Stanbic IBTC Champions Culture at ART X Lagos

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has reinforced its commitment to creativity, knowledge, and cultural preservation through its sponsorship of The Library, a curated installation at the 10th ART X Lagos.

The 2025 edition of Africa’s premier contemporary art fair embraced the theme “Imagining Otherwise, No Matter the Tide”, inviting participants to reflect on how imagination can drive more connected, resilient, and sustainable urban futures.

Aligned with this vision, The Library served as an interactive space for reflection, shared discovery, and inspiration. Visitors engaged with curated books and visual materials from the Guest Artists Space (G.A.S.) Foundation art library, selections from the ART X curator’s research archive, ART X Cinema programming, and an exhibition featuring works by iconic Nigerian artist Bruce Onobrakpeya. The installation was inspired by the resilience of Nigeria’s mangrove ecosystems, symbolizing continuity, renewal, and collective knowledge.

Olumide Oyetan, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, highlighted the connection between imagination and resilience, noting that the theme mirrors the ingenuity and determination of Nigerian communities. He stressed that imagination is central not only to artistic expression but also to long-term planning, financial confidence, and societal development. “The Library is a space for reflection, learning, inspiration, and a drive for tomorrow,” he said, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young minds and encouraging them to appreciate art while envisioning a promising future.

In addition to The Library, the fair featured the signature Kids Tour, which welcomed 60 students from schools including Lisabi Grammar School, Mile High International School, and Roy Dek Academy. The tour provided early exposure to contemporary art, helping participants explore various media and techniques while fostering curiosity and creativity.

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers also hosted a private VIP experience for select high-net-worth clients, offering an intimate viewing of standout artworks and fostering discussions on legacy, creativity, and the evolving African art landscape.

Since ART X Lagos’ inception in 2016, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers has evolved from a contributor to a strategic partner, supporting artistic expression, education, and the amplification of African perspectives globally. The partnership underscores the company’s belief that art, culture, and knowledge preservation are essential to building resilient and thriving communities.

As the fair enters its second decade, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers reaffirmed its commitment to championing creativity, cultural heritage, and community engagement, using art as a catalyst for innovation, learning, and sustainable growth across Nigeria.