Nsukka Pays Tribute to El Anatsui on His 80th Birthday with a Groundbreaking Publication

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in partnership with the University Senior Staff Club, is set to host a grand celebration in honor of Professor El Anatsui, a renowned global visual art legend, with the unveiling of a landmark book titled "El Anatsui: The Man, the Myth, the Legend at 80 and Counting" on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium.

This monumental 411-page book, edited by Associate Prof. Greg Mbajiorgu and Chikaogwu Kanu, is a comprehensive tribute to the extraordinary life, scholarship, and artistic genius of Emeritus Professor El Anatsui, who has become arguably the most influential Black visual artist of the contemporary era after rising from the modest university town of Nsukka.

Professor El Anatsui was born in Anyako, Volta Region, Ghana, on February 4, 1944, as the youngest of his father's 32 children, and was raised by his uncle after losing his mother, before going on to train at the College of Art, University of Science and Technology, in Kumasi, central Ghana.

El Anatsui also holds a post-graduate diploma in art education from the University of Science and Technology, which he obtained in 1969, and from his base in Nsukka, he transformed discarded materials into masterpieces that now adorn the world's most prestigious museums and galleries, earning him international acclaim.

His innovations have earned him recognition as one of Time's 100 Most Influential People in the World, and through his work, the town of Nsukka has become a destination for scholars, curators, and tourists alike, demonstrating how creativity can transform geography into destiny.

The event will feature a comprehensive review of the book by Professor Chris Uchenna Agbedo, a renowned linguist, literary scholar, and public affairs analyst, whose insights will highlight the volume's significance as a cultural archive and intellectual monument, and will bring together an impressive assembly of leaders from academia, government, and the arts.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, will serve as Chief Host, alongside the President of the University Senior Staff Club, Professor Chukwudi Nnamchi, and the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Professor Lazarus Ogenyi, at the unveiling ceremony.

His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, the Obi of Onitsha, will preside as Chairman of the Occasion, and other distinguished Special Guests of Honour include Rt. Hon. Chidi Obeta, Justice Professor Peter Umeadi, Dr. Obi Asika, and Dr. (Mrs.) Virgy Anohu, among others.

The volume is unprecedented in scope, featuring contributions from over one hundred scholars, artists, and cultural practitioners from Africa, Europe, and North America, and stands as one of the most comprehensive tributes ever dedicated to an African artist, capturing not only El Anatsui's artistic achievements but also his legacy as a mentor, teacher, philanthropist, and institution-builder.

According to the organisers, the significance of this publication extends beyond individual celebration, as it documents the intellectual history of the University of Nigeria, chronicles the emergence of the "Nsukka School of Art," and serves as a testament to Africa's growing contribution to global artistic discourse.