Government Money Is Not Auditory Money, It’s Real – Says Government Officials

Government officials emphasized that government funding for the creative industry is not just on paper but real money. The Executive Director of NFVCB, Mr.

Shaibu Husseini, and a Lagos State Government official, Mr. Gboyega, debunked the misconception that the funds allocated were fake.

They highlighted various funds, such as the 600m fund for the digital creative industry, which are backed by international organizations like AfDB and IDB. However, creatives have struggled to access these funds due to slow processing and lack of awareness.

Mr. Gboyega recommended collaboration among creatives to improve access to government funding.

Additionally, Mr. Husseini stressed the importance of differentiating between grant and loan components of the funds, with 80% dedicated to infrastructure development.

The NFVCB also commended the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy for securing a permanent headquarters for the board.