The Creative Industry Group, a coalition of the entire creative sector comprising record label owners, recording artistes, artistes, comedians, film producers and fashion designers, has endorsed Jimi Agbaje, the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos, for the office. The occupant of the office is of interest to the industry because the Creative sector principally revolves around Lagos.

By this endorsement, the sector “urges all its members in the music, film, fashion and literacy sectors to go out and vote for Jimi Agbaje as the next governor of Lagos.” The group pointed out that though the industry has been ignored for several years, it has remained the number one provider of jobs to the teeming youth.

The group notes that its influence among the youth is a game-changer for any political aspirant because of its enabling role in influencing and moulding the opinion and behavior of the youth, which forms the largest chunk of the electorate. Afrobeat/Afropop, Nigeria’s homegrown musical industry, has vastly influenced pop culture, enjoying millions of streams and downloads on international platforms and generating billions in revenue. Its Nollywood arm has also exponentially grown to command a huge global presence and attracting massive investment opportunities. Creative arts practitioners have also enjoyed huge patronage from corporate circles due to lucrative endorsement deals it gets.

Despite these feats, the group bemoans the inadequate and lukewarm attention it gets from the government regardless of the recognition and benefits it has garnered locally and internationally. It is particularly bereft at government’s inability or unwillingness to assist it in stamping out piracy which is stifling the industry locally.

But, having noticed the frequent pronouncements of Jimi Agbaje on the campaign trail during the campaign trail on his plans on his willingness to work with the sector which is basically headquartered in Lagos, to harness its benefits and potentials.

Responding, Agbaje expressed his appreciation to the Creative Industry Group for the gesture and aiding him in the task of emancipating Lagos through its readiness to partner with him to rescue Lagos from the oppressor.

He said: “The creative industry’s astuteness in realising that its interests are best served by an Agbaje administration is an indication that the “Freedom for Lagos” campaign is resonating with not just the ordinary Lagosiain but creative stakeholders in turning the fortunes of the state around for the best too. As a prominent income-generating industry for the state and foremost employer of labour of our teeming youth, the creative industry is important. I will continue to abide by all guidelines and actions that will lift the industry higher.”

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