The Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Special Duties, Alhaji Yusuf Kamorudeen Olawale, has called for greater investment in Africa’s cultural and creative industries as a pathway to sustainable development, job creation and economic prosperity across the continent.
Yusuf made the call in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf at the 3rd Edition of the Afro-Cultural Conference held at the Adire Hall, Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State on Saturday.
The conference, themed “Cultural Renaissance and Creative Economy: Harnessing Africa’s Heritage for a Sustainable Future,” brought together traditional rulers, scholars, policymakers, business leaders, members of the diplomatic community and cultural enthusiasts from across the country.
Represented by Bayo Wahab and members of the Alliance for Kamosky group, Yusuf commended the organisers for convening what he described as a timely conversation on Africa’s cultural heritage and its role in economic transformation.
In his address, delivered by Wahab, Yusuf noted that Africa possesses immense cultural assets, including indigenous knowledge systems, languages, arts, fashion, literature, music and historical treasures capable of driving economic growth and social development.
According to him, the continent must look inward and harness opportunities within its creative industries, including film, tourism, fashion, crafts, music, digital content creation and cultural exports.
He said the creative economy remains a viable platform for youth empowerment, wealth creation, job generation and international engagement.
The presidential aide further stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to creating an enabling environment where culture, innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive as drivers of national development.
He noted that through policy reforms and strategic investments, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leading cultural and creative hub on the African continent.
He urged participants to use the conference as a platform to build partnerships, exchange ideas and develop practical strategies for transforming Africa’s rich cultural heritage into sustainable economic opportunities.
He also stressed the need for Africans to preserve their cultural values and ensure that the continent’s story is told by Africans.
In recognition of his contributions to leadership and humanitarian development, Yusuf was honoured with an Afro-Cultural Humanitarian and Leadership Award during the event.
