Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has said the creative industry is not only a form of entertainment or art but a powerful contributor to economic development and job creation in Nigeria.
He made this known on Thursday at the “Kwara Kre8 Workshop” held at the Ilorin Innovation Hub. The workshop was themed “Professionalizing Nigeria’s Creative Industry: Opportunities, Challenges, and Ethical Considerations.”
Represented by the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bola Olukoju, the Governor stated: “Creativity is transforming lives and powering economies from design to film, music to fashion, digital art to gaming. That is why we take it seriously in Kwara State.”
AbdulRazaq emphasized that as oil revenues become unsustainable, Nigeria must look toward sectors that offer long-term value. “In a country where oil revenues are no longer sustainable, the creative economy provides a sustainable and inclusive alternative, one where young people don’t need to ‘know anyone’ to succeed, but only need their talent and tools,” he said.
The Governor pointed to the administration’s investment in digital infrastructure and creative spaces as a way to boost youth employment and digital entrepreneurship. “We have continued to support the creative community in Kwara State in practical ways, because we believe in the power of ideas and artistic expression,” he added.
He highlighted government partnerships with content creators, creative brands, and influencers, explaining that these efforts are designed to build an environment where creativity is recognized and rewarded.
As part of the initiatives, AbdulRazaq mentioned the creation of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, which supports ICT development and startup growth. “This initiative helps to nurture startups, grow ideas, and bridge the tech skills gap among young people in our state,” he explained.
He also spoke about the newly developed Sugar Factory Film Studio, describing it as a platform to elevate content creators across Nigeria. “This facility is not just an investment in infrastructure, it is an investment in dreams, stories, and the global reach of Kwara-born creatives,” the Governor stated.
The Kwara Kre8 Workshop was organized by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Hon. Fafoluyi Olayinka Solace, in partnership with Adebisi Oyelere, the Lead Creative for the project.
Oyelere, while speaking to participants, praised the state’s growing commitment to the sector. “Creativity is not just an art, but a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economy,” he said.
He also commended the government’s headline sponsorship of the workshop and expressed appreciation for infrastructure such as the innovation hub, the visual arts center, and the Sugar Film Factory. “The huge investments in the industry such as the construction of the innovation hub, where we are currently, the visual arts center, and sugar film factory, avail us a great opportunity to create better and make more profitable impressions,” Oyelere said.
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The Kwara Kre8 initiative continues to attract talented youth and shape future opportunities in the digital and creative industries.