The Embassy of Ukraine in Nigeria has unveiled a cultural exhibition in Abuja to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence, highlighting the country’s history, cultural heritage and enduring struggle for freedom.
The exhibition was opened on Sunday by the Ambassador of Ukraine to Nigeria, Mr Ivan Kholostenko, who said it was designed to present Ukraine beyond the ongoing war and showcase its centuries-old statehood, diverse cultural heritage and national identity.
The exhibition features traditional Ukrainian artefacts, photographs documenting the realities of Russia’s war against Ukraine, as well as patches and flags belonging to Ukrainian military units defending the country.
Its centrepiece is an interactive installation titled “Puzzle of Unity: Mapping Ukraine’s Identity through Culture and History.” The installation comprises a map of Ukraine made up of 20 puzzle pieces, each telling stories about the country’s people, architecture, art, traditions, inventions and historical events.
Kholostenko said the installation symbolised Ukraine’s unity despite its regional and cultural diversity, stressing that the country’s territorial integrity and national identity could not be altered by force.
He said Russia’s aggression was aimed not only at Ukrainian territory but also at the country’s historical memory, culture and identity.
“This is precisely the Ukraine that our soldiers are defending today,” the ambassador said, adding that they were defending their history, culture, families, communities and freedom.
The exhibition, supported by Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Union, is open to the public at the Ukrainian Embassy in Abuja.
The “Puzzle of Unity” was developed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Port of Culture, with support from the European External Action Service.
