The Federal Government has confirmed that Nigeria will participate in the 62nd International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia in 2028, marking the country’s return to one of the world’s most prestigious art platforms.
The announcement, made on Thursday by the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, signals a renewed push to strengthen Nigeria’s global cultural presence following its widely noted outing at the 2024 edition of the exhibition.
The ministry said the 2028 participation will be coordinated under its international cultural initiative, Nigeria Everywhere, and will focus on building stronger governance structures, sustainable funding frameworks and long-term diplomatic and economic gains tied to cultural engagement.
As part of early preparations, the government appointed Richard Vedelago as curator of the Nigeria Pavilion for the 2028 exhibition.
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Officials said his selection is aimed at deepening curatorial standards, fostering international collaboration and ensuring stronger institutional planning ahead of the global showcase.
The Venice Biennale, formally known as International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia, brings together countries from across the world to present contemporary art exhibitions in national pavilions, serving as a major platform for cultural diplomacy and artistic exchange.
Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, described Nigeria’s return as a significant step in consolidating the country’s cultural diplomacy efforts.
According to her, the Nigeria Pavilion at the 2028 edition will highlight the depth and diversity of Nigerian creativity while reinforcing Africa’s voice in global artistic conversations.
She added that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy of positioning culture as a driver of economic growth, global influence and national identity.
The ministry disclosed that preparations for the pavilion will follow a phased development plan, including governance reforms, diversified funding models, partnerships with international museums, engagement with the Nigerian diaspora and collaboration with private sector stakeholders.
Officials said the early confirmation of participation in the 62nd edition reflects Nigeria’s ambition to strengthen African representation in global art spaces and to build sustainable cultural institutions that endure beyond a single exhibition cycle.
