IKOYI, LAGOS STATE— The historical Jubilee Hall at St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, was transformed into a lively center of imagination on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for the inaugural Gregorian Art Exhibition.
Arranged by the St. Gregory’s College Old Boys Association (SGCOBA), the three-day occasion was kept in honour of the legendary visual artist and alumnus, Bruce Onobrakpeya.
Under the theme “Commemorating Tradition, Excellence and Connection,” the exhibit united a recognized assembly of artists, political figures, and spiritual leaders, marking what organisers intend to be the birth of a permanent component in Nigeria’s cultural calendar.
The occasion opened with high praise from Dr Michael Omolayole, former Chairman of the Old Boys Association. He explained the initiative as a “courageous effort” to deepen the institution’s 98-year legacy.
Omolayole paid a glowing tribute to Onobrakpeya, characterising him as an international pillar of visual arts whose work stays a source of motivation for younger generations.
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Digital Development and Mentorship
The President of SGCOBA, Francis Kudayah, emphasised that the exhibition is created to outlast its physical existence.
He revealed the “Gregorian Art Mart,” a digital platform focused on giving Nigerian art worldwide presence while serving as a continuous fundraising tool for the college.
Moreover, Kudayah revealed the facility of an Annual Art Clinic. This initiative will see experienced artist-alumni return to the school to coach existing trainees and young creatives, making sure the connection of the school’s creative tradition.
“This is not just an exhibition; it is the beginning of a cultural tradition that will specify who we are for generations to come,” Kudayah specified.
An Event of Masters
The exhibit included a rare collection of works from a few of Nigeria’s most popular imaginative minds. The varied display used visitors an intellectually reflective experience, contrasting the discipline of conventional heritage with modern-day contemporary trends.
Included Artists Included:
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Visual Pioneers: Bruce Onobrakpeya, Victor Uwaifo, and David Dale.
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Contemporary Voices: Mike Omoighe, Joe Amenechi, and Leonel Etta.
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The New age: Abdul Razaq Garba, Kwevi Quaye, and Nse Inyang.
In his documented vote of thanks, Bruce Onobrakpeya reviewed his choice to remain in Nigeria to construct the local art environment in spite of numerous opportunities to settle abroad.
His belief resonated with the audience, that included notable figures such as John Abebe and other cultural enthusiasts.
The exhibition concluded its opening day with a strong sense of optimism.
Organisers are confident that the Gregorian Art Exhibition will progress into a globally identified platform, protecting the place of St. Gregory’s College as not just a centre for academic excellence, but a main custodian of Nigerian artistic heritage.