Mada Culture Takes Centre Stage as Akwanga’s First Art Gallery Opens to Preserve Indigenous Heritage
By Roseline Okafor, Lafia
Akwanga has recorded a historic milestone with the commissioning of the first art gallery in Nasarawa State, a development widely hailed as a significant step towards preserving indigenous culture, promoting artistic excellence, and boosting tourism in the state.
The gallery, founded by Faith Gagara Malunche, was officially inaugurated on Saturday in Akwanga amidst colourful cultural displays, traditional performances, and an exhibition of creative works celebrating the rich heritage of the Mada people and other cultural groups.
The facility features an impressive collection of artworks, including graphic designs, paintings, ceramics, sculptures, craft works, and other contemporary artistic expressions.
Beyond serving as an exhibition centre, the gallery is designed to preserve cultural heritage, nurture emerging talents, and provide a platform for both local and international artists to showcase their creativity.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Chun Mada, His Royal Highness Samson Gamu Yare, described the establishment of the gallery as a timely and commendable initiative that aligns with efforts to preserve the identity, history, and cultural values of the Mada nation.
The traditional ruler called on philanthropists, corporate organisations, and private investors to support the project, noting that it has the potential to become a major tourist attraction and cultural hub, being the first and only art gallery currently operating in Nasarawa State.
Also speaking, the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Kwanta Yakubu, described the gallery as a symbol of the state’s cultural richness and artistic potential.
He assured the founder of government support, adding that the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism would collaborate with the centre to promote indigenous arts, cultural festivals, and creative industries across Nasarawa State.
In his remarks, the member representing Akwanga North Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Larry Ven Bawa, expressed admiration for the quality and diversity of artworks displayed at the gallery.
He announced plans to sponsor legislation aimed at protecting and promoting indigenous cultures and heritage in the state.
He also commended Faith Gagara Malunche, daughter of Very Rev. Gagara Malunche, for investing her personal resources in a project that celebrates not only Mada traditions but also artistic expressions from across Nigeria and beyond.
Representing the Nasarawa State Vocational and Skills Acquisition Board, Engr. Kasimu Hamidu noted that the initiative complements government efforts to empower young people through skills development and entrepreneurship.
According to him, the gallery possesses immense potential to attract visitors from within and outside the country while creating employment opportunities for young creatives interested in graphic design, ceramics, sculpture, and other artistic disciplines.
Sharing her journey, Faith Gagara Malunche, alongside her father, Very Rev. Gagara Malunche, recounted the challenges encountered from the project’s conception to completion, including funding constraints and logistical hurdles.
She explained that the vision behind the gallery goes beyond displaying artworks, emphasizing that it is intended to preserve cultural stories, mentor young artists, and position Akwanga as a recognised destination for arts and culture.
The event also attracted prominent personalities, including David Emmanuel Ombugadu and Duba Ishaya Dodo, both aspirants in the forthcoming Nasarawa Senatorial bye-election.
The duo pledged their support for the gallery and commended the founder for creating a platform that promotes cultural preservation, artistic innovation, and youth development.
The commissioning ceremony featured traditional dances, cultural exhibitions, and guided tours of the gallery, underscoring the enduring relevance of arts and culture as tools for education, identity preservation, and economic development.
Residents described the opening of the gallery as a landmark achievement that places Akwanga and Nasarawa State on the cultural map, while providing a lasting legacy for future generations of artists and cultural enthusiasts.
