Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, was recently spotted at the O’DA Art Gallery booth during the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair in London, sparking interest and reactions across social media.

The fair, which runs from October 16 to 19 at Somerset House, is one of the world’s leading platforms for modern and contemporary African art. This year’s edition features a strong Nigerian representation, with O’DA Art Gallery among the exhibitors. The gallery’s exhibition, titled “Lines of Spirit,” highlights the works of Nigerian artists Simon Ojeaga, Paul Majek, and Afeez Onakoya.

A video circulating online shows Minister Edun addressing guests at the gallery, an appearance later confirmed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

“Finance Minister Wale Edun visits an art exhibition in the UK. He is in the country for an officially sanctioned few days of rest from the rigours of managing the Nigerian economy,” Onanuga wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Edun’s public appearance comes shortly after reports suggested he was indisposed and scheduled to travel abroad for medical treatment. Onanuga had previously confirmed on Sunday that the minister was unwell.

Due to his health condition, Central Bank Governor Olayemi Cardoso led Nigeria’s delegation to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) annual meetings in Washington, D.C.

According to reports, Edun departed Abuja for Lagos on Monday night via a commercial flight before heading abroad for medical care. His recent presence at the London art fair has drawn attention from Nigerians, many of whom have expressed relief at signs of his recovery.

Melissa Enoch

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