Follow Us on Google
By Vivian Onyebukwa
In further recognition of the importance of Creative and Entertainment industry in the country, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), has re-launched it’s Creative and Entertainment Group in a dinner held in Lagos.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of LCCI, Dr Michael Olawale-Cole said creative and entertainment are not only integral to the nation’s economy, but also some of the very essence of it’s culture.
According to him, in an overview of GDP in Q2 of 2023 in real terms, the art, entertainment and recreation activity grew by 2.54 percent year-on- year which was higher than the rate recorded in Q2 of 2022 by 2.43 percent, points that this performance could be attributed to the current economic challenges.
Dr Olawale-Cole noted that despite all challenges, the sector has the power to, “Shape our world, ignite our passions, inspire our dreams and grow our economy. All the aspects of the industry brings joy, provoke thought, and provide avenue for us to express our shared human experiences”, he said.
He further stated that the theme of the event “Grand Re-Launching”, signifies the rebirth and rejuvenation of LCCI creative and entertainment sector. “It symbolises a fresh start, a new chapter, and a commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring uncharted territory. LCCI has been a steadfast supporter of innovation and entrepreneurship. We believe in the potential of our creative and entertainment sector to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote the rich diversity of our culture. Tonight, we re-affirm our commitment to fostering an environment where these industries can thrive and reach new heights. Let us remember that our creative and entertainment industry, hold the keys to our future, and they can inspire, challenge and unite us. Let us set our sights on a future where creativity knows no bounds and where entertainment knows no limit”, Dr Olawale-Cole said.
In her remarks, the Chairperson, Creative and Entertainment Group, LCCI, Dr Ngozi Omambala, stated that entertainment industry has grown organically on it’s own without any support from the government, which is why the LCCI want to support that, formalise it, creating infrastructure so it can grow and really play a significant part on the country’s GDP, which is evident in what bigger Nigerian artists are doing across the world. ‘I call entertainment industry a new oil”, Dr Omambala said.
She called on the youths to come on board and get involved as many have assured of their willingness to support the sector. “LCCI has so much to offer entertainment industry and I am looking to really form big alliances with some of the corporate, government agencies, as well as companies within the corporate and private sector. The entertainment industry is still a very young industry, but we need to step up, firmalise ourselves, create infrastructure for an enabling environment so we can grow, for the activity can increase. It can be a big sector with our nation forge in as well with hospitality, tourism. I feel that entertainment tourism is something that we need to look forward to. It is a very important companion within our GDP. Our Nigerian artists are doing well across the globe so we need to reflect within the LCCI of what is going on globally. That is why we have this re-birth of the entertainment sector”.
Dr Omambala used the opportunity to announce that in the history of Lagos International Trade Fair, one of the flagship of LCCI, which comes up very soon, LCCI in the 37 years in the history of it’s existence, will have entertainment village during the fair, where people will be entertained while the fair is going on.
The re-launch was a night of music, fashion, and art in an informal setting.
Some of the dignitaries who attended the event included President/Chairman of Executive Council, Dr Olawale-Cole, Immediate Past President LCCI, Toki Mabofunje, Life Vice President, Shade Bambatoum-Young, Deputy President, Gabriel Idahosa, DG, LCCI, Dr Chinyere Almona.
Others were Vice President, LCCI, Engr Leye Kupoluyi, Sir Ladi Smith, and Chairperson, Sally Ukpo, amongst other distinguished guests.
