The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, has announced that admission to its galleries will be free to the public from June 15, 2026, in a move aimed at expanding access to art and cultural heritage in Nigeria.
The initiative, which will run for an initial period of three years, is being funded by philanthropists and art collectors Aisha and Gbenga Oyebode.
According to the museum, the programme represents the first time since its establishment that visitors will be able to access its collections and exhibitions without paying an admission fee.
The museum said the decision was designed to remove financial barriers that may prevent members of the public from engaging with art, culture and history, while encouraging greater participation in educational and cultural activities.
Museum Director, Jess Castellote, described the initiative as a major milestone in the institution’s commitment to accessibility and public service.
“This is an important moment in the history of YSMA. Making the museum freely accessible to the public removes an important barrier between people and culture,” he said.
Castellote noted that the initiative would enable more students, families, researchers, tourists, young creatives and other visitors to interact with Nigerian art and heritage.
He expressed appreciation to the Oyebodes for supporting a programme that aligns with the museum’s mission of promoting education, cultural engagement and public access to the arts.
Speaking on their decision to sponsor the initiative, Aisha and Gbenga Oyebode said museums play a critical role in fostering learning, reflection and social connection.
They noted that providing free access to the museum would enable more Nigerians, particularly young people, to experience the country’s artistic and cultural heritage without financial constraints.
The couple said the initiative reflects their belief in the power of cultural institutions to contribute to social development and civic engagement.
According to them, the Yemisi Shyllon Museum has emerged as one of Nigeria’s leading cultural institutions and deserves support that will broaden its reach and impact.
The development comes as the museum intensifies efforts to strengthen its position within Lagos State’s growing tourism and creative economy.
The museum recently engaged with stakeholders, including the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators and the Eko Tourism Foundation, as part of efforts to attract more visitors and enhance cultural tourism.
Located within the rapidly developing Ibeju-Lekki axis of Lagos, YSMA is expected to benefit from increased visitor traffic as free admission takes effect.
Established in 2019, the museum houses one of the country’s most significant collections of Nigerian art and has become a prominent centre for exhibitions, research, education and public discourse.
Museum officials expressed optimism that the free-access programme would boost cultural participation, encourage learning and further position the institution as a major destination for local and international visitors.