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Creative industry Nigeria’s next oil, says Lai Mohammed
NG🏛️ PoliticsCenter10 days ago

Creative industry Nigeria’s next oil, says Lai Mohammed

Former Nigerian Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, referred to Nigeria's creative industry as the country's 'next oil,' emphasizing its potential to create jobs and boost economic growth. Speaking at a meeting in Abuja between representatives of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Mohammed highlighted sectors such as film, music, fashion, and publishing as key drivers of economic development. He noted that the creative industry employs more people than any other ministry except agriculture. The discussion occurred amid efforts to align with President Bola Tinubu's goal of achieving a $1tn economy by 2030. NIPSS Director-General Prof Ayo Omotayo confirmed the institute's focus on the creative sector as part of broader economic strategy, acknowledging the need for increased policy research and collaboration to harness the sector's potential.

The Executive Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area in Kaduna State, Hon. Dr Salisu Isah, has hailed the launch of a ₦177 billion road reconstruction project as a transformative step for the region. The initiative, which involves the rebuilding of the 122-kilometre Mando-Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road, marks a significant milestone in the development of the area. Isah expressed deep gratitude toward President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for their continued dedication to enhancing security, infrastructure, and socio-economic conditions in the locality. He emphasized that the project represents the realization of a long-held dream for the people of Birnin Gwari. The road, which links Kaduna with other parts of northern Nigeria, is vital for the daily lives of farmers, traders, students, civil servants, transporters, and residents. Its completion is expected to significantly improve security, enhance agricultural productivity, stimulate commercial activity, create job opportunities, and ease the movement of people and goods. Isah noted that the road goes beyond being a mere infrastructure improvement, it symbolizes an investment in human development, national unity, and economic progress. He added that the project would restore confidence among the people and unlock numerous developmental opportunities for communities that have faced prolonged hardships. Isah recalled that President Tinubu had previously visited Birnin Gwari and personally observed the poor state of the road and the challenges faced by the residents. He highlighted that the decision to initiate the reconstruction project reflected the president's genuine concern for the welfare of the people and his commitment to resolving longstanding issues affecting the community. The chairman expressed deep appreciation for Tinubu’s leadership and his ability to translate concerns into actionable solutions. In addition to praising Tinubu, Isah acknowledged the efforts of Governor Uba Sani, particularly regarding the ongoing reconstruction of the 36-kilometre Bagoma-Gagumi Road. This project has progressed to an advanced stage and is anticipated to deliver enduring economic benefits to nearby communities. Isah also commended Sani for the renovation of Jibril Mai Gwari Memorial Hospital I and the construction of a modern abattoir and veterinary clinic. These developments are expected to enhance healthcare services, promote better public health, improve livestock management, and support local economic activities. Despite these positive developments, Isah urged both federal and state authorities to revisit the abandoned Gwargwaje-Zaria Road project, which began in 2011 and was later halted. If completed, the road would connect key communities, facilitate trade, and unlock greater economic potential for the region. He also requested the reconnection of villages in the eastern and western parts of Birnin Gwari to the national electricity grid. According to Isah, nine of the local government’s eleven wards still lack access to the national power supply due to years of insecurity and infrastructure damage. Restoring electricity, he argued, would greatly benefit education, healthcare, agriculture, small businesses, communication, and overall local development. Furthermore, Isah called upon the federal and state governments, development partners, and international organizations to prioritize the rehabilitation and upgrading of educational and healthcare facilities in the area. These institutions, he noted, have deteriorated over time due to neglect and disruptions. He also proposed the establishment of tertiary institutions, a Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination center, and functional skills acquisition centers in Birnin Gwari to further enhance educational and vocational training opportunities.

2 reports

The Punch logoThe PunchIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8512 days ago
Creative industry Nigeria’s next oil, says Lai Mohammed

Former Nigerian Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, referred to Nigeria's creative industry as the country's 'next oil,' emphasizing its potential to create jobs and boost economic growth. Speaking at a meeting in Abuja between representatives of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Mohammed highlighted sectors such as film, music, fashion, and publishing as key drivers of economic development. He noted that the creative industry employs more people than any other ministry except agriculture. The discussion occurred amid efforts to align with President Bola Tinubu's goal of achieving a $1tn economy by 2030. NIPSS Director-General Prof Ayo Omotayo confirmed the institute's focus on the creative sector as part of broader economic strategy, acknowledging the need for increased policy research and collaboration to harness the sector's potential.

Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically charged topic, economic strategy and the role of the creative industry, it presents information from both governmental and institutional perspectives without overtly favoring one side. The framing remains balanced, focusing on policy discussions and strategic,

Why factuality (90): The article presents statements from Lai Mohammed, a former minister, regarding Nigeria's creative industry. The content includes direct quotes and mentions of planned events like the National Summit and Exhibition on the Orange Economy. These details are consistent with public records and official

Why objectivity (85): The article is informative and forward-looking, presenting Lai Mohammed's views as a credible expert opinion. While there is some promotional language around the summit and exhibition, the overall tone remains professional and does not exhibit strong bias toward any particular political stance.

Vanguard Nigeria logoVanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8010 days ago
N177bn road project: Birnin Gwari Chairman applauds Tinubu, Uba Sani, seeks more devt

Hon. Dr Salisu Isah, Executive Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area in Kaduna State, praised the ₦177 billion road reconstruction project connecting Mando to Kaduna and Birnin Gwari. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani for their efforts in improving infrastructure and socio-economic conditions. The road is seen as crucial for farmers, traders, students, and others reliant on the route, promising improved security, agriculture, commerce, and employment. Isah highlighted the project as a historic intervention that reflects leadership committed to addressing community needs. He also acknowledged Governor Sani's work on the Bagoma-Gagumi Road and improvements at Jibril Mai Gwari Memorial Hospital I, while urging continued government support for additional infrastructure projects.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a positive assessment of government initiatives without overtly favoring any political ideology. While it praises specific leaders and policies, it does not exhibit strong ideological slant or one-sided framing. The tone remains balanced, focusing on the impact of the projects,雖

Why factuality (85): The article reports on a specific road project in Kaduna State, citing statements from the local government chairman. While no primary source is available, the information aligns with typical reporting on infrastructure projects and political commendations. The details about the project's cost, leng

Why objectivity (80): The tone is positive and celebratory, focusing on the benefits of the road project. While not overtly biased, the language emphasizes the significance of the project and the leaders' commitment, which may subtly favor the administration. There is no clear attempt to present opposing viewpoints.

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