Lagos state governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former governor of Cross Rivers state, Donald Duke and chairman of Channels Television, Dr. John Momoh have craved for the revival of the theatre industry in Nigeria because of its capacity to create wealth and boost the economy.
The trio expressed their views at a press briefing to usher in the Lagos International Theater Festival, which holds between November 14 and 17, 2024.
According to Sanwo-Olu, his administration focused on shoring the entertainment and creative industry because if the country gets it right in that sector it will help in laundering Nigeria’s positive image and a unique opportunity to sell the country.
He urged the senior actors in the industry like Joke Silva, Bimbo Emmanuel not to give up but to help mentor the upcoming actors.
Dr. Mommoh, who is the chairman of the planning committee, commended the Lagos state governor for making the festival a reality, stressing that the Nigerian men and women will make the festival a success, because the country can boast of good hands in the industry.
“I believe we’ve got men and women that make this possible, Nigeria is not short of people, all what we needed is give us the support, give us the necessary assistance. Nigeria can only be rescued by creative art. Where the trigger starts is Nigeria,” Dr Mommoh said.
Duke in his remark said, cosmopolitan states like Lagos need a leadership that is exposed, because Nigeria has the largest film industry in the world.
“We have the largest film industry in the world, now we are going to be celebrating our own work. I commend all of you for embracing the work of Bolanle Austin-Peters.
“I want you to encourage this endeavour, this shows the cosmopolitan nature of your state. The more people we can get to work shows the credibility of your work, “Duke explained.
