Female artist urges FG to create dedicated bank for arts, creative industry
Call for Creative Bank in Nigeria to Support Youth
Abeokuta, Nigeria – The Federal Government has been urged to establish a specialized bank for creatives, akin to existing institutions for agriculture and industry, to bolster Nigeria’s youth-driven creative sector. The appeal was made by Aminat Olajide, founder of The Artitude Centro, during an event on Thursday.
Olajide emphasized that such a financial institution would empower young artists, designers, writers, musicians, and other creatives to expand their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the nation’s economy. She acknowledged the Ogun State government’s efforts to support local businesses but stressed the need for additional measures to address unemployment and empower aspiring entrepreneurs.
“The government is trying, but there is room for improvement in supporting creatives and young people who are contributing to the economy and enhancing the country’s GDP,” Olajide said.
She proposed the establishment of a “bank of creatives,” similar to current banks supporting agriculture and industry, to facilitate access to funding and grants. “If the government can create something like a bank for creatives, we can present our proposals, and they might better understand our needs compared to traditional banks,” she noted.
Olajide pointed out that lucrative grants often favor the agricultural sector, a situation she believes should extend to the creative industries as well.
At the same event, Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Ogun State Chapter, called for policies that favor small and growing businesses, including tax-free holidays. Boye criticized the “get rich quick” mentality prevalent among Nigerian youths and urged the government to support dedicated entrepreneurs committed to building legitimate businesses.
“The government can create an enabling environment. Tax-free holidays for small businesses will help them thrive, especially startups and sole proprietorships,” she said.
Boye further advocated for more accessible policies for aspiring entrepreneurs, indicating that stringent regulations can discourage business initiatives. “When the government encourages them through loans and grants, the sky would be their limit,” she added.
Olamide Lawal, Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, highlighted the Dapo Abiodun administration’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships. He encouraged youths to leverage available opportunities and avoid criminal activities.
