ON Monday, August 7, the literary, art, and diplomatic communities in Abuja converged at the Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts and Culture to honour an individual whose influence has indelibly touched the hearts of countless individuals.
Mohammed Suleiman. The event, which marked his 60th birthday and, and as well his retirement from the civil service, provided a fitting tribute to a visionary artist, an inspirational leader, and a bridge builder who has seamlessly united hearts and minds through the medium of art.
It was a well-attended event, blessed with the presence of the Director General of the National Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asein; Director General of the National Gallery of Art, Chief Ibara Ebatan; Director, North West Region of the National Council for Arts and Culture and former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Mallam Denja Abdullahi, members of the rotary club, and representatives of the embassies of United States of America, Spain and China, among others.
MY first encounter with ‘Oga Mohammed,’ as I affectionately address him, occurred in the year 2000 during NANTAP Abuja’s rehearsals for the production of ‘Beggar’s Strike,’ the entry for the Festival of Nigerian Plays (FESTINA) 2000 in Lagos. As I ascended the stairs of the Cyprian Ekwensi Centre, two distinct features captured my attention: his towering height and his captivating smile. That was one chance meeting which left a lasting impression on me. And of course, I became one of those to benefit from Oga Mohammed’s large heart.
Mohammed’s lanky stature projects an artistic grace that effortlessly commands attention with each fluid movement. Yet, it is his infectious smile that truly captivates observers upon the first encounter. When his lips curl upwards, his eyes radiate warmth, enveloping everyone in an embrace of gentle affection. His authentic kindness and approachability cultivate an atmosphere of camaraderie and understanding, a magnetic force that draws people towards him. Within the realm of art, his lanky form seems to extend onto the canvas, while his smile becomes an open invitation to partake in the splendour of creativity. Indeed, Mohammed’s presence not only serves as an inspiration through his artistic craft, but also through his capacity to embrace humanity with open arms.
Mohammed Suleiman’s journey as an artist commenced with a spark of creativity that ignited a lifelong fervour for the visual arts. From a tender age, he showcased prodigious talent and an inherent aptitude to communicate emotions, ideas, and narratives through his artwork. With each brushstroke, he breathed life into captivating images that stirred the soul and ignited the imagination. His artistic prowess transcended the canvas as he seamlessly embraced diverse mediums, each challenging perceptions and inducing contemplation.
During the event, a guest tribute shared through a video message that if Mohammed were to paint a ‘soul,’ it would be the final frontier of his artistic repertoire. Moreover, in a goodwill message, Julie Mckay, from the Embassy of the United States of America prophetically asserted, “if a soul is ever going to be painted by an artist, there wouldn’t be a better one than Mohammed.” Such is the profound impact he exudes.
As the President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Mohammed Suleiman has emerged over the past two years as a paragon of artistic excellence and an advocate for creative freedom. His leadership epitomises an unyielding dedication to empowering fellow artists, cultivating innovative creativity, and championing the recognition and bolstering of the arts within Nigeria and beyond. Under his stewardship, the Society of Nigerian Artists has flourished, evolving into a platform for artistic exchange and a catalyst for societal transformation – a role he has embodied for numerous years as the man affectionately called ‘Erisco’ by close friends.
At heart, Mohammed Suleiman is a bridge builder, employing art as a potent tool to connect individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Through his masterful creations, he transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, catalysing dialogues that reverberate across boundaries. His artwork stands as a testament to the potency of creativity in fostering bridges of comprehension and empathy, converting differences into wellsprings of inspiration and unity. His creations have graced international exhibitions spanning China, Trinidad and Tobago, France, Brazil, South Africa, and the United States of America, amassing numerous awards that pay homage to his artistic achievements.
As an artist, Mohammed Suleiman fearlessly confronts intricate societal quandaries, illuminating the struggles and triumphs inherent in human experience. His work often mirrors human essence with unwavering candour. Through his artistry, he raises awareness about pressing concerns, encompassing topics such as the environment, social equity, human rights, and gender parity. His canvas metamorphoses into a stage for activism, provoking viewers to introspect the world around them and advocate for constructive change.
Yet, his influence transcends artistic accomplishments; Mohammed Suleiman’s impact as a mentor and leader is immeasurable. He has nurtured numerous emerging artists, guiding them through their creative odysseys while instilling the values of persistence, authenticity, and social consciousness. His generosity and willingness to impart knowledge have sculpted the next generation of artists, constructing a legacy that extends far beyond his personal artistic achievements.
Had every guest present been afforded the opportunity to speak, it is certain that their testimonies would have flowed ceaselessly, united in their admiration for Mohammed’s character. There was so much to say about him, than time permitted.
As we bid adieu to his distinguished civil service career, we commend not only an artist but an individual whose kindness, humility, and compassion have touched the lives of all fortunate enough to encounter him. He embodies the essence of art, not solely within his creations, but also in the profound impact he has etched upon individuals, communities, and society. Although the Social Development Secretariat, especially the Department of Arts and Culture, will undoubtedly feel his absence, one of the event’s banners succinctly affirms, “after civil service, there is life.”
As he embarks on the forthcoming chapter of his journey, I remain confident that Mohammed Suleiman’s ardour for art and his dedication to building bridges will continue to shine resplendently. Whilst the realm of civil service bids him farewell, his artistic legacy and leadership shall forever endure, etched within the hearts of those whom he has inspired and influenced.
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