By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The ongoing +234Art Fair taking place in Lagos has continued to attract several art enthusiasts from across the country and one of the backers of the festival, Ecobank Nigeria, has explained why it threw weight behind it.
In a statement made available to Business Post, the financial institution disclosed that it supported the programme organised by Soto Gallery because it felt it was necessary to provide a platform for un-galleried emerging Nigerian artists to showcase their talents.
It further said the fair, which also has the support of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), aligns with its policy of promoting the creative industry in the country and African continent.
“Our objective at Ecobank is to project Nigerian creatives by highlighting their talents and providing a platform as well as opportunities for them to showcase their works locally and globally.
“The creative industry is an essential driver of economic growth, well-being, and global connectivity.
“We will continue to invest in the potentials of our young people for a brighter future for Nigeria as a country,” the lender said in the statement issued on Saturday.
The +234Art Fair is an international art exhibition dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the growing art industry in Nigeria by providing a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the local art sector and giving it international recognition.
It is precisely taking place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Island, Lagos, and will end on Sunday, March 31, 2024.
Adedapo Adesanya 
Aduragbemi Omiyale