National Museum Unveils Enwonwu’s 1956 Sculpture of Queen Elizabeth II in Lagos

The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) in collaboration with Coronation Group Ltd. and Fine Art Auctioneers, Bonhams, has unveiled a permanent exhibition of late Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu’s 1956 sculpture of Queen Elizabeth II. The exhibition, titled “Building

A Nation: Ben Enwonwu and the Impact of Sculpture”, highlights Enwonwu’s influence on Nigerian and African art and his legacy as one of Africa’s most celebrated sculptors.

The sculpture, commissioned during the Queen’s visit to Nigeria in 1956 and completed in London the following year, portrays Queen Elizabeth II seated, hands resting on her lap. Speaking at the event, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, praised Enwonwu as a “national treasure” and emphasized the importance of cultural preservation in strengthening national identity.

Musawa stated, “Enwonwu’s work is not only a symbol of Nigeria’s cultural heritage but also a reminder of the power of African art globally. Through public-private partnerships, we are ensuring that this legacy endures for future generations.”

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Coronation Group, underscored the role of the private sector in supporting Africa’s cultural preservation, expressing pride in contributing to greater access to Enwonwu’s works. He noted, “Art and culture are among Africa’s greatest gifts to the world. We’re committed to sustaining these treasures through collaborations with institutions like NCMM.”

NCMM Director-General Olugbile Holloway remarked that the exhibition connects Nigerian artistic heritage with modern national identity, celebrating Enwonwu’s impact in the years leading up to Nigeria’s independence. Art historian Neil Coventry highlighted the importance of Enwonwu’s work in capturing African identity and preserving Nigeria’s cultural narratives through sculpture.

The exhibition, now open at NCMM in Lagos, provides visitors with an opportunity to explore Enwonwu’s artistic process and his enduring influence on Nigerian and African art.