The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in collaboration with the University Senior Staff Club, will on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 unveil a landmark publication celebrating the life, career and enduring influence of internationally acclaimed contemporary artist, Emeritus Professor El Anatsui.
Titled ‘El Anatsui: The Man, the Myth, the Legend at 80 and Counting,’ the 411-page volume will be unveiled at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium (PAA), UNN, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Edited by Associate Professor Greg Mbajiorgu and Chikaogwu Kanu, the book chronicles the artistic journey and intellectual contributions of the Ghanaian-born sculptor, who lived and worked in Nsukka for 47 years, producing works that earned global recognition and placed the university town on the international cultural map.
The publication features contributions from more than 100 scholars, artists, administrators, journalists, traditional rulers, scientists and cultural practitioners from Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, South Africa, Europe and North America. It examines El Anatsui’s accomplishments as an artist, teacher, mentor, institution builder and cultural ambassador.
According to the organisers, the unveiling is expected to attract scholars, traditional rulers, public office holders, cultural leaders, alumni, media practitioners, art enthusiasts and members of the public.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, will serve as Chief Host, while the President of the University Senior Staff Club, Professor Chukwudi Nnamchi, will host the event. Chairman of the Planning Committee, Professor Lazarus Ogenyi, is the Co-Host.
The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, will chair the occasion.
Other expected dignitaries include Rt. Hon. Chidi Obeta, member representing Nsukka/Igboeze South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives; Justice Professor Peter Umeadi; Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Dr. Obi Asika; Dr. Mrs. Virgy Anohu (Adadioramma); HRH Igwe George Asadu (Okpudo, Ihe n’Owerre); HRH Eze Ifeanyi Ekeh (Udumeze III of Lokpanta); and Chief Loretta Aniagolu, Director of FIT Consult Group of Companies.
Renowned linguist, literary scholar and columnist, Professor Chris Uchenna Agbedo, will review the book, offering what the organisers describe as an intellectual assessment of its significance as a cultural archive and historical record.
The organisers said the publication documents not only El Anatsui’s artistic achievements but also the intellectual history of the University of Nigeria and the evolution of the internationally recognised Nsukka School of Art.
They added that the volume highlights Africa’s growing influence in global artistic discourse and reflects the impact of El Anatsui’s career in advancing contemporary African art across museums, galleries and cultural institutions worldwide.
Members of the academic community, the arts sector and the general public have been invited to attend the unveiling, which the organisers described as an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of one of Africa’s most influential contemporary artists.
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