The organisers of the +234 Art Fair, Soto Gallery, have partnered with Ecobank Nigeria Limited and Africa Finance Corporation to hold the second edition of the fair. In a statement on Monday, Ecobank said the event, which will take place later this month at its Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, has as its main sponsor, Craneburg Construction Company. The theme for the 2025 edition, ‘Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,’ will explore the transformative power of patronage in driving the growth and sustainability of Nigerian art. Founder of +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, Mrs Tola Akerele expressed her excitement about the continued success of the event, emphasising that patronage in the art world goes beyond financial support; it’s about fostering relationships that empower artists to sustain and expand their creative practices. “Art thrives in environments where the practice is nurtured by a community committed to its growth, and the 2025 edition of the +234 Art Fair aims to facilitate those essential connections. By providing a dynamic platform for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to interact, the fair will demonstrate how meaningful support can shape an artist’s journey and enhance the broader art ecosystem,” she said. Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector across Nigeria and Africa. “The creative industry is a vital driver of economic growth and global connectivity, and we are proud to invest in the next generation of African talent. By providing platforms for emerging artists, we aim to support the growth and international recognition of Nigeria’s flourishing art scene,” he stated.