Turkey’s ambassador Mehmet Poroy attends Hagia Sophia exhibition, iftar in Abuja
Breaking fast and celebrating heritage, the event brought together dignitaries, artists, and communities in a display of faith and cultural exchange.
By Abdullahi Yusuf
An exhibition celebrating one of the world’s most iconic monuments has drawn diplomats, cultural figures and members of the Muslim community together in Nigeria’s capital, in an event organisers say reflects the unifying power of art and faith.
Held on March 16 at the Al Noor Mosque Academy in Abuja, the Hagia Sophia Photography Exhibition and iftar programme brought together a cross-section of guests, including representatives of the Turkish community in Nigeria.
The event was organised through a collaboration between the Yunus Emre Institute, the Daru’l Erkam Foundation and the Islamic Culture & Arts Center.
Among those in attendance was Türkiye’s ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, alongside the coordinator of the Abuja Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Centre, Fatih Erkin Mahdum, and other dignitaries and cultural administrators.
At the centre of the exhibition was Hagia Sophia, the historic structure in Istanbul widely regarded as a symbol of layered religious and cultural heritage. A curated collection of photographs offered visitors a visual account of its architectural scale and historical significance, tracing its transformation across centuries.
Organisers said the exhibition was intended to deepen cultural understanding by presenting the monument not only as a site of historical importance but also as a shared legacy that continues to resonate across different societies.
The evening also featured an iftar gathering, where attendees broke their fast together in observance of Ramadan. The shared meal, participants said, created an atmosphere of reflection and strengthened bonds among guests from different backgrounds.
Several attendees described the event as both educational and unifying, highlighting how the combination of visual art and communal worship fostered dialogue and mutual appreciation.
Organisers said such initiatives play a growing role in strengthening ties between Nigeria and Türkiye, particularly through cultural diplomacy and community engagement.
They added that the turnout and response underscored a broader interest in platforms that promote social cohesion and cross-cultural exchange.
The programme concluded with expressions of appreciation to participants, with organisers describing the event as a reminder of how shared values and heritage can bridge divides and bring communities together.
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