On Tuesday, the Lagos State government reaffirmed its dedication to capitalizing on the creative industry’s potential to boost its economy.
The State government plqn to exploring the creative industry as a means of further strengthening its economy, which is currently valued between $137 and $145 billion.The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke
Benson-Awoyinka, announced during a town hall meeting that Afropolis Lagos 2024
will take place from October 26 to November 3 in the state.
Benson-Awoyinka, along with Idris Aregbe, the Special
Advisor to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture,
emphasized the administration’s significant investments in the creative
industry.
The ministry has consistently demonstrated its unwavering
commitment to fostering and nurturing the industry’s growth over the past
several years.
“We have made significant investments in infrastructure,
such as renovating key cultural sites and establishing new venues for arts and
performances. These efforts ensure that our artists have the platforms they
need to thrive,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.
Afropolis 2024 is not merely an event; it is a celebration
of Lagos’s rich cultural heritage, creativity, and innovation.
“It is a platform where African creative people can come together to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and collaborate on groundbreaking projects. This festival is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic spirit of our continent. Lagos, as the host city, is proud to be at the forefront of this cultural revolution,” she added.
It Is worth noting that Lagos has gained recognition as the
largest global hub for black culture, showcasing its prominence in diverse
creative industries, including music, fashion, gaming, technology, design,
film, dance, artificial intelligence, and research.
In her opinion, emerging talents from Lagos are making
substantial progress on the international scene. Events such as Afropolis would
offer them the exposure and opportunities they rightfully deserve.
The founder and Artistic Director of Afropolis, Qudus
Onikeku, shared that the week-long cultural carnival is anticipated to draw
both domestic and international tourists.
It was mentioned that Made Kuti, the grandson of the late
Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, along with other artists from Nigeria and abroad,
would perform at the festival.