The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a globally competitive African creative economy at the opening ceremony of the SHOWBIZ101 Workshop 2026 held at Alliance Française, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, 24th June 2026.
Delivering the keynote address, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe commended bridgeAFRIC for consistently creating a high-level platform that connects Africa’s brightest talents with global stakeholders to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and shape the future of the continent’s creative economy.
He described the workshop as “more than a training session,” calling it a bold declaration that Africa is ready not only to participate in global creative conversations but to lead them.
Highlighting Africa’s growing influence in music, film, fashion, storytelling, and digital content, the Special Adviser said visibility must now translate into ownership.
“The next chapter must be about building sustainable businesses, creating jobs, protecting intellectual property, attracting investment, and ensuring that African creatives fully benefit from the value they create,” he stated.
Mr. Aregbe, speaking to an audience comprising industry leaders, creative entrepreneurs, members of the diplomatic corps, media representatives, and young talents from across Africa and the diaspora, reaffirmed that Lagos State views the creative economy as a driver of economic growth, tourism development, youth empowerment, and international influence – beyond entertainment.
Under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, he noted that Lagos continues to consolidate its position as Africa’s leading creative and cultural hub, a city open to creativity, innovation, investment, and every creative mind regardless of background.
He appreciated the Government of France and all local and international partners for supporting Africa’s creative vision.
The Special Adviser urged young creative talent to learn boldly, collaborate intentionally, and invest in discipline, knowledge, and visionary orientation.
“Come for the workshop. Stay for the experience. Return for the opportunities. Make Lagos your second home,” he advised.
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