Chairman, Board of Directors, Access Bank Plc, Paul Usoro, has advised Nigerian youths to focus on creativity and skills acquisition rather than seeking shortcuts to wealth creation.

Mr Usoro gave the advice during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Life In My City Art Festival held in Lagos on Saturday.

The programme featured an exhibition of about 106 artworks by up-and-coming artists from across the nation.

The programme has the theme “Humanism,” which the artists depicted in their works.

Mr Usoro, who was the special guest of honour, said knowledge and skills acquired could be easily converted to wealth through hardwork.

He urged the youth not to lose hope despite the economic hardship but remain hardworking and creative.

He advised them to be committed to utilising their brains positively.

He said, “I would like to advise Nigerian youths not to lose hope; don’t look for shortcuts; all you really need to do is to use your brains. Even as an artist, you can be successful. Make yourselves knowledgeable and skilful. I am impressed with the works these young people have created here. I wish the organisers can project it to a larger audience so that it can inspire our leaders to formulate policies that will make life much better and give the young people hope.’’

Also, Executive Director, LIMCAF, Kelvin Ejiofor, said that at the end of the programme on June 22, the exhibitor of the best artwork would win N1 million.

Mr Ejiofor said that LIMCAF aimed at encouraging creativity and empowering aspiring young artists, including those with disabilities.

He stated, “LIMCAF, in its 17th edition, recorded the remarkable impact of convincing people that arts was no longer an occupation not to be proud of. It is my main source of joy helping the young people to find their feet in their chosen profession, giving them opportunity to showcase their works.’’

A member of the jury, Jekami Adetiloye, said that the exhibition was a clarion call to every Nigerian to be humane, regardless of the happenings in society.

“There seems to be the absence of humanity in society because of the current economic hardship in the country, hence the choice of the theme. The artists who have exhibited their works are suggesting ways the government can solve problems as well as sensitising Nigerians to the need to show kindness and compassion to others. This exhibition has seen our youths solving the problem of unemployment as they become relentless, hardworking and creative to have come up with unique perspectives to things happening in society. The youth are also now interested in documentation which has been a great challenge.’’

One of the artists, Praise Edward, who described herself as a digital artist and a graphic designer, said her work titled “Strong Together,” dwells on the chaotic experience of marginalised women.

She said, “I tried to picture these women coming together to build hope by way of uniting, sharing their experiences and creating better lives for themselves.’’

(NAN)