By Ibrahim Akinsanmi
Known and broadly respected as a foreign mission that is committedly strengthening bilateral relations between Belgium and Nigeria in several areas of growth, the Belgian Embassy in Abuja diplomatic works, focus, resilience, innovation, programmes are advancing notable sectors in Nigeria and bettering the Nigerian society.
Ambassador Leenknegt, the event host, interacts with some of the guests
As part of its efforts in fostering art and cultural exchanges as tools for enhancing creativity, promoting cross-cultural understanding, building relationships, and fostering international cooperation between both nations, the mission again opened wide the gates of its Ambassador Residence as it hosted a unique solo Art Exhibition-IN HER EYES, a creative expression on canvass of one of Nigeria’s Brain & Beauty, Ms Nelly Idagba.
Nelly poses with some of visitors at the exhibition
The Head Of Mission, Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt, an art and creativity lover and promoter, the Host, at the opening ceremony and reception expressed his love for her art works, stating he got attracted to her work shortly after his arrival in Nigeria as one of her work shares deep composition to a famous Van Gogh paintings in late 19th century.
Invitees and Art enthusiasts
The Art exhibition showcased extraordinary paintings of the Visual artist and lawyer representing the multidimensional experience of African women, using oil on canvas to portray their strength, struggles and silent trumps. Her work seeks to amplify women voices through visual narratives.
she presents deeply personal yet universally resonant works that challenge stereotypes, celebrate resilience, and elevate the everyday experience of African women.
According to Nelly Idagba “Each painting is a reflection of my belief in art as a catalyst for change and a medium that not only documents but intervenes. I engage with themes of gender, representation and empowerment, inviting viewers into a space of dialogue and shared humanity”
Cross-section of guests at the event
Nelly’s goal is to also create works that resonates with local and global contexts, contribute to cultural discourse and supports women’s right advocacy. The exhibition’s proceeds and outcome will enable her to expand her reach, enhance the quality of the scale of her production and implement targeted community engagement projects that promotes inclusive storytelling and visibility for underrepresented voices. Through this opportunity, she also seeks to deepen the impact of her works using creativity to build bridges of understanding and promote a more just and inclusive society
Acclaim Nigerian Abuja Bureau Chief, Mr Moses Taiwo with the Belgian Deputy Ambassador in Nigeria, Ms Veronique Bernard at the event.
According to renowned and respected art steward, Femi Coker, her work is not merely about aesthetics; but her lived experience. Every shade, strokes and texture carries a story of womanhood, of heritage, of silence and voice. While the art world has evolved, echoes of exclusion remains. Walking into gallery, she still sometimes feel the weight of history pressing on her shoulders. Many women before her painted in obscurity, their works dismissed or misrepresented. Today she is reclaiming those voices, amplifying them, and adding her own.
Nelly: a rising Nigerian artist
Nelly Nkandik Idagba is rapidly craving a niche for herself in the art world and making Nigeria prouder at the global space, and needs all the encouragement and supports she can get.
Special appreciation to the Embassy of Belgium under the pragmatic headship of Ambassador Leenknegt and his team for organising such a memorable event. It was a beautiful evening on the 20th of June, 2025, a time when art enthusiasts gathered to have a glance at the thoughts, pain, excitement, anger and wide array of emotions and challenges experienced by women through art paintings. It was also a time of mingling and happiness.
Acclaim Nigeria International Magazine, ANIM, was there and covered the event.
Long Live the Embassy Of Belgium in Abuja…Long Live Belgium-Nigeria Relations
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