By Muyideen Aliu, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described Nigeria’s creative sector as a vital driver of employment and economic advancement, encouraging young Nigerians to leverage their creative talents for national development.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bola Olukoju, at the Kwara Kre8 Workshop held at the Ilorin Innovation Hub, the governor stated that his administration is positioning the creative industry as a viable alternative to oil-dependent revenues.
“Creativity is transforming lives and energising economies, from design and film to fashion, digital art, and gaming. This is why we are prioritising it in Kwara State,” he said.
The workshop, themed “Professionalising Nigeria’s Creative Industry: Opportunities, Challenges, and Ethical Considerations,” was organised by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Hon. Fafoluyi Olayinka Solace, in collaboration with Adebisi Oyelere, the Lead Creative for Kwara Kre8.
Governor AbdulRazaq noted that the Ilorin Innovation Hub forms part of a broader state agenda aimed at equipping young people with digital competencies, supporting start-ups, and bridging the technology divide.
“In a country where oil is no longer a reliable path to prosperity, the creative economy offers a more inclusive future, one in which young people need only their talent and tools to thrive,” he added.
He further cited the establishment of the Sugar Factory Film Studio as part of his government’s support for the creative community, providing infrastructure for filmmakers, skit-makers, editors, and digital artists from across Nigeria.
“This facility is not just a physical investment. It represents our belief in the power of dreams, storytelling, and the global reach of Kwara’s creative talents,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Adebisi Oyelere underscored the significant contribution of creativity to Nigeria’s GDP and applauded the governor for consistently investing in youth empowerment and artistic innovation.
“Creativity is more than art. It is a key economic engine,” he said, while praising the state’s headline sponsorship of the training programme.
The workshop gathered dozens of rising digital artists, content creators, and innovators for sessions on monetisation, ethical practice, and the global potential of Nigeria’s creative industry.
