For its new flagship store in Lagos, Adidas commissioned two pieces from Osoranna Mojekwu (b. 1999, Nigerian). The new store which just opened is the first of its kind in West Africa. Located on a prime waterfront site along Lekki Admiralty, it marks Adidas’s largest retail space in the region and its first-ever global waterfront store. Designed as more than just a shopping destination, the flagship blends sport, fashion, and art—anchored by Mojekwu’s large-scale installations that capture the spirit of resilience and community.
The commissioned pieces explore resilience and community—deeply personal themes for Mojekwu, shaped by his experience growing up Black and Nigerian in both the U.S. and Nigeria. “The assignment itself was titled community,” he says. “They [Adidas] are aiming to localize themselves within Nigeria. So when I was assigned the task to create a painting, that is the community I was able to reference.” The artworks then transform into a visual journal, capturing memories, movements, and identities through his layered process of self discovery.
In true contemporary African art fashion, the paintings incorporate recycled materials—beads, thread, and foil—to create richly textured, three-dimensional surfaces. Carefully painted outlines enhance the vivid, immersive effect, reflecting the layered complexities of youth, place, and belonging.
“It’s painting on canvas,” Mojekwu says, “But it’s not just two-dimensional. This piece is three-dimensional, and it’s supposed to showcase the dimensions of African youth.” He means this on both a metaphorical and technical level.The artworks harness the journey of self-discovery, treating time as a companion—one that grows stronger through community. They also reflect the vibrancy and diversity of contemporary West African culture, and how that energy has shaped the collaboration between Adidas and LATC. Together, they aim to set a new standard for global retail—rooted in Nigerian culture, youth, and creative expression.
“The whole point is to show this beautiful variety of Nigerian youth and how they build community among themselves,” Mojekwu says. “I want them to see themselves in the piece—but also to recognize others who may be different, and grow a deeper appreciation for that difference. You may be one figure in the painting, but there’s a whole world of people worth being curious about.”
The new Lekki store aims to immerse visitors in a curated world of apparel, footwear, and accessories. With cultural and artistic contributions from Nigerian creatives, the space will host a wide range of activities—from sunrise yoga and community hangouts to brand activations, youth clinics, special events, and local tournaments.
With a strong focus on highlighting the growing power of community among young Nigerians, the artworks speak to the strength found in unity and shared experience. They emphasize how youth-driven collectives and support systems are not just fostering connection—but actively shaping and powering contemporary culture.
Click here to check out Osoranna Mojekwu’s works.
