The National Gallery of Art (NGA) has reiterated its commitment to using creative expression as a vehicle for environmental education, as it marked this year’s Children’s Day celebration with a vibrant showcase of Nigerian children’s artistic talents.
The celebration, which took place in Kaduna, placed special emphasis on raising environmental awareness through visual art, with schoolchildren displaying artworks themed around climate action and sustainability.
Director-General of the NGA, Ahmed Sodangi, while delivering his keynote address, urged parents, educators, and stakeholders to nurture the creativity of children as a means of fostering environmental responsibility and building a sustainable future.
He stressed the importance of the occasion, noting that children hold a vital role in shaping public attitudes towards environmental conservation.
“Celebrating our environment through visual art is vital to ensuring that the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat remain safe for all”.
The DG also highlighted the NGA’s mandate to promote and preserve visual art in Nigeria, adding that part of its focus is on harnessing the natural talents of young Nigerians through painting, drawing, and sculpture.
“Children’s creativity is a powerful tool to advocate for afforestation and combat deforestation”.
Earlier in his remarks, Mohammed Idi, Zonal Coordinator for the Northwest Zone, echoed the DG’s call for greater investment in children’s creative development, particularly in addressing the nation’s environmental challenges.
“It is our duty to empower our children to become part of the solution rather than the cause of environmental problems,” Idi stated, while commending participating schools and NGA staff for their commitment to the success of the programme.
Also speaking, Nana Hajara Tijani, Curator and Head of Station in Kaduna, expressed appreciation to schools, teachers, sponsors, and guests who contributed to the success of the event. She described the exhibition and art competition as a remarkable celebration of talent and purpose.
“We are grateful to the Director-General and the Zonal Coordinator for their unwavering support.
“This event will be remembered as a meaningful step towards merging creativity with climate advocacy.”
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