Nigeria Lost the Battle for Industrialisation, We Can Win the Battle in the Creative Industry – John Ugbe
By Ndifon Joseph – Calabar
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of West Africa, MultiChoice, Mr. John Ugbe, has asserted that Nigeria, once heralded as a beacon of industrial potential in Africa, has faced significant setbacks in its quest for industrialization. However, he assured that new opportunities have emerged in the creative industry.
Mr. Ugbe made this declaration on July 19, 2024, during The Bridge Leadership Foundation’s 14th Career Day Conference. The event, themed “The Creative Economy: Building Nigeria’s Future Through Youths’ Innovation,” was held at the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC), Calabar.
He highlighted the creative industry as a burgeoning sector with immense potential, emphasizing that while Nigeria may have lost the battle for industrialization, it is well-positioned to win in the creative economy.
“One of the advantages Nigeria has is its substantial population of young people. We lost the battle for industrialization. We can win the battle in the creative industry.”
Mr. Ugbe also reiterated the importance of recognizing and harnessing the potential of the industry, while calling for concerted efforts from both the public and private sectors to support and nurture this vibrant sector.
“We need a supportive ecosystem that promotes indigenous languages in production. We need funding and public/private partnerships, incentives and markets. We need the right laws, legal and intellectual property protection, the right behavior, and the will to protect other people’s intellectual property,” he concluded.
Chioma Ude, founder of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), echoed the call for governmental support, highlighting the critical need for investment in youth-driven initiatives.
“The government needs to support the creative industry. This is because the future awaits us if we invest in our youths. Let’s build a creative industry that will stand out in the global space.”
Dr. Busola Tejumola, a prominent speaker and Executive Head of Content and Channels for West Africa at MultiChoice, shared insights on personal growth and professional success within the creative industry, emphasizing the importance of continuous self-improvement and strategic branding.
“Keep learning; consistency, patience, and diligence are key. Be disciplined and consistent. Personal development and branding are crucial.”
Earlier, in his Welcome Address, the founder and former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, extended warm pleasantries to attendees and expressed optimism about the event’s outcome.
“I extend a warm welcome to our distinguished speakers, panelists, participants, and all experts in Nigeria’s creative industry. I welcome you to this edition. It’s going to be a fruitful one,” he remarked, setting an enthusiastic tone for the day.
The event, marked by vibrant discussions and exchanges of ideas, was well attended by members of the political class, captains of industry, top government functionaries, civil society organizations, the press, and students from secondary and tertiary institutions. Notable attendees included the member representing Boki II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA), Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, DG National Council of Arts and Culture, Obi Asika, and Mr. Eric Ugbe, the CEO of Hit FM, Calabar, among others.