Piqued by the bleak future of Nigeria’s rich Theatre legacy, built over decades by the nation’s artists, prominent Nigerians, including Lagos State governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former governor of Cross Rivers State Donald Duke, and the chairman of Channels Television Dr John Momoh, have clamoured for the revival of the nation’s theatre industry to boost the country’s economic prosperity.
Eminent Nigerians who spoke at a press briefing to usher in the Lagos International Theater Festival, which will be held between November 14th and 17th, 2024, maintained that the country has much to gain from the theatre industry.
In his remark, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration focused on creating an enabling environment for the entertainment and creative industry because he knows if the country gets it right in that sector, it will not only help in laundering Nigeria’s positive image. Still, it will also provide a unique opportunity for the country.
He stressed that the creative industry would sell Nigeria to the world, urging senior industry actors like Joke Silva and Bimbo Emmanuel not to give up but to strive to mentor upcoming actors.
Also, in his remarks, the chairman of the Lagos International Theatre Festival planning committee, Dr John Momoh, commended the Lagos State governor for making the festival a reality, stressing that Nigerian men and women will make the festival a success because Nigeria can boast of good hands in the industry.
‘’I believe we have men and women who make this possible. Nigeria is not short of people; all we need is for them to give us the support and the necessary assistance. Nigeria can only be rescued by creative art. Where the trigger starts is Nigeria,” Momoh said.
In addition, Donald Duke said that a cosmopolitan state like Lagos needs exposed leadership because Nigeria has the largest film industry in the world.
He explained that Nigeria will celebrate their work by attending the international theatre festival.
“We have the largest film industry in the world; now we will be celebrating our work. I commend all of you for embracing the work of Bolanle Austin-Peters.
Earlier, the founder of the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF), Mrs. Bolale Austen -Peters said she was initially reluctant to take up the assignment but was motivated by the fact that it would create job opportunities for 24,000 young people.
“I was motivated by the fact that it creates job opportunities for 24,000 young people, which is why I embarked on the festival. The international theatre festival will start at the National Arts Theater, and we will make it interesting. We have taken plays to Dubai and South Africa, and the opportunity is great,” she said.
