Nigeria’s Artistic Awakening: From the Equestrian Splendour of the North to the Avant-Garde Galleries of Lagos

 Photo Courtesy: Blessfield John

LAGOS & KANO, Nigeria — This March, Nigeria is asserting its position as Africa’s ultimate cultural powerhouse. The nation is currently playing host to a rare convergence of centuries-old royal traditions and the cutting edge of the global contemporary art market, drawing thousands of tourists, collectors, and historians to its bustling cities.

​The Grand Tradition: The Durbar Festival (March 18–26)

​In the northern ancient cities of Kano, Dutse, and Zaria, preparations are reaching a fever pitch for the Durbar Festival. This 14th-century tradition, originally a showcase of military parade and loyalty to the Emir, has evolved into the world’s most spectacular equestrian display.

​The festival features thousands of riders clad in vibrant, multi-layered turbans and regal robes, mounted on horses draped in gold-stitched velvet and silver ornaments. The climax of the event, the Hauan Daushe, will see the Emir lead a majestic procession through the city gates, accompanied by the thunderous sounds of kakaki (long trumpets) and traditional drummers.

​Modern Visions: The +234Art Fair (March 5–8)

​While the North honors the past, the South is defining the future. Opening this week at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos, the third edition of the +234Art Fair is set to welcome the global art elite.

​Under the theme “Inclusivity,” this year’s fair is a massive undertaking, showcasing over 200 emerging Nigerian artists. By providing a platform for voices often sidelined by the traditional gallery circuit—including self-taught artists and those from underrepresented regions—the fair has become a critical scouting ground for international curators.

​Fair Highlights:

​The “New Gen” Pavilion: Dedicated to digital art and NFTs exploring Nigerian folklore.

​Live Workshops: Renowned masters hosting sessions on traditional bronze casting vs. 3D printing.

​Curated Salon: An intimate space for collectors to discuss the “African Art Boom” with industry experts.

​The Grand Finale: Nigerian Foods & Culture Festival (March 29)

​The month-long cultural celebration will culminate in a sensory explosion at Muri-Okunola Park, Lagos. On March 29, the Nigerian Foods & Culture Festival will bring the entire Federation together in one space.

​Representing all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the festival is a culinary map of the nation. Attendees can expect:

​The Jollof War Arena: A friendly (but fierce) cook-off between regional chefs.

​Tribal Pavilions: Featuring the distinct music, attire, and dance of the Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa-Fulani, Ijaw, and Tiv peoples.

​The Spice Market: An artisanal market featuring rare indigenous ingredients from the Mambilla Plateau to the Niger Delta.

Event Location Dates Vibe

+234Art Fair Lagos (EPAC) March 5–8 Sophisticated / Contemporary

Durbar Festival Kano/Dutse/Zaria March 18–26 Royal / High-Energy

Food & Culture Fest Lagos (Muri-Okunola)