The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has unveiled an exhibition marking the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence, showcasing the country’s culture, history and struggle for freedom.
The exhibition was opened by the Ambassador of Ukraine to Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, in Abuja on Sunday.
Kholostenko said the exhibition was designed to present Ukraine beyond the ongoing war by highlighting its centuries of statehood, cultural heritage and national identity.
He said it featured traditional Ukrainian cultural artefacts, photographs documenting the realities of Russia’s war against Ukraine, as well as patches and flags of Ukrainian military units defending the country.
The centrepiece of the exhibition is an interactive installation titled “Puzzle of Unity: Mapping Ukraine’s Identity through Culture and History”.
According to Kholostenko, the installation consists of a map of Ukraine made up of 20 puzzle pieces, with each piece telling a story about the country’s people, architecture, art, traditions, inventions and historical events.
“The front side displays artwork by contemporary Ukrainian artists, Sestry Feldman, while the reverse contains narratives that provide cultural and historical context.
“By assembling the puzzle, visitors literally put Ukraine together while discovering the diversity of its regions.
“None of these pieces can be taken away by force. The map carries deep symbolism amid Russia’s aggression,” he said.
The ambassador said the exhibition was intended to help Nigerians see Ukraine not only as a country fighting Russian aggression but also as a nation with a long history, rich culture and strong national identity.
He said the exhibition was supported by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Union.
The “Puzzle of Unity” installation was developed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the non-governmental organisation Port of Culture, with support from the European External Action Service (EEAS).
The exhibition is open to the public at the Embassy of Ukraine in Abuja.
