VP Kashim Shettima highlights Nigeria’s carnival industry as a driver for economic growth, youth empowerment, and national unity.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced on Wednesday that Nigeria’s carnival industry holds tremendous potential not only to showcase the country’s cultural heritage but also to foster national unity, youth empowerment, and economic growth.

Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with the Abuja International Carnival delegation, Shettima expressed the government’s commitment to elevating the carnival sector as a strategic component of Nigeria’s economic agenda.

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In a statement issued by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Vice President, Shettima emphasised that the global carnival industry, valued at approximately $5 billion, offers a viable economic avenue for Nigeria.

“The value of the global carnival market is estimated at $5bn. This underscores its potential to assist us in our economic growth agenda,” he said.

The Vice President pointed out that beyond financial gains, Nigeria’s carnival industry could foster unity by bringing together diverse ethnic groups to celebrate a shared cultural identity.

Shettima highlighted the popularity of international events like Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro Carnival and Nigeria’s own Calabar Carnival, which has become a cultural mainstay for the Efik and Ibibio communities.

He encouraged the Abuja International Carnival delegation to restore the event to its former prominence, noting that the Abuja Carnival once held a strong place in the cultural calendar.

“The Abuja carnival used to be an even bigger event. I urge you to fast-track all efforts toward holding this event,” he said.

The Vice President also mentioned that the government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has invested in the Digital and Creative Enterprises programme, a $618 million initiative aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s digital and creative industries, with carnival development as a key focus.

This support, he noted, reflects the administration’s belief in the carnival industry’s role in creating job opportunities and strengthening national identity.

Kehinde Adegbite, CEO of the Abuja International Carnival, expressed gratitude to Shettima for his support and shared plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy.

“The carnival brings unity, empowers the youths, and helps discover talents,” Adegbite stated, describing the carnival as a platform for youth empowerment and talent discovery.

With robust backing from the government and planned partnerships across ministries, Nigeria’s carnival sector is poised to make a significant impact on the country’s economic landscape, promoting unity while creating pathways for young Nigerians in the creative industry.