Image

Message from
Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye

Image

African culture is deep, rich, and full of life. From our languages, traditions, and attire, to our food, dance, music, and craftsmanship, Africa is a divine cradle of beauty and spirit. For over three decades, Nike Art Gallery has carried the banner of this heritage across Nigeria and the world, showcasing its splendour through art, exhibitions, cultural events, and empowerment programs rooted in indigenous wisdom and passion.

Born in the tranquil village of Ogidi-Ijumu, Kogi State, my journey is woven into this cultural tapestry. From humble beginnings as a village girl and stage dancer, I walked the path of art with a vision to uplift, empower, and preserve African traditions. Through resilience and grace, I built one of Africa’s most prominent art galleries and trained over 3,000 Nigerians, especially women, in textile art, dyeing, painting, and embroidery. My mission has always been to use art as a vehicle for transformation, healing, and opportunity for those left behind.


Through the years, Nike Art Gallery has expanded its reach from Lagos to Osogbo, Abuja, Ogidi-Ijumu and the United States of America. Now, it brings its vision to the iconic city of Abeokuta, nestled under the timeless presence of Olumo Rock. With the support from His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun and the Ogun State Government, ... we are proud to open the newest branch: Nike Art Gallery in Olumo Rock, Abeokutaβ€”a fusion of nature’s wonder and human creativity. Here, art lives among ancient stories. Here, culture meets community.

Olumo Rock, the sacred refuge of the Egba people, stands as a symbol of peace, strength, and resilience. Rising 137 metres above sea level, it has long been watched over the land as a natural fortress, where prayers were answered and battles ended. Today, we honour that legacy through our galleryβ€”restoring, preserving, and reimagining history for future generations.

Nike Art Gallery in Olumo Rock is where granite meets canvas, heritage meets innovation, and history meets hope. Here, we will showcase extraordinary artworks, host dynamic cultural events, and celebrate Ogun State’s legendary contributions to Nigeria’s cultural fabric. From curated exhibitions to fashion displays, musical performances to youth empowerment programsβ€”this space is designed to ignite imagination and instill pride in our shared identity.

We are bringing an iconic experience to Abeokuta: one that celebrates the art, culture, and heritage renaissance of Ogun State and Africa at large.

We look forward to welcoming YOU.

– Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye (Mama Nike)

FEATURED EXHIBITION

"African I.D.E.N.T.I.T.Y β€” Nine Seasons of Wole Soyinka"

Honouring a Legend. Inspiring a Generation.

Crafted by artist Tola Wewe and curated by Princess Marinay, this immersive collection celebrates the literary and activist legacy of Professor Wole Soyinka on his 90th birthday.

From Nigeria to Florence, Italy, this visual journey transcends boundaries with nine bold masterpieces, each reflecting a chapter in Soyinka’s enduring impact on justice, identity, and human freedom.

Only at Nike Art Gallery, Olumo Rock.

The Legacy of Wole Soyinka

This painting reimagines Wole Soyinka from Michelangelo's perspective, akin to his famous work "The Creation of Adam."

Image

Loudest Ovation

This painting captures the historic moment in 1986 when Wole Soyinka became the first African Nobel Laureate.

Image

Ori Kongi (Wole Soyinka’s Head)

"OrΓ­" (Head) holds profound significance, symbolising the destiny with which each individual is born.

Image

A Dance of the Forest

This painting, inspired by Wole Soyinka's seminal play, vividly explores Nigeria's uncertain future after gaining independence

Image

A Historic Welcome to Ogun State

Image

A Tribute to His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun

On April 30, 2025, the cultural heartbeat of Ogun State grew stronger as His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, warmly welcomed Chief Dr. Nike Okundayeβ€”fondly known as Mama Nikeβ€”to Abeokuta to officially announce the Partnership to establish the Nike Art Gallery at Olumo Rock.

This moment marks the beginning of a powerful cultural transformation.

With vision and bold leadership, His Excellency has opened the gates for art, heritage, and innovation to thrive at the legendary Olumo Rock Tourist Centre, setting the stage for Ogun State to become Nigeria's leading cultural destination.

The Nike Art Gallery in Olumo Rock is a symbol of heritage reimagined. It is a vibrant space for art, fashion, music, dance, and storytellingβ€”a sanctuary where creativity meets community. More than tourism, it is a beacon of youth empowerment, cultural education, and economic development.

We honour Governor Dapo Abiodun's unwavering commitment to promoting culture, supporting creative enterprise, and empowering the future through bold partnerships.

This special collaboration is a legacy in motion.

Thank you, Your Excellency, for opening the doors to a new cultural dawn.

Image
Image
Image

Exhibitions & Events Calendar


Upcoming Cultural Highlights at Nike Art Gallery, Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

Dynamic Content Image

Nike Art Gallery, Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

16 Jun, 2025 01:00 AM

Join us for the grand opening of the newest Nike Art Gallery at the iconic Olumo Rock. Experience the unveiling of timeless works, Indigenous textile displays, and immersive cultural storytelling. A journey of heritage begins here.

Dynamic Content Image

Nike Art Gallery Courtyard, Olumo Rock

17 Jun, 2025 11:59 AM

Join us as we celebrate 74 glorious years of Chief Dr. Nike Okundaye with an enchanting evening of dance, art, storytelling, and live performances under the Abeokuta sky, alongside Mama Nike herself.

Dynamic Content Image

Gallery Grounds & Learning Pavilion, Olumo Rock

20 Jun, 2025 11:59 AM

This nature-inspired exhibition combines environmental awareness with artistic expression. Discover green-themed art installations and participate in live painting workshops focused on sustainability and climate awareness.

Dynamic Content Image

Nike Art Gallery Talkspace, Olumo Rock

21 Jun, 2025 11:00 AM

Join us for an engaging panel and dialogue series that will explore the future of African art in diaspora exhibitions. This session will prepare attendees for Nike Art Gallery’s cultural representation at the Pennsylvania Global Showcase.

Explore Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

Visit Us


Plan Your Visit to Nike Art Gallery, Abeokuta

πŸ“ Location: Inside Olumo Rock Tourist Complex, Ikija, Abeokuta


πŸ“… Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Monday – Sunday


πŸ“ž Phone: +234 811 538 6220


βœ‰οΈ Email: booking@nikeartgallery.ng

Group Tours, School Visits & Workshops Available