Ecobank, Yaba Tech Art Exhibition launch Lagos Pop-Up Museum
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Lagos Pop-Up Museum, a dynamic cultural collaboration between Ecobank Nigeria and the Yaba Art Museum of Yaba College of Technology, officially opened its doors, offering Lagosians a vibrant space for art, creativity, and community engagement.
During a press conference on Tuesday at the Ecobank headquarters in Lagos, the Head of SMEs, Partnerships & Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, Omoboye Odu who spoke on behalf of the Management and Staff of Ecobank Nigeria, described the museum as “a living, breathing cultural experience designed to engage everyone from art lovers to curious minds,” and highlighted the event’s programming set to run through February 10, 2026, with exhibitions, workshops, performances, and artist talks.
She emphasised Ecobank’s commitment to Pan-African heritage and youth development stating, “At Ecobank, we believe art and culture aren’t ‘nice-to-haves’; they’re powerful forces for unity, innovation, and economic growth. Or as we like to say, art is an investment with better colours!”
Dr Adeola Balogun, Arts Organizing Co-Ordinator and Trustee, at Yaba Art Museum College of Technology, underscored the importance of public engagement with art.
“At this stage, it’s time to serve it. It’s time to present to the public, one of the things my Rector is passionate about is the connection and we must collaborate,” said Balogun.
He also applauded the collaboration with Ecobank, noting ongoing adoption programs aimed at supporting students, especially those at risk of dropping out due to financial challenges.
In her remark, the Curatorial Director at Yaba Art Museum, Dr Odun Orimolade, reflected on the museum’s evolving role connecting arts and cultural heritage: “We try to help with research things we need to unlearn, things we need to relearn, to understand who we are.”
She highlighted educational goals to reconnect youth with their history and cultural identity, stressing the importance of restitution and reparation not just as physical return but as restoration of knowledge.
Among Lagos Pop-Up Museum’s standout offerings is the Adoption Hall, a platform dedicated to supporting students from Yaba College of Technology through micro-philanthropy initiatives.
Visitors can also explore the exhibition, which centers on cultural restitution, shedding light on the importance of reclaiming and celebrating heritage.
Another highlight is the FESTAC77@50 archival experience titled “Drum Up,” commemorating the historic FESTAC 77 festival.
Environmental awareness takes center stage with “Deep Blue,” a dialogue-focused section aimed at promoting consciousness about water and environmental issues. Adding to the vibrancy of the museum is Mutating Space, a creative ecosystem that seamlessly blends arts, innovation, and community activities to foster collaboration and creativity.
The organisers invite the public to experience the museum’s displays and educational programs, celebrating creativity as a catalyst for social change and cultural affirmation.
