Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have praised Nigerian-American artist Njideka Akunyili-Crosby, daughter of late Professor Dora Akunyili, for creating their official portrait for the Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago.

Michelle Obama described the artwork as extraordinary, commending Akunyili-Crosby’s artistic brilliance and the life and joy she infused into the piece. Barack Obama also expressed admiration for the portrait, saying it looked fantastic.

Speaking on the project, Akunyili-Crosby revealed that she studied the couple’s books, interviews, podcasts, and videos to create a work that reflected their personalities and legacy. The portrait will be displayed at the Obama Presidential Center, which is scheduled to open to the public on June 19.