The Kano State government has approved the hosting of a landmark National Summit on Harnessing the Creative Industry to boost Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The state Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the pproval followed “a compelling proposal” forwarded to the government by the Kannywood Foundation which emphasised Kano’s pivotal role as the cultural and creative capital of Northern Nigeria.
He said the summit will “serve as a strategic platform to unlock the vast potential of Kano’s creative industry, which includes film production, fashion, artisanal craftsmanship, music, literature and digital content.”
Waiya added: “The Summit is projected to attract key stakeholders from across the country, including international development partners, federal ministries and agencies, creative entrepreneurs, investors and global digital platforms such as Netflix and Amazon.
“Discussions will centre on leveraging the creative sector to diversify the economy, generate employment and stimulate innovation across communities.
“To ensure effective planning and execution of the event, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has also approved the constitution of a Local Organizing Committee (LOC), comprising major stakeholders from the government, the private sector, creative industry associations, traditional institutions and academia.
“The summit is not just an event, but a strategic initiative to position Kano State at the forefront of Nigeria’s creative economy.
“Kannywood, our indigenous film industry, and our world-renowned artisans are gaining the recognition they deserve.
“Through this summit, Kano aims to stimulate sustainable economic growth, engage our youth and unlock new development opportunities in line with the Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s people-oriented vision.”
He called on all relevant stakeholders to “lend their support and commitment to the success of this historic initiative which is in line with the administration’s broader objectives of youth empowerment, economic diversification and cultural renaissance.”
