Lamido Sanusi, the 14th Emir of Kano, is expected to lead discussions on the role of the creative industry at an economic summit to be held in London in May.

Also on the panel of discussants are Segun Awolowo, former executive secretary, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, and Abike Dabiri, chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

A statement by Joseph Edgar, chairman, Duke of Shomolu Foundation, organisers of the event, indicated that Jammie Simmons of Access Bank UK and Bimbo Olashore would be on the panel.

Other discussants include industry experts like Koyinsola Ajayi and Kola Adesina.

Mr Edgar further stated that the event, scheduled to hold at Pullman Hotel in London, would focus on “the pivotal role of the creative industry in driving our emerging economic renaissance”.

“The burgeoning contributions of the creative industry, valued at over N3 trillion, continue to garner acclaim, underscoring the imperative to establish robust fiscal frameworks to effectively harness its vast benefits, particularly in revenue generation.

“Other benefits of the industry include job creation, infrastructure development, tourism, and hospitality.”

He said that the event would feature a unique trade expo showcasing Nigerian and Afro-focused businesses, offering a platform for the exhibition of their goods and services.

According to Edgar, the vision behind the economic summit is to set the stage for an annual gathering aimed at fostering robust dialogue on how the industry can continue to play a pivotal role in the ongoing renaissance of the Nigerian economy.

He emphasised that the summit would provide a unique opportunity for networking and forging economic alliances among key stakeholders.

He said that the summit would be managed by the internationally respected Itohan Barlow, on behalf of the Shomolu Foundation.

“The summit promises to be a landmark event driving forward the discourse on the transformative power of the creative industry,” he added.

Mr Edgar, in a telephone interview with journalists, said that he expected the event to create massive awareness on the potential of the creative industry.

“We expect a large event; tickets are already being sold. Investors, economists and theatregoers are already itching to be part of this activity,” he said.

(NAN)