Shettima Calls for Investment in Africa's Creative Sector

At the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend 2026 in Lagos, Vice President Kashim Shettima urged investors and financial institutions to provide early funding for African creative businesses, highlighting the sector's potential as a source of future global companies and economic growth. He encouraged African creatives to convert their international recognition into commercial agreements, emphasizing the importance of securing distribution contracts and partnerships.

Shettima noted that the Federal Government is enhancing intellectual property protection and expanding financing opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area. He called on African governments to eliminate barriers to accessing regional markets.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, announced over $600 million in financing for digital and creative enterprises through the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises programme. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the creative economy as a vital source of youth employment and export earnings.