04/06/2025
NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART, FCT OUTSTATION 2025 CHILDREN'S DAY CELEBRATION/ART EXHIBITION.
DATE OF EVENT: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
VENUE: FCT Exhibition Pavilion opposite Radio House, beside
International Conference Centre CBD Abuja.
THEME: "Creativity in the Eyes of the Nigerian Child from "Waste to Wealth"
National Gallery of Art FCT Outstation successfully hosted its annual Children's Day Celebration and Art Exhibition.
The event brought together over 500 children, parents, educators, partners, NGA management and staff to celebrate the unique spirit of childhood, promote creative expression, and advocate for children's well-being in line with the national commemoration of Children's Day in Nigeria.
The celebration commenced promptly at 11am with a National anthem and the welcome address was given by the Curator, National Gallery of Art FCT-Abuja, Mrs Dorothy Patrick, who encouraged the children and emphasised that the 2025 theme is very special because we are in a world that throws so much away, the children have the power to change the story, to turn waste into something useful, beautiful and valuable. Most importantly, they should keep creating and believing because the power to build a cleaner and richer Nigeria is in their hands.
Insightful addresses from three distinguished speakers: Mrs Ekene Okoroma, who represented the Director General of the Gallery of Art, and Mr Ahmed Sodangi, who believes in nurturing young talents because, according to him, art is not just about painting or drawing but it is about thinking differently, solving problems and expressing ideas. He also urged their parents and teachers to support children in exploring their artistic abilities.
Furthermore, Professor Samson Duna, the father of the day, was represented by Chief Dan Makava, the Director of Consultancy and Extension Service, Department of Nigeria Building and Road Research Institute NBRRI and Mrs Grace Jotha, who serves as the mother of the day also emphasised the critical role of creative expression in holistic child development, highlighting how art fosters problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and self-confidence. They appealed to all stakeholders, government, parents, communities, and individuals to prioritise skills acquisition and artistic development, stressing that the future of the nation hinges on the well-being and development of its children.
The Children participated in a variety of dance competitions by the Great God Academy dance group and a traditional troupe led by the Iddo Sariki dance group.
Prizes were awarded to winners and certificates of participation to encourage healthy competition among the participants.
The children enjoyed a variety of foods and beverages by our sponsors ensuring sustained energy and comfort.
The event not only provided a platform for children to enjoy themselves and showcase their talents but also raised important awareness regarding child talent and creative development.
The art exhibition, in particular, demonstrated the profound creative potential of resident in our young population, reinforcing the need for continuous support and investment in their artistic and intellectual growth.
Mrs Eucharia Nwanna, the HOD of Human Resources, through her vote of thanks, extends its gratitude to all the school participants, sponsors, partners, NGA management and staff, who contributed to making the 2025 Children's Day Celebration and Art Exhibition a memorable and impactful occasion. NGA FCT remains committed to championing the cause of children's creativity development, looking forward to even grander celebrations in the years to come.
Written By:
Head of Media Committee:
Onuchukwu Nkolika Assumpta
Supported by:
Faith Andrew
Pictures by: Modupe Idahosa
May 27th, 2025
