The Director General of the National Gallery of Art (NGA), Ahmed Sodangi, has unveiled an initiative aimed at empowering 50,000 young visual artists through specialised training focused on artificial intelligence (AI)-based innovations.
The programme is designed to equip artists with the skills needed to blend modern technology with their creative work, helping them stay relevant in a fast-changing digital world. According to the NGA, the training will cover both the structural aspects of artistic production and hands-on experience with AI tools that can enhance creative expression.
Participants will also have access to financial support through the Social Good Fund, a platform created to support viable projects and encourage sustainable career growth for creatives.
Sodangi made the announcement during the official launch of the National Creatives AI Media Toolkit, a joint initiative between the NGA and AIDOS Studios. The event was held at the SGF Innovative Hub in Mabushi, Abuja.
He described the launch as a major step in bringing technology and culture together. He said the initiative would empower artists to tell their unique stories, protect their artistic identity, and connect with audiences in more meaningful ways.
Sodangi observed, “the creative industry in Nigeria has been flourishing for years, driven by the talent and passion of its people, often with minimal government intervention. However, the growth of this industry has reached a point where its influence is undeniable on the global stage. The government must partner with industry players. The Social Good Fund is an established framework that ensures business viability and access to funding for creative endeavours.”
The NGA stated that by providing advanced tools and structured support, the initiative aims to help creatives and media professionals build strong and sustainable careers. It also seeks to merge artificial intelligence with artistic insight to strengthen the future of the arts sector.
Chief Executive Officer of AIDOS CREATIONS, Pamela Williams, explained that the project focuses on preservation, empowerment, and improving Nigeria’s position globally. She said the initiative will support creativity, protect culture, and strengthen the narrative around Nigerian stories.
She added that improving communication and distribution channels for creative content is key to growing the creative economy.
Williams said, “Nigeria is abundant in talent, expression, and imagination. Our contributions to art, film, media, and digital content significantly impact global conversations. However, even the most compelling creative work needs effective communication, positioning, and sustainable support to make a lasting impression. This is precisely the gap the National Creatives AI Media Toolkit seeks to fill as we take intentional steps toward establishing Nigeria as a global leader in AI-enabled creative infrastructure.”
