NUXART: The Medium That Elevates Creative Artists
As the heat of competition blazes across the tracks, courts, and fields of the 27th Nigerian University Games (NUGA), one initiative continues to remind us that the spirit of NUGA is not just about athletic excellence, itâs also about creativity, culture, and education.
The Culture and Education Programme, introduced in 2021 through a partnership between the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) and the Centre for Culture and Environment Promotion, adds a vibrant layer of artistic and intellectual expression to the Games. Headed by Dr. Patrick Okpah, the programme enriches NUGA through exhibitions, cultural showcases, tourism, and capacity-building activities, celebrating the diverse creativity of Nigerian university students.
One of its most inspiring components is NUXART, a platform that shines a spotlight on student artists from across the country. NUXART features art and educational exhibitions that welcome submissions from painters, photographers, sculptors, and artisans, allowing their work to be showcased throughout the duration of the Games. This initiative not only amplifies artistic visibility but also helps young creatives find a voice and an audience beyond their campuses.
The power of NUXARTâs impact can be seen in the journey of Usman Usman, the current Ambassador and Curator of the 27th NUGA NUXART. A participant in the inaugural edition in 2022, Usman has since established the Creative Talents Workshop and Expo, an initiative training and empowering artists across North-Eastern Nigeria. Reflecting on his experience, he shared
âComing in contact with NUGA has amplified the work of the Centre for Culture, and it shows that creative voices can contribute to national development.â
This yearâs edition of NUXART highlights an array of exceptional talents, including Abiodun Shokeneu, a documentary photographer known for his keen eye for detail, and Naankus Abani, a crocheter using her art to support vulnerable children. Their works, along with those of many others, transform the exhibition into a dynamic celebration of art, identity, and purpose.
The impressive turnout and the remarkable quality of the works on display at the 27th NUXART stand as a testament to the vision and dedication of the Culture and Education Programme team. Beyond aesthetics, this initiative reinforces that sports and arts share a common ground passion, expression, and excellence.
Through NUXART, NUGA continues to build a legacy that honors creativity as much as competition, showing that the Games are not just about medals, but also about minds that inspire and create.