By Japhet Davidson

The BoT of Sculptors Association of Nigeria, ScAN has announced the appointment of Sculptor Ato Arinze, as the 4th substantive President of the association.
In a release by Sculptor Emmanuel Ubamadu, Secretary General stated that the appointment was made at the virtual 4th Annual General Meeting of the Sculptors Association of Nigeria, ScAN, held on Dec.17th, 2025.
Sculptor Arinze who served in Acting capacity, following his appointment by the BoT as an interim President, in March 2025 got a unanimous decision of the BoT to ratify his interim leadership, to a full substantive tenure based on his outstanding performance in the outgoing year. He will now serve additional 2 years to complete his full tenure.
Other members of his executive include; Emmanuel Ubamadu, Secrerary General, David Adeogun – Financial Secretary, Muraina Akeem – Treasurer, – Djakuo Kassi Nathalie – PRO, – Dr. Kunle Fajemirokun – Assistant Secretary, – Dr. Kenneth Njoku – VP, South South , – Prof. Chijioke Onuora – VP, South East , – Dr. Leni Satsi – VP, North East and – Prof. Ken Okoli – VP, North West
Ato Arinze is a distinguished Nigerian sculptor and potter known for both his realistic and abstract creations. Deeply rooted in his environment, his works reflect societal issues, drawing inspiration from nature and everyday life. Ato views the artist’s role as that of a journalist—observing, interpreting, and documenting the human experience through form and texture.
With a career spanning over three decades, he has been a full-time studio artist since 1992, working from his studio in Ayobo, Lagos. He is celebrated for his mastery in ceramics and sculpture, especially his expressive portraits and large-scale commissions. His technical skill and conceptual depth have earned him numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the visual arts.
Ato’s journey as an artist started in Zixton Secondary School, Ozobulu in Anambra State. After high school he furthered his training in Anambra State Polytechnic, Oko; then later completed his studies at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos with specialization in Sculpture.
He is the Co-founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Visions in Clay Artists Network (VICAN), and Coordinator of the Artzero Group—both platforms dedicated to the promotion of contemporary Nigerian art.
His works have been showcased in numerous exhibitions and are part of public and private collections both within Nigeria and internationally. Through his art and leadership, Ato Arinze continues to shape and inspire the future of sculpture and ceramics in Nigeria.