FG urged to boost investment in creative industry

Table of Contents

360 Grand TV has called on the federal government to channel greater investment and attention into the country's creative sector, particularly the dance and performance arts.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday ahead of the Grand Awards - Nigeria's first-ever awards platform dedicated solely to dancers and performers - Henshaw Victory, convener of the event and founder of 360 Grand TV, emphasised the need for structural and financial support in the sector.

'We need more theatre spaces - fully functional ones.

'We need funding, we need workshops, we need knowledge exchange platforms for dancers to train and grow. That's what happens in developed countries - government investment in the arts helps fuel creativity and employment,' Victory said.

He said the Grand Awards aims to honour Nigeria's vibrant dance culture, recognising not just popular performers but the entire ecosystem - from choreographers and studio instructors to digital content creators.

'This is more than an awards night. It is a movement - a platform that celebrates, empowers, and gives visibility to Nigerian dancers both at home and abroad,' Victory stated.

According to him, this year's edition will feature over 30 award categories, encompassing various genres and contributions in dance, from traditional to street and digital.

'In response to the changing digital landscape, five new categories have been added, including TikTok Dancer of the Year, Most Influential Dancer of the Year, New Wave Choreographer of the Year, and Outstanding Locking Dancer.

'Nominations will be open from 20th July to 10th August, to be submitted exclusively via the official website www.thegrandaward.com. Voting will follow from 24th August to 14th September, offering the public a chance to participate in selecting this year's winners.

'The award ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, promising a night of glamour and celebration,' he said.

In her remarks, Zana Ime, a partner from Destination Dreamers Ltd, echoed Victory's call for government engagement, stressing that the entertainment industry - particularly dance - holds economic and cultural potential that has yet to be fully tapped.

'Imagine a modernised dance festival that's treated like a cultural carnival. Investors would come in, people would travel, and it would not only promote tourism but add joy and vibrancy to the nation,' she said.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).