Godsent Ogbebor
Professor Dele Jegede Celebrates Uncle Sam Amuka’s Legacy at Art Exhibition
The legacy of Nigerian media titan Uncle Sam Amuka is celebrated today as the first-ever Uncle Sam Amuka (USA) Art Exhibition opens at Alexis Gallery on Victoria Island, Lagos, on December 16, 2025.
Renowned Nigerian-American artist Professor Dele Jegede heads the landmark event, which honours Amuka’s invaluable contributions to journalism, cartooning, and the arts. The exhibition, titled USA, is an acronym for the nonagenarian journalist and publisher, Uncle Sam Amuka.
In a statement, Professor Jegede clarified that the name “USA” was coincidental and unrelated to the United States, reflecting Amuka’s enduring influence on the creative and media industries.
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Jegede paid tribute to Amuka, describing him as a member of a rare and distinguished group of Nigerian nonagenarians, alongside luminaries such as Afe Babalola and Wole Soyinka. He emphasised Amuka’s role in pioneering Nigerian cartooning, particularly through his work with The Punch and Vanguard, which helped establish vibrant cartooning desks at major Nigerian newspapers.
The exhibition also features artwork from Professor Jegede, including his “Celestial Aesthetic Series 2,” a poignant body of work inspired by a personal tragedy. Jegede explained that the series was a cathartic response to the loss of his son, reflecting a spiritual journey of healing through his art.
The USA Exhibition, curated by Dr Osa Mbonu-Amadi, celebrates Amuka’s multifaceted contributions and serves as a cultural milestone for Nigerian arts and media.
