THE National Delegates Convention of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) concluded on November 11, 2023 in Asaba, Delta State, with a focus on transforming the Nigerian creative economy.

Delegates from 12 state chapters, as well as representatives from guilds, affiliates, and industry stakeholders, gathered to deliberate on policies aimed at reshaping the theatre arts profession.

Under the theme “Building a Borderless Market to Unlock the Potentials of the Nigerian Creative Economy,” the convention highlighted the imperative for theatre practitioners to rebrand, rebuild, and create opportunities for networking in the evolving socio-political and economic climate of the country.

In his opening remarks, President of NANTAP, Israel Eboh emphasised the necessity of a new approach to professional practice, addressing challenges such as inadequate funding, inconsistent official policies, harsh economic conditions, lack of synergy between training institutions and practice, insufficient infrastructure, and minimal government support.

An engaging, hybrid panel session, featuring Julie Eason from the Art Fundraisers (UK), Yibo Koko representing the Rivers State Tourism Board, Franca Idemudia from Clevenard.Com (Spain), and Alhaji Adedayo Thomas from the National Film and Video Censors Board, offered a hands-on exploration of the theme. The session underscored the vital role of cultivating relationships and ensuring tangible impacts in all endeavours. This approach, it was emphasised, is crucial for retaining funders, sponsors, and cultivating a loyal audience. The speakers stressed the importance of comprehending existing policies and leveraging them to meet our specific needs.

At the NDC deliberations proper, delegates and participants engaged in frank discussions about the current state of theatre practice in Nigeria and recognised the need for advocacy to improve the practice environment. Resolutions were made to:

Create Awareness and Rebranding: Urgently raise awareness among theatre artists and move towards rebranding the profession in the new dispensation.

Capacity Building: Develop a carefully crafted scheme of education in the core business of theatre for capacity building.

Business and Economic Venture: Stress the idea of theatre as a business and economic venture. NANTAP has registered its business under the name: TAP VENTURES NIGERIA LIMITED.

Safety and Security: Conduct theatre practice in a safe and secure environment, with greater attention to safety in and around theatre buildings and institutions.

Advocacy for Cultural Ministry: Advocate for the establishment of a standalone ministry for culture and tourism, expressing concern over the break-up of the ministry into two sectors.

National Theatre Renovation: Express deep concern about the ongoing renovation of the National Theatre, emphasising the need for considerations that enhance cultural and performance atmosphere.

The 2023 National Delegates Convention climaxed with a dinner and investiture ceremony where more than a dozen practitioners were decorated with the highest honour of the association: Fellows of Theatre Arts. They include Alhaji Adedayo Thomas, Professor Gbemisola Adeoti, Prof. Friday Nwafor, Mrs. Ruth Osu, Patrick Omo Otoro, Kayode Aiyegbusi, Ngozi Duru, Keneth Uphopho, Patrick Okonkwo, and Kayode Longe.