Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday emphasised that Nigeria’s carnival industry holds significant potential not only for promoting the nation’s vibrant cultural heritage but also for fostering national unity, cohesion, and youth empowerment.
He assured that the Nigerian government is strategically positioning the country’s carnival sector to tap into the global carnival market, valued at an estimated $5 billion, as a key driver for economic growth.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima highlighted this vision during a meeting with the Abuja International Carnival delegation at the Presidential Villa.
He noted the valuable opportunities that the $5 billion global market presents to support Nigeria’s economic growth objectives.
“The value of the global carnival market is estimated at $5 billion. This underscores its potential to assist us in our economic growth agenda. Beyond promoting our rich cultural heritage, It is a driver for national unity and cohesion. We also have to look at the potential for economic value addition,” Shettima stated.
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Shettima reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to supporting youth-led enterprises in the creative industry, emphasizing its potential to boost employment and foster national unity.
He cited the global success of major carnival events like the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, which attracts up to 200 million visitors annually, and the Calabar Carnival, now integral to the cultural heritage of the Efik and Ibibio people.
“The Abuja Carnival used to be an even bigger event. I urge you to expedite efforts toward holding this event,” Shettima encouraged the Abuja International Carnival delegation.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, Shettima mentioned the $618 million Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) project, designed to support digital and creative sectors, including carnivals.
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In response, Kehinde Adegbite, Chief Executive Officer of the Abuja International Carnival, expressed appreciation for the Vice President’s support and shared plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy to revitalize the carnival.
“We met with the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who is creative-driven and agreed that we partner with the ministry for the project. The carnival brings unity, empowers the youths, and helps discover talents,” he said.
