December 02, (THEWILL) – Culture stakeholders in the country have expressed optimism of a better tomorrow following the recent roundtable hosted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy in Abuja. They said they could position culture and the creative industries so that the sector will be able to contribute immensely to the nation’s economy. There was hope when Culture Minister, Hajiya Hannatu Musawa, gave an overview of the ministry’s vision and agenda for the creative sector during the event held at the Presidential Villa where she addressed key players in the industries.
With the theme, ” Destination 2023, Nigeria Everywhere Initiative,” the minister said she projected to have N100 billion revenue from the creative sector. The roadmap include giving accurate data which will foster economic growth. Musawa was quoted to have said “We want to position Nigeria as the world’s culture, creativity and entertainment capital of the world.”
Head, Tourism and Creative Art Sector, Sterling Bank, Mrs. Abiola Adelana, said they are committed to making it a reality. “We (Sterling Bank) truly believe that Nigeria’s cultural influence should transcend borders,” she said. Adding: “Collaboration between government and stakeholders is necessary for the growth of the arts, culture and creative industry in the country.”
Adelana urged government to leverage financial expertise of banks in collaboration in order to propel the growth and sustainability of Nigeria arts, culture, and creative economy. In the same vein, she wants stakeholders to lend their support to government.
“Each one of us, with our creativity and passion, is an indispensable part of this narrative,” she said.
Everybody was concerned about the contribution of the culture sector to the nation’s economy which is insignificant. The National Bureau of Statistics put the GDP of culture and tourism to the economy at about two per cent day for many years. Generally, the culture practitioners said the new drive will have to change the perception of Nigeria culture and entertainment. It is important Vice President Kashim Shettima is backing the ministry to foster public-private sector involvement.
Shettima said the Bola Tinubu administration is set to make real its promise to turn the “Nigerian creative industry into a critical segment of the global economy.”
A Lagos-based artist, Mr. Seun Babalola said it makes sense pointing out that already the perception of culture is changing.
“People used to see culture as mere music and dance. Dancers come together and entertain people during festivals, they clap and go. Not anymore,” he said.
Adelana expressed her satisfaction on the ministry’s effort saying that during her visit to the Minister (Art, Culture and Creative Economy) after the event she understood that since she assumed office some months ago, “she and her dedicated team have been working relentlessly on a multitude of initiatives across various work streams.”
What the ministry is doing, it is believed, aligns with the Federal Government’s Destination 2030 plans to create inclusive, sustainable jobs, especially for youths in the Nigerian creative sector.
