Lagos: Yinka Ade-Aluko, Chief Executive Officer of Doodle-Film Hub, has called on President Bola Tinubu to expedite actions on his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance Nigeria’s creative economy. Ade-Aluko emphasized education and skill development as vital initial steps towards establishing a thriving creative economy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ade-Aluko highlighted that the Renewed Hope Agenda offers a strategic framework designed to focus on projects and programs targeting the youth, potentially creating jobs and stimulating economic activities across the country’s cultural landscape. He proposed that the government should invest in education by establishing specialized institutions and vocational training centers focused on creative disciplines such as film, music, fashion, and publishing. These initiatives aim to equip young people with necessary skills, with collaborations among sectors and international organizations further enriching curricula to prepare Nigerian talents for the global stage.
Ade-Aluko also stressed the importance of robust funding for creative economy ventures. He suggested the government establish grants, low-interest loans, and investment funds tailored specifically for creative businesses and projects. Initiatives similar to the Small and Medium Enterprises support programs could empower young talents to realize their visions in areas like film and music production.
Discussing intellectual property rights, Ade-Aluko noted the need for strengthening legal frameworks to protect creative works, ensuring creators can monetize their innovations without fear of piracy. Public awareness campaigns and training on intellectual property could empower creators to safeguard their work.
Infrastructure development is also critical for the growth of the creative economy. Ade-Aluko advocated for significant investments in state-of-the-art studios, cinema theaters, art galleries, performance spaces, and co-working hubs, along with reliable internet access to enable digital artists and developers to reach global audiences. He also emphasized promoting film and music industries, organizing cultural festivals, and embracing digital transformation as essential for the creative economy’s growth.
Ade-Aluko explained that the creative economy encompasses a wide range of activities, including arts, design, and performing arts, which when combined, could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP. He pointed out that the global economy increasingly recognizes creativity and intellectual property as drivers of growth and innovation.
He concluded by asserting that under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on a thriving creative economy could lead to transformative results. By investing in education, funding, IP protection, infrastructure, and global collaboration, Nigeria can leverage its rich cultural heritage and youthful population to stimulate economic growth. Ade-Aluko described the creative economy as a “9ja Sure Bet,” promising prosperity, innovation, and a brighter future for the nation and its youth.
