Sanwo-Olu, Zulum Lead Fundraiser for IDPs Through Arts Exhibition

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Borno State counterpart, Babagana Zulum, are set to lead a transformative arts exhibition aimed at bringing about social change and raising crucial funds for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

This unprecedented event, titled “Art For A Cause,” is the brainchild of young Nigerian entrepreneur Olasubomi Fagbewesa, who is determined to use art as a catalyst for positive societal impact.

Scheduled to take place at the prestigious The Art Hotel on Yesufu Abiodun, Oniru Way, Victoria Island, Lagos, from December 10 to 15, the exhibition promises not only a display of captivating artworks but also a powerful vehicle for addressing the plight of IDPs across Nigeria.

Fagbewesa, a director at The Creative Handlers Company, envisions Art For A Cause as more than just an exhibition; “it’s a movement leveraging the power of creativity to effect change.”

She emphasizes the dire circumstances faced by families in IDP camps, particularly in Borno, Benue, and other states in the North-east, North-central, and North-west regions.

The alarming statistics provided by Fagbewesa, quoting a February 2023 report, reveal a staggering 2,388,703 IDPs in 488,163 households, and 2,110,039 returnees in 346,166 households. According to her, there are over one million people displaced by insurgencies living in about 290 IDPs across Nigeria. These figures emphasize the urgency of addressing this crisis.

The exhibition aims to raise funds from individuals, corporations, and government agencies to support national and sub-national initiatives providing essential services such as medical care, food, and other basic necessities to those affected, particularly vulnerable women and children.

Renowned Nigerian artists, including Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo, Prof. Mike Winter, Greg Onyeka, and Dotun Makun, will contribute their valuable artworks to the exhibition. Part of the proceeds from the sale of these artworks will be dedicated to supporting IDPs in Borno, with plans for additional exhibitions and fundraising activities in the coming year.