‘Naija Day’, 1851 Agidingbi and other art shows in Nigeria this week

This week is going to be one of the busiest weeks in October. As explained in this dispatch, most of the events are happening in Lagos and Abuja, which is quickly establishing itself as an authentic creativity hub. Here are the events you should keep an eye on and attend if you can find the time.

UVA celebrates Naija Day

On 28 October, Unchained Vibes Africa (UVA) will be hosting the 7th in its series of periodic gatherings “geared towards promoting artistic expressions for civic engagements.

Themed ‘Naija Day’, this event will celebrate Nigeria’s diverse heritage. “We encourage everyone to dress in their best Nigerian attire,” the invite sent out reads. “Whether you’re wearing a traditional buba and gele, a colorful Ankara dress, or a traditional chief’s outfit, we want to see your best Naija-inspired look.”

The event is inspired by Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, which organisers note has been criticised as the most divisive since the country’s return to democratic governance 24 years ago, in 1999.

According to a statement by UVA, “desperate politicians exploited Nigeria’s diversity negatively and weaponized ethnicity in a bid to win elections. As a result, ethnic division has widened and mutual suspicion has worsened among Nigerians.”

The format for ‘Naija Day’ is one that “celebrates the richness of Nigeria’s diverse cultures, the importance of intercultural…