IT’S an honour to stand before you today, immersed in the artistry of “The King Must Dance Naked,” a timeless masterpiece revived by the dedicated efforts of the Lufodo Productions team, produced by the talented Soji Jacobs.

This play is not merely a stage performance but an integral part of our cherished memories, shaping our childhood experiences. Witnessing the revival of this iconic piece by the dedicated Lufodo team invokes a sense of nostalgia, promising a glimpse into the glorious past while embracing the innovative spirit of the present.

Nigeria’s creative economy is a vibrant tapestry woven with remarkable talent and unexplored potential. Formalising this sector is imperative to harness its prowess fully. Transitioning from its current fragmented state to a structured and interconnected industry with formal systems is pivotal. At Sterling One Foundation, we are dedicated to supporting this evolution through various initiatives.

Our commitment to the creative industry is exemplified through supporting and nurturing the Nigerian creative industry. Our initiatives, such as the recent panel session at the Africa Social Impact Summit, focused on reshaping the narrative of the creative economy. This platform was instrumental in devising innovative strategies to bolster funding and elevate the creative industry, leveraging the power of media and entertainment.

Youth development stands as a cornerstone of our efforts. Initiatives like Y-Novate and WESDEP empower young minds by imparting tech skills, fostering innovation, and enhancing employability.

The National Bureau of Statistics data underscores the substantial employment generated by Nigeria’s creative sectors, spanning media, entertainment, beauty, tourism, and more. With over 4.2 million individuals employed, the potential for further job creation and GDP contribution is immense. This is precisely why we lend our support to initiatives like the Lufodo theatre production, “The King Must Dance Naked.”

A thriving creative economy could very well surpass our oil industry, especially considering Nigeria’s wealth of talented youths.

Nigeria’s creative prowess has garnered global acclaim, particularly in music, films, and art, amplifying our rich culture and driving tourism. The importance of data collection, robust frameworks, and accessible finance cannot be overstated as pivotal catalysts for industry growth.

Today, I implore us all to foster collaboration among stakeholders across the creative and entertainment spectrum. Together, we can amplify the sector’s impact and propel Nigeria’s creative economy to unrivaled heights.

On behalf of the Board of Sterling One Foundation and the Managing Director/CEO of Sterling Bank, I extend our sincerest gratitude for your presence tonight. Your attendance at this event is deeply appreciated and speaks volumes about your support for the arts and our collective endeavors. Thank you.

Let us now immerse ourselves in the magic of “The King Must Dance Naked” and continue our journey towards an enriched and prosperous creative landscape.