In a grand commemoration of five decades of artistic collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, three legendary Nigerian artists, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, and Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya have been honored with the prestigious U.S. Exchange Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award.
The award ceremony, led by U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, recognized their remarkable contributions to art and culture, dating back to their initial journey to the U.S. over 50 years ago under the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP).
The U.S. Mission in Nigeria issued a statement highlighting the significance of the award, acknowledging the trio’s exceptional artistry, mentorship of young creatives, and invaluable contributions to strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United States.
Each honoree received a commemorative certificate, marking their lifetime achievements and enduring impact on both nations’ cultural landscapes.
Ambassador Mills emphasized the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to fostering cultural exchange, artistic expression, and preservation of cultural heritage, noting that U.S. exchange alumni often play pivotal roles in uplifting their communities.
“Art has the power to connect people and communities across the world,” Mills remarked. “This is why we supported these programs 50 years ago, we support them now, and we will continue supporting them far into the future.”
Among the recipients, Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, renowned for her expertise in adire and batik, reflected on how the exchange program shaped her career and broadened her horizons. “It opened new opportunities and perspectives that guided my journey,” .
Chief Jimoh Buraimoh, a celebrated bead painter whose work has been exhibited worldwide, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition. He described his 1974 exchange trip to the U.S. as transformative, allowing him to share his art on a global scale and mentor emerging talent.
At 92, Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s visual arts scene, with a prolific body of work spanning painting, printmaking, installation, and sculpture. Reflecting on the award, he noted it as a challenge for younger artists to persevere in their craft. “I will continue to pay it forward by nurturing future talent,” he pledged.
Onobrakpeya, who famously illustrated Chinua Achebe’s No Longer at Ease, has exhibited globally, with notable showcases such as “The Mask and the Sword” at the Smithsonian in Washington, DC.
The award ceremony attracted a distinguished audience, including political and business leaders, diplomats, academics, art curators, collectors, and alumni of various U.S. government exchange programs.
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