The Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Creative and Digital Economy (OSAPDICE) has joined forces with Wema Bank to foster growth and unlock new funding opportunities within Nigeria’s creative economy. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to enhance support for digital content creators, with a specific focus on areas such as YouTube content production. Fegho Umunubo, the Special Assistant to the President, emphasized that the initiative aims to replicate the successful Creative Fund model in collaboration with Wema Bank, ultimately expanding avenues for young, dynamic Nigerians to thrive in the digital space.
The partnership is rooted in meaningful dialogue aimed at advancing numerous projects within the creative industry, according to Tunde Mabawonku, the Executive Director of Digital Bank at Wema Bank. This collaboration covers various sub-sectors including film, fashion, art, and design, all crucial components of the creative industry. Mabawonku highlighted the importance of building upon previous industry initiatives to create a more comprehensive support structure for aspiring and established creative professionals. The partnership focuses on generating significant changes within these sectors by establishing viable funding frameworks that encourage innovation and creativity.
In addition to funding, the collaboration has extended to exploring broader interventions within the creative sector. Notably, the initiative includes plans to implement fashion training programs in Jigawa, Enugu, and Ogun States. These training programs aim to equip individuals with practical skills essential for success in the fashion industry. Wema Bank also mentioned an immediate action item involving collaboration with the Enterprise Development Centre to offer a business-focused course in Calabar. This course will focus on equipping creative entrepreneurs with vital tools related to strategy and branding, emphasizing the importance of professional development in driving the creative economy forward.
The range of programs that OSAPDICE and Wema Bank plan to roll out spans several key Nigerian states, specifically targeting Jigawa, Enugu, Cross River, Lagos, and Ogun. This strategic geographical focus aims to ensure that the initiatives reach diverse populations, thus maximizing their impact on the country’s creative landscape. By addressing various aspects of the creative economy, such as skill development and financial support, the partnership seeks to create a holistic environment where creativity can flourish and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Both parties have expressed a commitment to advancing their partnership with an aligned vision directed towards strengthening Nigeria’s creative and digital landscapes. This entails not only addressing immediate funding needs but also creating sustainable growth pathways for Nigerian creatives. The collaboration seeks to inspire a new generation of creatives, highlighting the necessity of practical solutions tailored to their needs and aspirations. By fostering such an environment, the partnership endeavors to pave the way for future leaders in the creative industries.
In conclusion, the collaboration between OSAPDICE and Wema Bank heralds a promising future for Nigeria’s creative economy. With a focus on practical solutions and funding opportunities, the partnership is set to play a transformative role in uplifting the creative sector. By investing in training programs and providing resources for digital content creators, both parties aim to create an ecosystem where creativity thrives and contributes to broader economic growth. As they continue to build on their shared goals, the future of Nigeria’s creative industry appears increasingly bright, driven by the innovative potential of its youth and the support of established institutions like Wema Bank.
