In a bid to unlock the creative potential of Nigerian youths, Betaminds Africa, a community of creative professionals is set to launch an initiative designed to empower young creatives and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in the creative industry.
In a statement sent to PUNCH Online on Saturday, the founder, Okunrotifa Ileriayo, said with the rise of digital technology and social media, more opportunities exist for young talents to showcase their works and connect with global audiences.
He said choosing a career in creativity can significantly impact Nigeria’s economy by reducing youth restiveness, promoting social stability, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
He stated, “The creative industry is a major contributor to economic growth and diversification. A strong example is Nigeria’s entertainment industry, which alone contributed over ₦400 billion to the country’s GDP in 2020.
“Creative exports such as music, film, and visual arts not only generate foreign exchange earnings but also reduce unemployment, alleviate poverty, and transform many young Nigerians into job creators.
“However, despite the enormous potential, young creatives in Nigeria face several challenges.
He added that infrastructure development, funding, and a favourable policy framework are crucial to supporting the industry.
“Key factors such as copyright protection, tax incentives, and investment in arts education must be prioritised to ensure sustainable growth”, he noted.
Recognising these challenges, Okunrotifa disclosed that he has teamed up with some professionals and facilitators – Oyewole O. Asifat, Ryzer Uffort, Adefolaju Michael, and Ayanleye Ayodeji – to advocate for creative industry growth. He emphasised that creativity can be a driving force for job creation, economic expansion, and poverty reduction.
He added, “However, many young Nigerians lack the necessary skills, knowledge, and support to navigate this field successfully. To address this gap, Betaminds Africa is set to launch an initiative in the second quarter of the year. The programme’s primary objective is to provide aspiring creatives with a comprehensive understanding of various career paths in the creative industry, enabling them to make informed decisions about their future.
“This initiative will include training and capacity-building programmes to equip young creatives with essential skills, workshops and mentorship programmes to offer guidance and support and an online community and social media platform where participants can connect, share ideas, and access ongoing resources.
“We must continue to introduce initiatives that drive youth involvement in creativity and empower them to build sustainable careers with their God-given talents. With this initiative, Betaminds Africa is taking a crucial step toward nurturing Nigeria’s next generation of creative professionals. By providing them with the right tools and opportunities, the organisation aims to shape a future where young Nigerians can fully harness their potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy”, he concluded.
