Lagos Creative Vault to Revolutionise Nigeria’s Creative Economy – Commissioner
LAGOS – The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has unveiled the Lagos Creative Vault as a transformative initiative designed to reposition Nigeria’s creative sector for global competitiveness and economic impact.
Speaking at the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, commemorating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sixth year in office, the Commissioner described the Vault as a visionary digital platform aimed at archiving creative works, accelerating talent development, and unlocking international opportunities for Lagos-based creatives.
Curated by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe, the Lagos Creative Vault will offer structured access to funding, training, mentorship, and international collaborations for filmmakers, musicians, animators, writers, and visual artists.
“The Vault is a game-changer,” Benson-Awoyinka declared. “It is a dynamic hub where creatives can showcase their work, attract investment, and build sustainable careers. With this platform, Lagos is building a future where creativity fuels inclusive economic growth.”
She added that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s long-term vision of professionalising the creative industry, promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage, and attracting foreign investment through a well-structured ecosystem that connects stakeholders across the value chain.
Beyond being a digital archive, the Vault will serve as a matchmaking platform for creatives to access grants, residencies, licensing deals, and other monetisation opportunities—laying the groundwork for a robust and sustainable creative economy.
In further highlights of the Ministry’s achievements, the Commissioner revealed that over 1,100 film permits were issued to independent producers in the past year through the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board. These permits supported a wide range of content including documentaries, feature films, commercials, and short films—underscoring the vibrancy of the state’s film industry.
On the global scene, she celebrated the screening of the Nigerian film My Father’s Shadow at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, describing it as a major milestone for the country’s creative storytelling.
“This recognition affirms the global relevance and appeal of Nigerian narratives,” she said.
The Commissioner also lauded the endorsement of Everybody Loves Jenifa, a recent film by Funke Akindele, by the State’s Film and Video Censors Board, noting it as a significant step in institutional support for high-quality local content.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth empowerment through creativity, Benson-Awoyinka highlighted initiatives such as Skill-Up Lagos, which trained 50 youths in indigenous raffia basket weaving, and Fola David’s Guinness World Record attempt for the longest drawing.
“Lagos is not just a city of dreams; it is a city where creativity is nurtured, talent is empowered, and the arts are given room to flourish,” she concluded.
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