A Celebration of Art and Culture in Ibadan
The 7th Young Artists Art Hub competition is set to take place on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the National Museum of Unity in Aleshinloye, Ibadan. This prestigious event will be led by notable dignitaries, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The competition is organized by the Young Artists Art Hub School Competition in collaboration with the National Museum of Unity.
A Platform for Creative Expression
The competition brings together 20 secondary schools across Ibadan, both public and private, for a vibrant contest in various artistic disciplines. These include visual arts, music, dance, poetry, crafts, and oratory. The event aims to provide a platform where young talents can showcase their skills and creativity.
Artist Olaide Turner-Moyet, the convenor of the event, highlighted that this year’s edition promises to be particularly dynamic. She mentioned the presence of several distinguished guests, including the Oyo State Commissioners for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Segun Olayiwola, and for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun. Mrs. Oriyomi Pamela Otuka, Zonal Director (South West) and Curator of the National Museum of Unity, will also attend the event.
Key Figures and Highlights
Chief Tunde Odunlade, a respected professor and artist, will chair the event, while celebrated Ibadan-based artist Mr. Omofemi Oluwole will be recognized as Artist of the Day. The event will be anchored by media personality and correspondent with Prince 89.7FM, Olawale Ogunbusola.
During a pre-event press conference, Turner-Moyet emphasized the cultural significance of the competition. She stated that the initiative is aimed at fostering pride in African heritage and identity. “Music, drama, poetry, crafts—these are not just forms of entertainment; they are vessels of our identity,” she said. “This initiative is a continuation of ancestral tools for expressing and appreciating life.”
A Decade of Cultural Development
Turner-Moyet explained that the initiative has been a decade in the making, with the goal of instilling cultural pride and continuity through creative expression. She added that the event offers students opportunities for socialization, networking, and appreciation of their innate talents. This exposure is expected to benefit participants beyond physical interactions.
Participating Schools and Rewards
Students from government-funded and private schools, such as St. Louis Grammar School, Ikolaba Grammar School, Oba Akinbiyi Model School, Loyola College, Bodija International College, The Vale College, Prime College, and Qiblah College, will take part in the competition. Winners will receive valuable educational prizes and support tools.
A Beacon for Youth Creativity
The Young Artists Art Hub Competition continues to serve as a beacon of cultural education, innovation, and creative growth for the youth of Ibadan and beyond. It represents a commitment to nurturing talent and preserving cultural heritage through the power of art.