President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for increased investment in Nigeria’s creative and digital economy, saying the country must convert its growing global cultural influence into lasting economic opportunities for Nigerians.
PBAT made the call in Paris during a meeting with Vincent Bolloré of Bolloré Group and senior executives of the company, where discussions focused on expanding investments in Nigeria across film, entertainment, fibre optics and the digital economy.
The President said Nigeria was experiencing a significant cultural moment globally, with Nigerian music, films, fashion and creative content attracting audiences and attention across continents.
“Our music fills stadiums across continents. Our films and stories are reaching new audiences. Nigerian creativity, fashion and culture are commanding global attention,” PBAT said.
He said the government’s priority was to ensure that the growing international demand for Nigerian creative content translates into economic benefits for the country, particularly through increased local production, investment and employment.
According to the President, Bolloré Group, through its businesses and partnerships involving Canal+, MultiChoice, Universal Music and others, is considering expanding its activities in Nigeria.
He said the companies recognise Nigeria as a major driver of Africa’s cultural growth, powered by the global appeal of Nollywood, Afrobeats and other aspects of Nigerian culture.
PBAT stressed the need for a greater share of the economic value generated by Nigerian talent to remain within the country.
“I want more of the value created by Nigerian talent to remain in Nigeria. More production at home. Greater investment in our local industries and infrastructure. More opportunities and jobs for our young people,” he said.
The President also reiterated his position on greater localisation by MultiChoice, noting that he had consistently advocated for increased local investment and production.
PBAT said the reforms being implemented by his administration were aimed at creating a more conducive environment for investment and economic growth.
“My responsibility is to ensure that these investments translate into real opportunities for Nigerians,” he said.
He described the drive to attract investment while creating jobs and expanding opportunities for Nigerians as a key objective of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.