In the sun-drenched streets of Lagos or the bustling markets of Abuja, even the landscape terrain of Auchi, the magic of basketball has a way of captivating young Nigerian minds, inspiring dreams of soaring through the air and dunking basketballs with ease. Even the shortest of children in the crowded alleys of Port Harcourt or the sun-kissed fields of Benin or the rising sun from Katagum can envision themselves as the next basketball superstar, their imagination fueled by the towering figures of professional players.

Ashikodi – Ebuh Okwudili’s sculpture, “Slam Dunk,” captures the raw energy and dynamism of the game, echoing the infectious beats of dreams and the beat of heart Africa’s creativity is known for, especially the resilience of the Nigerian spirit.

Slam Dunk was created as his final year project at the School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi in the late 1990s, the piece is a celebration of basketball’s unbridled passion and movement.

As we gaze upon “Slam Dunk,” we are reminded that sports have the power to bring joy and freedom to our lives, much like the liberating rhythms of traditional Nigerian music and dance.

Ashikodi – Ebuh Okwudili’s passion for basketball shines through in every detail, drawing the viewer into the world of the sculpture. This piece is more than just a work of art, it’s a tribute to the dreams that basketball inspires in us all, and the boundless potential that lies within Nigeria’s youth.

He is renowned today for his towering projects and commissions, scattered in some parts of Nigeria. His energy and resilience remain a symbol and proud ambassador of School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, Klass of ’99.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Images/Artwork/Photographs

/Ashikodi – Ebuh Okwudili