Ekiti’s Creative Industry Poised for Economic Boom, Says Governor Oyebanji
... As Annual EKIFEST 2024 Kicks Off in Ekiti
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated his commitment to significant and progressive investment in the arts and culture sector, aiming to drive economic prosperity for the state’s citizens. This statement came as the Ekiti State Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) commenced on Tuesday.
Addressing the audience at the opening of the 2024 EKIFEST, held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, emphasized his government’s efforts to diversify Ekiti’s economy through substantial investments in the creative industry.
The governor highlighted that while agriculture and education have long been pillars of Ekiti’s economy, there is a strategic push to harness the potential of the creative sector. “This festival was launched to foster unity, social cohesion, and community engagement; in addition to providing a platform for artistic expression, skill development, and talent discovery,” he said.
The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, was honored with the ‘Award of Grand Matron of Arts and Culture’ in recognition of her contributions to the sector. She reiterated her support, particularly noting the Adire Hub initiative, which aims to provide youth employment and preserve the state’s cultural heritage.
Governor Oyebanji assured participants of their safety during the festival and highlighted the anticipated economic benefits from the influx of tourists, which would boost the hospitality and tourism sectors. He underscored the festival’s role in promoting cultural tourism, entrepreneurship, and creativity, contributing to inclusive growth and social equity.
In a major announcement, Oyebanji revealed plans for constructing a modern Ekiti State International Centre for Arts and Culture. This center is expected to be a hub for creative practitioners to showcase their talents and collaborate on ideas. “Our administration is committing itself to constructing one of the biggest multi-purpose arts and culture infrastructures in Nigeria,” he said, referencing the recent foundation-laying ceremony for the center.
Additionally, the governor highlighted the approval of a single-digit loan for active members and associations within the state’s creative sector, aimed at stimulating creative entrepreneurship and focusing on arts and crafts production.
Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Prof. Razak Ojo Bakare, projected that the new center would employ over 20,000 practitioners, furthering innovation and enriching the lives of Ekiti’s citizens. He emphasized the economic and social value of the creative arts and culture sector in generating employment and preserving cultural identity.
The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Ekiti State Head of Service Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands Eniola Ajayi, among others.
