In commemoration of 50 years of artistic collaborations between the United States and Nigeria, the U.S. Mission has honoured three legendary Nigerian artists, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, and Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya with the U.S. Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award.?
The award recognised the iconic artists, who first travelled to the United States over 50 years ago, as participants of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program.
The ceremony gathered a distinguished audience, including political and business leaders, diplomats, academic figures, arts curators and collectors, as well as alumni of various U.S. government exchange programmes.
U.S. Ambassador, Richard Mills presented each of the artists with a commemorative certificate, honouring their exceptional commitment to their artistic craft, dedicated mentorship of emerging creatives, and invaluable contributions that have strengthened the bonds between the people of the United States and Nigeria.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mills noted that the U.S. government is committed to supporting programmes and initiatives that nurture cultural exchange, promote artistic expression, preserve cultural heritage, and strengthen the capacity of Nigerian artists and professionals across the creative industries. He highlighted the role of U.S. government exchange programme alumni in having a positive impact on their communities in many fields, including the creative economy.
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