The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Biodun Ajiboye, has called on Nigerians to embrace locally made products as a viable solution to the nation’s economic problems. Addressing the production and consumption patterns in Nigeria, he emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on imported goods while stimulating the local economy through cultural and creative industries. Ajiboye articulated that the fabric of Nigeria’s economy is intertwined with its cultural heritage and artisanship, and that tapping into these resources can significantly alleviate economic struggles faced by citizens.
During his address in Abuja, ahead of the upcoming craft fiesta, Ajiboye pointed out that many of the products Nigerians currently import are already available locally. He nostalgically recalled a time when clothes were made by local artisans without dependence on imported fabrics or foreign tailors. He lamented that over the years, the introduction of tailored clothing has undermined indigenous craftsmanship, which historically played a crucial role in local economies. The call to action, therefore, is not just about buying local but also about reviving and sustaining the traditional crafts and cultural production that defined previous generations.
The craft fiesta, as Ajiboye described, aims to empower local craftsmen and women by directly engaging them and providing a platform for their work. It seeks to bolster pride in locally made products and facilitate their marketability both locally and internationally. By encouraging artisans to showcase their works, NICO hopes to enhance the economic contributions of individual artisans, thereby positively impacting their communities and the broader economy. Ajiboye’s vision extends to creating a sustainable environment where artistic talents can thrive, contributing to essential economic indicators like the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Ajiboye highlighted that the initiative will select 20 artisans from each of the 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria, diversifying representation from various specialties. This targeted approach helps recognize and celebrate local talent while providing a pathway for artisans to gain exposure and achieve broader market access. He mentioned that the current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, is committed to fostering an environment conducive to artisan growth, focusing on strategies to promote cultural heritage as a cornerstone of economic recovery.
The structure of the craft fiesta involves multiple editions strategically spread across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones over 2025, with activities planned to last for one week at each location. This initiative offers artisans a significant opportunity to exhibit their creations to a wider audience, potentially drawing the attention of global markets. Ajiboye envisions that these fiestas will not only provide a commercial avenue for artisans but also help instill a sense of national pride in the local creative community, thereby rekindling interest in Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
In driving the made-in-Nigeria agenda, NICO aims to empower young artisans, recognizing their potential to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy. Ajiboye’s plans encompass a broader vision for artistic mobilization, aiming to position local craftsmen within a global context. With the nationwide craft fiesta as a foundation for this initiative, Ajiboye is hopeful that showcasing local talent in this manner will create lasting changes in perceptions about Nigerian craftsmanship, encouraging more citizens to support and invest in the local creative economy.
