By Usman Aliyu
Deputy Governor of Edo Dennis Idahosa, says government is ready to work with the creative sector to develop talents and expand opportunities across the state.
Idahosa gave the assurance while hosting members of the creative community at his office in Benin.
This is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, on Wednesday in Benin.
Idahosa said that the government recognised the sector’s role in youth empowerment and job creation.
”In view of this, the Okpebholo-led administration is always ready to work with you and support the growth of creative talents in the state,” he said.
The deputy governor also said that the state government would strengthen collaboration with creatives, noting that their contributions had helped advance the administration’s development agenda.
According to him, the abundance and actualisation of creative talents have helped to give meaning to government policies, especially those focused on youth empowerment, job creation and talent discovery.
He added that the impact of the creative industry had continued to reinforce the state’s ”SHINE Agenda” particularly in engaging young people productively.
Idahosa assured the group that their proposals would be considered, noting that the appointment of Solomon Okosun into government was a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to the sector.
”This government is not unaware of your inputs. The appointment of one of you into this administration shows our readiness to support the creative industry,” he said.
Earlier, the creatives, led by Okosun, who is Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy at the Edo Creative Hub, appealed for greater inclusion in government programmes and access to soft loans to support their work.
The group, drawn from across the three senatorial districts, include comedians, actors, musicians, filmmakers, photographers, content creators and other industry professionals.(NAN)