Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has renewed its commitment to Nigeria’s creative sector by sponsoring The Library, a knowledge-driven installation showcased at the 10th edition of ART X Lagos. The annual art fair, which has grown into a major platform for contemporary African artistic expression since 2016, returned this year with the theme: “Imagining Otherwise, No Matter the Tide.” The theme encouraged audiences to consider how imagination can shape healthier, more connected urban futures, even in times of uncertainty.
In aligning with this vision, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers said its continued partnership with ART X Lagos reflects its belief that creativity, cultural preservation and access to knowledge are essential ingredients for building strong, thriving societies. The company expanded its support in 2025 through The Library, described as an interactive installation created to offer a quiet, reflective space for visitors to engage deeply with ideas, culture and shared experiences.
According to the organisers, The Library drew inspiration from the resilience of Nigeria’s mangrove ecosystems, which continue to survive and adapt despite environmental pressures. This natural symbolism was used to highlight how communities across Nigeria also find strength in creativity, knowledge and cultural continuity.
At the event, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Olumide Oyetan, said the fair’s theme mirrors the resilience found across Nigeria, where people continue to innovate and push boundaries in the face of challenges. Oyetan stressed that imagination has an important place not only in the world of art but also in long-term planning, financial confidence and building sustainable futures. He explained that the ability to imagine possibilities beyond the present is what guides individuals, communities and organisations toward progress.
Oyetan described The Library as more than just an installation. He said it represents a space for learning, reflection, inspiration and forward thinking. He also highlighted the importance of nurturing young minds by exposing children to art early enough to influence how they see themselves and their communities. According to him, encouraging young Nigerians to appreciate creativity can help them imagine brighter futures and understand their role in building them.
He further praised the creativity of African artists whose works celebrate culture and identity. Oyetan said showcasing African artistic excellence reflects the organisation’s belief in every individual’s ability to inspire positive change. He encouraged Nigerians to celebrate their heritage while embracing the promise of what lies ahead.
The fair also maintained one of its most popular traditions—the Kids Tour. A total of 60 students from Lisabi Grammar School in Abeokuta, Mile High International School in Ikotun, and Roy Dek Academy in Makoko, Yaba, Lagos, participated. The children were given a guided tour of the exhibition, allowing them to engage directly with artworks and interact with ideas that broaden their creative thinking.
Since its debut almost a decade ago, ART X Lagos has grown from a modest fair to a major cultural platform that attracts artists, collectors, curators and enthusiasts from across Africa and beyond. For Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, what started as a basic contribution has now evolved into a deeper collaboration built on nurturing artistic talent and promoting African perspectives on the global stage.
In addition to The Library, the organisation hosted a private VIP experience for select high-net-worth clients. The exclusive session offered an intimate viewing of outstanding artworks and provided space for meaningful conversations around legacy, creativity and Africa’s changing art landscape. The initiative further strengthened the bond between art and community engagement, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to supporting cultural platforms that enrich society.
Through these expanded activities, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers and ART X Lagos continued to build stronger connections between art, education and community development. Their partnership also demonstrated the role of corporate organisations in promoting cultural expression while ensuring that younger generations have opportunities to learn, reflect and dream.
