Nigerian sculptor and environmental artist Dotun Popoola is once again drawing attention to the creative possibilities hidden in discarded materials as he officially launched his 8th solo exhibition, Reclaimed Beauty; A Dialogue Between Nations.

The exhibition opened on June 12, 2026, at The Village by Tikera in Abuja and is scheduled to run until September 30. Organised by Tikera Africa in partnership with the Scrap Art Museum, the showcase presents a collection of large-scale sculptures and installations created from scrap metal and other reclaimed materials. According to the organisers, the exhibition explores themes of sustainability, transformation and cultural exchange through art.

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For years, Popoola has built a reputation for transforming discarded metal into detailed sculptures that challenge perceptions of waste. Born in Lagos in 1981, the artist studied at Auchi Polytechnic and later at Obafemi Awolowo University. His work centres on giving new purpose to materials that would otherwise end up in scrapyards or landfills, turning them into pieces that carry both artistic and environmental significance.

Speaking about Reclaimed Beauty, Popoola said the exhibition was inspired by the journey his artworks have taken across different parts of the world. Over the years, his sculptures have been displayed in several countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Turkey, India, Qatar, Ghana, Morocco and Azerbaijan. Through this experience, he has seen how art made from recycled materials can spark conversations about environmental responsibility beyond national borders.

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The exhibition also reflects a growing global interest in sustainable art. Many of the works on display are assembled from metal scraps recovered from waste streams and abandoned industrial materials. Rather than concealing the origins of these materials, Popoola incorporates them into the final designs, allowing viewers to recognise the transformation that has taken place.

During the opening ceremony, Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, praised the artist for turning objects often regarded as waste into works of cultural value. She noted that his sculptures have helped project Nigerian creativity to international audiences while drawing attention to environmental issues.

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Beyond the visual appeal of the sculptures, Reclaimed Beauty raises questions about consumption, waste management and the role creativity can play in addressing environmental challenges. By giving discarded materials a second life, Popoola invites visitors to reconsider what society throws away and what can still be created from it.

As visitors walk through the exhibition in Abuja, they encounter more than metal sculptures. They are presented with a different way of looking at waste, one that sees possibility where others see disposal. Through Reclaimed Beauty, Dotun Popoola continues to demonstrate how art can transform overlooked materials into objects that inspire conversation, reflection and appreciation.

Father’s Day coming up on June 21, 2026, is more than just another date. It is a day set aside to show appreciation to the men who have spent years offering guidance, support, encouragement, and sometimes even tough lessons that helped shape our lives.

For many people, shopping for dads is not straight forward as most fathers rarely tell you what they want. While mothers drop hints about things they like, fathers tend to say “Anything is fine” or “Don’t worry about buying me anything”. That response makes it difficult to know what gift they would actually appreciate while recognising that behind all these responses is a man who would value being celebrated.

While many fathers insist they do not need anything special, one thoughtful act can go a long way in making them feel valued. Choosing the right present does not always mean spending a huge amount. What matters most is finding something that matches his personality, interests, or daily routine.

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For dads who enjoys technology, gadgets such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches and accessories, portable speakers, or power banks can make everyday activities more convenient. These presents combine usefulness with modern style, making them suitable for fathers who like staying connected.

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For fashion-conscious dads, consider upgrading his wardrobe with quality outfits he can use regularly. A classic wristwatch, a fragrance, comfortable shoes, or a smart shirt can add a fresh touch to his collection. Some Nigerian fathers do prefer stylish native attires like senator wear, kaftans and agbadas from local designers. These are gifts that remain relevant long after Father’s Day has passed.

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For the father who loves relaxation, comfort-focused presents can be a pleasant surprise. A comfortable lounge set, personalized mug, or even a subscription to his favorite streaming service can help him enjoy his downtime after a busy day. Sometimes the simplest gifts become the most appreciated because they fit naturally into their regular routine.

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Food-loving dads may enjoy a special dining experience rather than expensive gifts. Preparing his favourite meal at home, organizing a family picnic, or taking him to a restaurant he has always wanted to try can create a lasting memory. Shared moments often leave a stronger impression.

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For sports-loving dads items from their favourite team, such as jerseys with their best teams badge or even a mug carrying the sticker of their top athlete, fitness accessories, or tickets to an upcoming match are worth considering. These gifts connect directly to their hobbies and shows that attention was paid to what interests them.

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For fathers who prefer a more personal approach, customised gift is a meaningful option. Framed family photographs and handwritten letters can carry emotional weight that no expensive material can match. Sometimes the most meaningful presents are the ones that remind a father of the people who matter most to him.

Of course, not every Father’s Day celebration requires spending money. A heartfelt message, phone call, or simply setting aside time to be together can create lasting memories. Many fathers value recognition more than presents, especially when it comes from the people they care about most.

Father’s Day is not really about finding the perfect gift. It is about appreciating the man who has offered support, advice, encouragement, and countless sacrifices over the years. The thought behind it is what carries the greatest meaning.

There’s a new wave quietly dominating Nigerian YouTube mostly in lifestyle content. The Nigerian IT Girls of YouTube are known for their realistic style, personality, consistency and how they present their everyday lives in a way that feels natural and relatable.

Some of these IT Girls include;

Diana Eneje

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Diana is often one of the leading examples when people talk about Nigerian IT Girls. She has mastered the art of making everything look effortless and real, and built a movie-like world that feels aspirational and endlessly watched. She began her career as a teen model in 2016. She is a prominent figure in Nigerian influencer culture.

Frances Theodore

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Frances Theodore a Nigerian digital creator and influencer is also part of this new wave of creators. She began to gain public attention as a content creator around the late 2010s, where she started consistently posting lifestyle and fashion content. She stands out as a modern influencer, her blend of ambition and authenticity makes her the kind of creator people aspire.

Amy Okoli

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Amy Okoli is a Nigerian lifestyle content creator, model and a social media influencer known for her exceptional vlogs and lifestyle beauty contents. Her journey began in 2018, when she officially launched her YouTube channel and started posting lifestyle vlogs consistently. She has grown to be one of the established Gen Z influencers.

Danielle Diana Dubem

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Danielle Diana Dubem popularly known as D3 is a Lagos-based lifestyle content creator. Her content usually includes lifestyle vlogs, fashion and beauty, storytelling and more. She began her journey in 2020, when she started posting consistently and building her personal brand. She is also heavily involved in editing and direction of her own content, which makes her content feel effortless.

Lucy Benson

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Lucy Benson a Nigerian fashion and lifestyle content creator built the space around her self-growth in a way that feels structured, honest, and deeply personal. She began to gain attention during the early 2020s when social media platforms like tiktok and instagram reels started becoming the main discovery platforms for new Nigerian influencers. She is now known for her visually driven fashion content.

Kamsi Nnamani

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Kamsi Nnamani is a Nigerian YouTube, fashion, and lifestyle content creator, known for her peaceful, aesthetic, and intentional living. She began her YouTube journey in the mid 2010s when she started with beauty and makeup related content before evolving into full lifestyle vlogging. Her content blends soft living with structure making her one of the creators people learn from.

One unique thing about this wave is how close creators feel to their audience, comment sections now often feel like conversations.

The Nigerian IT Girls are not trying to fit into an international standard from outside the country rather, they are focused on building their own version which reflects their environment, personality and everyday reality making it relatable to audiences.