Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said the creative industry can no longer be regarded as a pastime or mere hobby, describing it as a global force that is reshaping economies and creating opportunities across the world.
The governor stated this while declaring open the Creative Youths Experience, themed “Framing the Future Bootcamp”, held on Saturday at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. He stressed that the growth of the sector has made it a key player in global economic development.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun said his administration is determined to build an environment where creativity thrives, adding that the programme was not just an event but a movement that places youths at the center of innovation and cultural preservation.
“The creative industry is no longer a side attraction. It is now a global economic powerhouse, and we must treat it as such. Our youths must see photography, filmmaking, editing and other creative skills not just as survival tools but as pathways to global recognition and economic independence,” he said.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s policies on youth development, noting that they have opened doors of opportunity across the creative sector and reflect a commitment to empowering young Nigerians.
He assured that Ogun would continue to support youths with mentorship, resources and platforms to enable them lead Africa’s creative revolution.
Renowned filmmaker Tunde Kelani, in his remarks, urged participants to use their cameras with conscience, challenge authority, and celebrate beauty and hope.
He emphasized that photography and videography should be embraced as tools of cultural preservation and instruments of change.
On his part, the Chairman and CEO of NORD Motors, Mr. Oluwatobi Ajayi, charged youths to embrace determination, integrity and passion, stressing that the creative age is one where challenges must be defined as opportunities.
Convener of the Creative Youths Experience, Mr. Ayomide Ilesanmi, said the initiative was conceived to provide a platform for young people to thrive.
According to him, the three-month programme will equip participants with practical skills in photography, filmmaking, editing and film shooting, with top performers set to receive prizes “beyond their imagination.”
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