IN PICTURES: Faces and Scenes From the Opening of ‘New Nature’ in Abuja

Diplomats, lawmakers and artists joined members of the Turkish community at the Atrium Gallery for the opening of Ayşegül Poroy’s 15th solo exhibition.

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has officially declared open New Nature, the 15th solo exhibition of his wife, artist and Associate Professor of Fine Arts Ayşegül Özlenen Poroy, at the Atrium Gallery of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

The opening ceremony on Tuesday, 3 November, featured remarks by the ambassador, of Turkiye, the exhibition’s curator, Nduwhite Ndubuisi Ahanonu, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zok.

Türkiye’s Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Mehmet Poroy, with his wife, artist Ayşegül Poroy, at the opening of New Nature at the Atrium Gallery, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja

In his goodwill message on behalf of the House of Representatives, Zok described art as a universal language capable of connecting people, cultures and nations. He also highlighted the contribution of the creative industry to economic development, national identity and international cooperation, calling for more opportunities for Nigerian artists and creative professionals.

Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock speaking at the opening of the New Nature exhibition in Abuja

The event brought together members of the diplomatic community, including ambassadors from several countries, alongside representatives of Nigeria’s creative sector, members of the Turkish community and other invited guests. Among those in attendance was Dr Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation.

Following the opening remarks and formal declaration, guests toured the exhibition, engaging with Poroy’s paintings, botanical prints and installations exploring nature, plastic pollution, memory, identity and movement.

New Nature runs until 20 November 2026 at the Atrium Gallery, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.

Read our earlier report on the exhibition here.

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