeguarding Africa’s cultural treasures and its vibrant research environment,” said Neman Hassan, a GAS researcher. “The centre is a living laboratory for scholars and artists alike.”
The meeting quickly evolved into a dialogue on partnership. Both institutions agreed to explore frameworks for joint workshops, co-curated exhibitions, artist exchange programmes, and collaborative research projects, aimed at expanding the frontiers of African art scholarship.
Hon. Aisha Adamu Augie reaffirmed CBAAC’s readiness to welcome GAS scholars, noting that the collaboration aligns with the Centre’s mandate to promote cultural education and nurture emerging creative voices.
“CBAAC remains committed to partnerships that amplify African narratives globally,” she said. “Our doors are always open to institutions that share our vision of preserving and projecting the continent’s heritage.”
The visit underscores the growing synergy between Nigeria’s cultural institutions and contemporary art initiatives, positioning both CBAAC and the GAS Foundation as key players in safeguarding Africa’s past while shaping its creative future.