Lagos seeks greater ownership of Africa’s creative economy

The Lagos State Government has called for a shift from global recognition of Africa’s creative output to greater ownership and economic value creation, stressing the need for sustainable businesses, stronger intellectual property protection and increased investment in the sector.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, made the call at the opening ceremony of the SHOWBIZ101 Workshop 2026 held at Alliance Française, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Aregbe, who delivered the keynote address, described the workshop as an important platform for connecting African creatives with global stakeholders, exchanging ideas and building partnerships that can shape the future of the continent’s creative industry.

He said the workshop represented more than a capacity-building programme, describing it as “a bold declaration that Africa is ready, not only to participate in global creative conversations but to lead them.”

According to him, Africa’s growing influence in music, film, fashion, storytelling and digital content must now translate into ownership and measurable economic benefits for creators.

“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,” Aregbe said.

He noted that Lagos State sees the creative economy as a major driver of economic growth, tourism development, youth empowerment and global influence, adding that the sector extends beyond entertainment.

The Special Adviser said the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remained committed to strengthening Lagos’ position as Africa’s leading creative and cultural hub by creating an environment that supports innovation, investment and talent development.

He commended bridgeAFRIC, the organisers of the workshop, for creating a platform that brings together creative talent, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and stakeholders from across Africa and the diaspora to discuss opportunities in the creative economy.

Aregbe also appreciated the Government of France and other local and international partners for supporting initiatives to advance Africa’s creative vision.

He urged young creatives participating in the workshop to embrace learning, collaboration and discipline as key tools for success in the global creative space.

“Come for the workshop. Stay for the experience. Return for the opportunities. Make Lagos your second home,” he told participants.

The SHOWBIZ101 Workshop 2026 brought together professionals and emerging talents in the creative industry to explore strategies for strengthening Africa’s creative ecosystem, improving business structures and expanding global opportunities for African creators.